9 Best Hikes In Kansas

We hear it often that Kansas is flat, boring, and uninspiring. And let us be honest. There is some grain of truth in these accusations. But again, it is just a grain — and if you may, a case of painting the Sunflower State with a broad brush. Parts of Kansas are hilly, especially on the eastern side; where the Ozarks of southeast Kansas stage a geographical drama that will make you wonder if you are still in Kansas. Here is the truth no one will tell you, if you know where to look, Kansas is as much a hiker’s dream destination — as any other state in the country. Not convinced? Discover the best hikes in Kansas you will want to drop everything and lace up for immediately.

Castle Rock

Those hiking Castle Rock for the first time may find it astonishing that this treasure resides in Kansas. This rock formation, a remarkable geographical spectacle that attracts numerous hikers, is truly awe-inspiring. Referred to as the Sentinel of the Plains, Castle Rock is one of the Eight Wonders of Kansas.

Visiting this site feels like entering an era when Native Americans roamed the land hunting buffalo in what was once a harsh, untamed wilderness. Situated between Quinter and Collyer, about 12 miles south of Interstate 70, it is accessible via well-maintained gravel roads suitable for any vehicle. The attraction is located on private property, where the owners allow visitors.

he honeycombed rock formations rise up to 70 feet above the ground, breaking the monotony of the surrounding terrain. The trail is approximately 2.3 miles roundtrip and is designated as easy.

Wyandotte County Lake Loop Trail

Considered “Moderately Challenging,” the Wyandotte County Lake Loop Trail is a Kansas treasure worth exploring. As a loop trail, you won’t have to hike back the same way, ensuring an engaging experience. Situated approximately 22 miles from Kansas City, this location is ideal for those seeking a quick escape from the city for an invigorating adventure.

The trail winds along the shores of Wyandotte County Lake and traverses the forested hills surrounding this picturesque area. First-time visitors should prepare for steep ascents and descents — along with numerous rocky sections — as this trail is not particularly suited for beginners. Nonetheless, the scenic beauty offers a delightful visual experience.

Violet And Red Trail At Shawnee Mission Park

Shawnee Mission Park features a sandy area that Money Magazine once recognized as Kansas's best beach. While the park’s highlight is its scenic 120-acre lake and award-winning beach, it also boasts over 10 trails that hikers will enjoy exploring. The standout route, according to AllTrails, is the Shawnee Mission Park Violet and Red Trail, which attracts the most visitors in the state. Prepare for a challenging adventure here—wear sturdy shoes to avoid slipping and rolling. This loop trail takes about 5-6 hours to complete, particularly if you want to explore both sides, including the Orange side.

Konza Prairie Nature Trail

As its name suggests, the Konza Prairie Nature Trail spans over 3,400 hectares of wind-swept prairies, located about 9 miles south of Manhattan, Kansas. This hike presents a moderate challenge and will especially test the legs of beginners. However, the rewards of the experience are remarkable. You may get a close encounter with wildlife, particularly the many white-tailed deer and turkeys that inhabit the stunning hills and the tallgrass prairies characterizing this vital ecological landscape. The trail extends approximately 2.7 miles and guides you through several underrated landmarks, including the Hokanson Homestead, constructed in 1878. Be sure to bring your camera, as the views from the elevated overlook may become some of your most cherished memories.

Elk River Trail

There is a reason many hikers swear Elk River Trail is the best hiking trail in the Sunflower State. This is a trail that will show you a side of Kansas you never knew existed. Located about 8 miles from Independence, Kansas, Elk River Trail is a 15-mile trail that begins at Elk City Lake, a blue-space gem that boasts more than 50 miles of shoreline. It then meanders along the waists and tops of cliffs and through wooded tracks before crossing over the banks of the Elk River in a rollercoaster that will transport you through a whirlpool of emotions. The hike will see you climb hills that rise up to 200 feet above the surrounding area and which afford spectacular views of the cascading terrain. You can start at the trail near a bridge over the Elk River — or at the east trailhead, which begins right on the lake.

South Shore East Loop At Shawnee Mission Park

Though some parts of this 3 miles trail can be quite rocky, South Shore East Loop is mostly an easy hike. Considered by AllTrails the second-best in the Shawnee Mission Park — after the Violet and Red Trail — South Shore East Loop is, however, almost all unpaved and hence, can get muddy when it rains. But when the weather does not act up, this heavily wooded trail opens up to heart-melting views of the lake and will not fail to cast a spell on any adventurer. Then again, this trail is often uncrowded, peaceful, and quiet; except for the occasional roar of the model airplanes that sometimes fly overhead and interrupt the delicious quiet of the area. And when the redbuds bloom, South Shore East Loop is an eye candy, no one will want to ignore.

Tomahawk Creek Trail

This popular, point-to-point trail is located about 5 miles from Leawood, an upscale neighborhood that plays host to the largest Methodist church in the United States. If you want to complete this trail, you should set aside about 3 hours and 20 minutes to cover the trail’s approximately 11 miles. Since this is an easy route, you can bring the whole family on board, including your furry family member — although you will have to keep it on a leash. As to its accessibility, Tomahawk Creek Trail boasts paved trails you can easily walk, bike, or drive on. Then again, this trail is dotted with benches and picnic tables and is as shady as everyone would want a trail to be.

Lake Lenexa

Hiking trails that meander along the picturesque edges of lakes, many will confess, are among the most inspiring. And such is the trail around Lake Lenexa near the town of Lenexa. Most of the trail is shaded and can provide much-needed shelter from the blistering sun. This is a loop trail and covers a distance of about 2 miles. If you want to complete the trail, you should set aside between 40 and 60 minutes. Otherwise, this is an easy trail that can make for a perfect all-family adventure. As to its accessibility, the Lake Lenexa Trail is half paved; half gravel and therefore does not feature seriously muddy patches that often come with sliding, dancing, or even floating. Peel your eyes for the herons that often circle the skies above the trail.

Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park

For starters, Little Rock Badlands State Park plays host to the largest expanse of exposed Niobrara Chalk formation in the Sunflower State. They are also hands-down the most dramatic. The park is a unique habitat for birds such as ferruginous hawks, which, together with the Rough-legged Hawks, are the only American hawks to have feathered legs all the way down to their toes. There are two trails in this park, the Overlook Trail and the Life on the Rocks Trail. For the best views, we will have to place our bet on the 2.4-mile Life on the Rocks Trail. The view of the badlands and the vast emptiness all around are awe-inspiring. While you won’t be able to go down among the badlands the views from above are nearly as good. As a heads-up, however, there is no shade here. So carry plenty of water.

The Takeaway

Forget about the ignorant stereotypes. To those who know how to look, Kansas and hiking can actually be in the same sentence. The Sunflower State is home to certain dramatic natural features that will tickle your heart and make you feel you are in a different country. If you want to experience the state through its best hiking trails, you cannot go wrong with such underrated gems as Castle Rock, Wyandotte County Lake Loop, Konza Prairies, and Tomahawk Creek Trails — among several others.