You’re only 3 hours (or less) from serenity!
As temperatures cool and leaves change colors, plan an ideal day trip with our free guide.
Ready for a one-day inflation busting vacation? We’ve logged lots of miles exploring the best of the Midwest. Here we highlight the “greatest hits” within a 3-hour radius of Downtown KC. Got favorites we haven’t listed? Let us know!
Best fall views: Indian Cave State Park
Indian Cave State Park, near Shubert, Neb. It’s directly west of Rockport, Mo.
Fall colors abound in the forested bluffs of this 3,000-acre Nebraska park, which is across the Missouri River from Rockport, Mo. More than 20 miles of trails wind through the Loess hills and bottomland forest. Bluffs rise 300 feet above the river, creating some steep hikes for those who want to “summit” the park. Primitive and group camping are available.
Best wild west in the Midwest: Kanopolis State Park
Kanopolis State Park, near Salina, is the gateway to the Wild West.
Kanopolis State Park, near Salina, Kan., is where the Wild West meets the plains. Set in the Smoky Hills, Kanopolis is marked by red sandstone outcroppings, overhangs and secluded canyons. Clear prairie streams trickle toward Kanopolis Lake. The place retains an aura of Western history: It was originally populated by Native American tribes of Pawnee, Cheyenne, Apache and Kiowa. They camped in these canyons and left petroglyphs describing their life hunting game. You’ll find 30 miles of trails in the park, plus other local attractions including Mushroom Rock State Park.
Best backpacking, camping experience: Elk River Trail
The Elk River Trail is a rugged, 15-mile adventure near Independence, Kan.
The Elk River Trail doesn’t seem like something you’d find in south central Kansas. Or, if you believe popular lore, anywhere in Kansas. But we’re richer because it’s here. This 15-mile trail is in the vicinity of Independence, Kan. It begins at Elk City Lake and winds along clifftops, through ravines and forest and finally traverses the banks of the Elk River. There’s not a dull moment. The highlands, known as the Chautauqua Hills, rise up to 200 feet above the surrounding area. The trail is open to camping and backpacking year round.
Runners Up
It’s always hard to nail down just a few recommendations when there are so many good ones. We invite you to visit our full Day Trips section. But until then, here are three more of our favorite nearby hikes.
Below, from top to bottom, are: