Stay high and dry on these paved KC trails
When winter’s freeze-and-thaw hits, these routes can take you to higher, dryer ground.
By Roy Harryman
Publisher
First it snows, then freezes. Then it thaws and everything turns to slush. Most natural surface trails will either be closed or turn to a sea of slop. What’s a hiker to do?
While there’s no perfect solution, some trails offer viable options even in the sloppiest of winter weather. Caveat: Hiking on wet and cold surfaces can always result in unintended acrobatics – so use caution.
Five (usually) walkable trails in winter
As long as they’re not icy, these area trails usually provide a good winter hike.
Smithville Lake Trails
Smithville Lake, Clay County, Mo.
Smithville Lake offers 24 miles of wide, paved trails surrounding this 7,000-acre reservoir. It’s also an excellent place to spot eagles.
Lake Remembrance
Lake Remembrance, Blue Springs, Mo.
A paved 2-mile loop surrounds this suburban lake, weaving in and out of forest and near the shoreline.
Legacy Park
Legacy Park, Lee’s Summit, Mo.
Legacy Park is home to seven miles of paved trails that wind through rolling prairie. Legacy Lake is an excellent spot to take in a sunset or sunrise.
Nelson Island
Nelson Island Loop, Mill Creek Streamway, Shawnee, Kansas
The Mill Creek Streamway Trail has its northern terminus at Nelson Island on the Kansas (Kaw) River. It provides views of the river and is known to be an excellent vantage point to spot eagles.
Turkey Creek Streamway
Turkey Creek Streamway Trail
This 4-mile out-and-back trail in Merriam follows the creek that is its namesake. The stream has numerous falls, including one of the largest natural waterfalls in Kansas City at the Waterfall Park trailhead.
Of course there are plenty of other options for paved, accessible trails. But these five will give you a (hopefully) sure-footed start.
