This suburban walk wows with water and wildlife

The sculpture and flower garden is a highlight of a walk down Lakewood Boulevard in Lee’s Summit, Mo.

A walk along Lee’s Summit’s Lakewood Boulevard brings close encounters with nature.

It would be a stretch to call this a “hike,” so we won’t. But it’s a beautiful walk on a public sidewalk, nonetheless. A trek along Lakewood Boulevard, in northern Lee’s Summit, brings you to the shore of both neighborhood lakes. In the middle is the Lakewood East Marina. Sunrises and sunsets are stunning along this route. Depending on the weather, you may see fog rising off of the water. Great blue herons, and other birds of prey, hang out here. So do mallards, geese and other waterfowl. You may also encounter kayakers, boaters and folks casting in a fishing line. The west lake includes a beautiful sculpture and flower garden at the point Lakewood Boulevard bridges over a creek. Remember that, although sidewalks and streets are public, this is a private neighborhood. Please respect parking rules and private property while enjoying this scenic area.

Street parking is not allowed on the dam, though some street parking is available in the area. The address of the marina, which sits right in the middle of the walk, is 4651 NE Lakewood Blvd, Lee's Summit, MO 64064.

Area Map

This “hike” is walking the sidewalk along Lakewood Boulevard in the Lakewood subdivision of Lee’s Summit, Mo. The most scenic section follows the lake above the dam, providing views of the water on one side and forest on the other.