While enjoying your getaway at Cedar Crest Lodge, plan some hiking near Kansas City, MO. Fully experiencing the moment when you are in nature is one of the best ways to relax and rejuvenate physically and mentally. Whether you want to call it a walk or a hike, you will treasure the details discovered along the way.
Lace up your boots or sneakers, and pick one of these hiking trails near Kansas City to increase your knowledge of flora, fauna, and even history.
Mine Creek Battlefield Interpretive Trail
20485 K 52, Pleasanton KS
A mere 7 miles from Cedar Crest Lodge is the site of the largest cavalry battle in the Civil War. It marked the end of the Confederate Campaign in Kansas and Missouri, with the capture of 1,000 rebel troops and two generals.
There are three trails, two of which have interpretive signs describing battle details. Each trail is between one and one and a half miles so you can choose your distance. They are all considered easy.
Marais des Cygnes Wildlife Reserve & Massacre Site Trail
Marais des Cygnes is French for “marsh of swans.” This name, however, originally comes from the translation of an Osage Indian name for the area, which, translated, means “where white swans are plentiful.”
Marais des Cygnes Massacre Site Trail
26426 E 1700th Rd, Pleasanton KS
This historic site commemorates the 1858 killing of 5 free-state men and wounding of five others by pro-slavery advocates. This critical event marks the timeframe known as the “Bleeding Kansas” era before its entrance into the Union in 1861.
The walking trail is a one-mile loop and is considered easy.
Marais des Cygnes Wildlife Reserve
24141 Kansas City Hwy 52, Pleasanton, KS
Just four miles from the historic site is the Marais des Cynes Wildlife Reserve. It houses 7,500 acres of wetlands, forest, and hilly terrain. The Reserve was established in 1992 to protect one of the northwest US’s most extensive bottomland hardwood forests.
There are eight hiking trails to explore, with entry points throughout the reserve. Make sure you heed warnings and prepare with protection against both ticks and chiggers.
If you are a birding fan, bring your camera and binoculars. The reserve’s river is home to many species, including trumpeter swans, pelicans, prothonotary warblers, and other shorebirds. There are also areas for hunting and fishing.
Mound City Lake Trail
11596-11100 W 600th, Blue Mound KS
For a more challenging hike, this 4-mile out-and-back trail along a picturesque 148-acre lake. The lake’s primary use is for fishing and recreation. The trail is marked with ribbons and should take about 2 hours to complete.
Pleasanton Lake Loop
Scott Rd and E 1050th Rd, Pleasanton, KS
Staying near the water cools everything on a warm summer day. Pleasanton Lake is just 6.6 miles from Cedar Crest Lodge. The trail leads around the lake, giving you a view with every step. The total loop is just under a mile.
Walking Trails On-site at Cedar Crest Lodge
It’s easy to take a walk without even getting into your car! Here at Cedar Crest Lodge, we have over four miles of trails to enjoy on the property. There are five different bodies of water to meander around, and you can even stop and do some fishing!
The best way to picture the relaxing environment is through this drone footage of the property, which shows the shady woods and the larger ponds on the trails.
Relaxing after Your Hike
After you have finished your adventure hiking near Kansas City, MO (no matter which of these trails you picked), plan some relaxation! First, take a quick trip to Skyview Farm & Creamery for well-deserved snack, then dip in the pool! Or try some de-toxifying in the wet-dry sauna. If you plan a few days in advance, you may already have a reservation for personalized spa services.
There are many choices to ensure your getaway at Cedar Crest Lodge is relaxing and rejuvenating. The atmosphere, service, and food set us apart and contribute to our Best of the Best rating through TripAdvisor.
Photo Credit: © milanvirijivec via canva.com