RECOMMENDED NATURESPACES
Wanna get away, just for a moment? These places are our favorites in the KC area.
ALEX GEORGE WETLAND PARK
This spot is located just south of I-435 on Blue River Road, east of Holmes Road via Red Bridge Road, then north on Blue River Road to the park. It features walking trails, mountain biking trails, a lake, great mushrooming and foraging, with a convenient parking area set back from the street.
BIG BLUE BATTLEFIELD PARK
Located just north of 63rd Street on Hardesty Avenue, this trail winds along beside the Blue River from the northern boundary of Swope Park to a community-run urban farm site at 56th Street. Best for dog walks or a short stroll, it features the riparian beauty of the Blue River.
WATERWORKS PARK
Not only does this park provide great vistas of Kansas City and even playgrounds for the kids, the area surrounding the park is filled with nature. At a high elevation, there is good cell service reception, which makes the spot ideal for focused remote work.
OAK RIDGE PARK
On the Kansas side of the Kansas City metro, this park features forested trails that connect to the Shawnee Mission Park trail system. It's a great choice for climbers and trail runners, as well as explorers. Our favorite waterfall spot is pictured here and linked above.
ERNIE MILLER NATURE CENTER
This education center and trail system features some man-made features mixed in with natural structural trail features that make every turn a new curiosity. Located on the Kansas side in Olathe just west of Kansas Highway 7, this would be an excellent spot to bring the kids.
LAKESIDE NATURE CENTER
Back in the heart of the Kansas City metro, in the southern side of Swope Park, this education center features a trail system that explores the rocky slopes alongside the Blue River. Exciting enough for experienced hikers, climbers, also suited for a stroll, this spot is a getaway without the drive.
