Where to Take a Cool Winter Hike in KC

In Kansas City, winter is anything but predictable. The temperatures could be below freezing one day and sixty degrees the next. On the days that it is warmer, why not take the family out on a winter hike? Exercise and fresh air might just be the perfect antidote for those winter blues. So, load up the kids and make sure that reusable water bottle is full because we have an excellent list of winter hiking spots right here in KC.

4 Winter Hiking Spots in Kansas City

Get out of the house and check out these beautiful hiking trails around the city.

1. Weston Bend State Park

This may be a bit out of the way for those that do not live in the Northland, but it is definitely worth the drive. Weston Bend State Park has a beautiful 3 mile, paved hiking trail with unpaved trails branching off along the way. Weston is far enough outside of the city that you won’t have to worry about noise pollution or obstructed views – you can enjoy this scenic hiking trail the way nature intended.

There is also a ton of wildlife to see along this trail; making it a perfect opportunity to teach little ones about appreciating nature and respecting animals in their natural environment.

Make a day trip out of your adventure and visit some of the cool shops and boutiques in downtown Weston after your hike!

2. Shawnee Mission Park

If you want to stick a little closer to the city, we highly suggest taking an easy hike at Shawnee Mission Park. The trail is paved, so it is easy for strollers and younger children to maneuver. This 7-mile loop is one of our favorite spots to take winter hikes.

3. White Tail Trail – Parkville Nature Sanctuary

This 3-mile trail has an absolutely stunning waterfall and is the perfect nature getaway – that is still close to the city. We love this trail, however, because of the waterfall and beautiful scenery this trail can get a little busy when temperatures warm up. Winter is the perfect time to go and enjoy this trail – since it isn’t peak season you may even have the trail all to yourselves!

4. The Ernie Miller Nature Center

The Ernie Miller Nature Center is a fantastic place to take the kiddos when the weather is being agreeable – especially if you and your family prefer a more rustic hiking experience. Most of the trails here are unpaved, but there are few steep drop-offs and large rocks around. If your kids are a bit older and can handle a slightly challenging hike, the Ernie Miller Nature Center is a fantastic KC spot.

Hiking is a great mood booster and is a fantastic way for your kiddos to release some of that built up energy from being indoors all winter. Take advantage of the tolerable winter days. Spend those days it is randomly over fifty degrees outside enjoying one of these awesome hiking trails.

Where are your favorite winter hiking spots in Kansas City? Let us know in the comments below!

Click here to view our full list of Kansas City nature centers.