Buckle in for a Tour of Clay County Lakes and Falls
It’s only 30 minutes (driving) from end to end but can easily turn into a full day of hiking.
By Roy Harryman
Publisher
We’re all short on time and savor every moment we can break away and enjoy the great outdoors. So when you can “bundle” several hikes near each other, it’s a bonus. I recently traveled from east to west in Clay County, Mo., visiting Watkins Mill State Park, Tryst Falls and finishing up at Smithville Lake. These destinations are only 30 minutes drive time from start to finish, with the waterfall right in the middle. It’s a scenic trifecta:
Watkins Woolen Mill State Park
Tryst Falls
Smithville Lake
Of course you can reverse this order if you’re coming from the west.
The route, from start to finish
Stop 1: Smithville Lake
Smithville Lake is a hiking powerhouse, with more than 50 miles of trails for walking, biking and horseback riding. Although there are many great trails, I began at the Cabin Fever trailhead. From there, you can walk as long as you like because it continues for 17 miles! This paved trail follows the shoreline and provides excellent views of the lake. It’s short on shade, though, so plan accordingly.
Stop 2: Tryst Falls
Tryst Falls is arguably the most scenic natural waterfall in the Kansas City area. There is one entrance, but two parking/picnic areas. The eastern parking area provides easier access to the creek and falls. Take a moment to relax and reboot at this natural landmark.
Stop 3: Watkins Woolen Mill State Park.
Leave your car at this parking lot, then cross the street for the 3.7-mile paved loop trail. There is a small, seasonal waterfall and pool along the trail on the west side of the lake. More about Watkins Mill State Park.
The historic mansion and residence at Watkins Mill also worth seeing and will get you a few thousand more steps (if you need them). There’s also an informative visitors center (with indoor plumbing!).
Carpe diem!
Roy Harryman is the publisher of Kansas City Hiker.