Take cover on these made-in-the-shade hikes in KC
When temperatures heat up, outdoors enthusiasts must adapt and improvise.
By Roy Harryman
Publisher
Summer in Kansas City is glorious, with clouds marching across clear blue skies and green hues in all directions. But summer can also be miserable, with the sun’s rays and humidity frying us every time we step outside.
The extreme heat of the season puts nature enthusiasts in a bind. We want to enjoy the outdoors, but there’s a price to pay (though I think it’s usually worth it). I’ve written about ways to make the most of hiking in heat in this post. However, that article doesn’t give any tips on where to hike during the dog days of summer. So let me share a few of my favorite shady trails. These generally keep you clear of the sun while also avoiding tick-infested, swampy environments.
Northland
Clay County: Briarcliff Greenway, Kansas City
This paved trail is about one mile each way and is almost fully shaded. Several elevated boardwalks and wildflowers are highlights.
Platte County: Line Creek Streamway Trail, Kansas City and Riverside
Large portions (but not all) of this lengthy trail are shaded and follow a clear stream, which is home to several waterfalls.
Central
Jackson County: Lake Vista Trail, Blue Springs and Lee’s Summit
This mostly gravel trail is wide and winds around an eastern bay of Blue Springs Lake. There are a few exposed areas, but these can be avoided by choosing a different trailhead. If you want to complete the 5-mile loop, it will require walking across the completely exposed bridge on Woods Chapel Road (but this is optional).
Kansas
Little Mill Creek Streamway Trail
This three-mile out-and-back passes through six (six!) parks while sticking close to the stream that bears its name. Most of it is shrouded in a wooded canopy.
Little Mill Creek Trail, Lenexa, Kansas
Wyandotte County Lake
Nearly 20 miles of trails loop Wyandotte County Lake in the western part of the county. The vast majority is shaded by forest cover. You’re likely to spot waterfowl along your trek.
I hope you find some of these options helpful. If you can recommend others, please let me know at hike@kchiker.com. Wherever you travel, stay hydrated and take care of yourself so you can live to hike another day.