Hartman Memorial Park & Winterset Nature Area
Charles David Hartman Memorial Park and Winterset Nature Area, Lee’s Summit, Mo.
In Lee’s Summit, the Ozarks break in at this small but diverse park.
Trail Charles David Hartman Memorial Park and Winterset Nature Area
Overview
At first glance, Hartman Memorial Park looks like its set in the Missouri Ozarks. But, fortunately, it’s set in the heart of Lee’s Summit for the public to enjoy. The defining attribute of the park is Cedar Creek, which has carved its way through 50-foot-tall limestone bluffs. The result are cliffs, gigantic boulders and waterfalls. A trail follows the stream, but you’ll see many people exploring off trail. The north side of the park offers a pleasant excursion through grassland and forested groves. Trail extensions lead to an adjacent neighborhood a bluff overlooking the park. As a bonus, the Rock Island Rail Trail’s main trail head is also in Hartman Park.Length The official trail itself is only about three-fourths of a mile long. However, an extension allows walkers to rise above the park following the limestone bluffs that are its backbone. In addition, Hartman Memorial Park is the premiere trail head for the Rock Island Rail Trail – which will ultimately be 17 miles long – and cuts through the park. It’s the best location to park, walk and explore Kansas City’s premiere rail-to-trail pathway.
Address and location
700 S.W. Pryor Road , Lee’s Summit, Mo., 64081
Conditions The portion of the trail bordering the baseball fields is paved. The Winterset Nature Area trail and the trail extensions are surfaced with wood chips. The Rock Island Rail Trail is gravel.
Kid friendly? The paved trail is flat and easy. Trails in the adjacent Winterset Natural Area are made of wood chips. While children may enjoy playing in the stream, don’t leave them unsupervised. The Rock Island Rail Trail (gravel surface) is often busy so parents should be mindful of bike traffic.
How busy? The park can be busy and the parking lot can fill up on picturesque days. Choosing a morning visit or an off-season day will provide more seclusion.
Pets Yes, on a leash (unless otherwise designated)
Bikes Non-motorized bicycles are permitted on the Rock Island Rail Trail.
