James A. Reed Wildlife Area: A haven for nature lovers
James A. Reed Wildlife Area, Lee’s Summit, Mo.
Wander 3,000 acres of lakes, streams and pastoral beauty.
Trail James A. Reed Wildlife area
James A. Reed Wildlife Area preserves 3,000 acres of pastoral beauty in the midst of a rapidly developing area in Lee’s Summit. With 12 lakes and abundant wildlife, this refuge is a delight for nature lovers. The park is dotted with ponds, forest groves and rows of crops. Shawnee Trace Natural Trail follows East Branch Big Creek and rises above gentle bluffs (see “conditions” information below). James A. Reed is ripe for the wanderer. In addition to the designated nature trail, there are miles of mowed multi-use trails throughout the park. These are the heart of the nature refuge, bringing you close to ducks, great blue heron, deer and abundant wildflowers.
Length 2.4-mile Shawnee Trace Trail; in addition there are miles of multi-use trails.
Address 12405 S,E, Ranson Road, Lee's Summit, MO 64082
Conditions The Shawnee Trail is a natural surface trail with few elevation changes, except for a brief rise over some rock outcroppings. The trail is poorly marked and minimally maintained. In summer, it’s nearly impassable due to spider webs, overgrowth and poison ivy. Get a map (see below), bring a compass and water and head out when the bugs and poison ivy dissipate. There is beauty to be found here, for sure, but you won’t really know your way around until your second or third trip. An alternative is to follow the many miles of multi-use trails that traverse the park (see the map below). Multi-use means that part of the trail is open to horses. The multi-use trails are generally mowed paths through fields and forest.
Kid and stroller friendly? Kids must be prepared to walk for at least an hour on the nature trail. The park is not conducive to strollers.
Conservation area
Unlike other parks, conservation areas permit hunting. Be aware of hunting seasons.
Pets Prohibited except hunting dogs during hunting season.
Bikes Prohibited on the hiking trail; allowed on roads and multi-use trails.
How busy? This is a light-to-moderately trafficked area.
Pets Yes, on a leash (unless otherwise designated).
Bikes Prohibited.’
