Jerry Smith Park and Saeger Woods Conservation Area
Jerry Smith Park and Trail, Kansas City, Mo.
Pioneer-era prairie is preserved in this Kansas City park and trail.
Trail Jerry Smith Park Trail.
Overview Jerry Smith Park is home to the largest remaining tract of native prairie on the Missouri side of the Kansas City area. It’s the site of intensive restoration efforts that have been going on for decades. Walk the winding trail through the 360-acre park and your senses will be deluged by colorful wildflowers and prairie plants of all sorts. Birds, even those sighted rarely in the city, make this area home (in addition to deer and the other usual suspects). Flower fans will be delighted to know that Jerry Smith Park contains Missouri’s largest population of eared false foxglove. In addition to prairie, the park contains forested groves and a 3-acre lake at its north end. Jerry Smith Park borders the 20-acre Missouri Saeger Woods Conservation Area.
Length 1.4 miles. You can accumulate more distance by repeating loops or wandering the park.
Address and location 139th St. and Prospect Ave., Kansas City, Mo., 64146. The park is in South Kansas City, near Martin City.
Conditions This is a crushed gravel trail with few elevation changes. It is mostly unshaded, so take precautions for sun, heat and wind.
Kid friendly? This gentle trail is perfect for small children to walk. Strollers may hit a few bumps. Native grasses are often 6-feet tall, so insect repellent may be warranted if you (or your kids) choose to wander off trail.
How busy? This is a moderately trafficked trail.
Pets Yes. On a leash.
Bikes Non-motorized bicycles are allowed.
