Trail Liberty Bend Trail.
Overview
The Liberty Bend Trail provides a unique degree of intimate access to the Missouri River. Often, we’re left to view the “Big Muddy” in ugly industrial settings along with cacophonous traffic noise. Although the river is always a spectacle, this sort of context does little to bring us closer to nature. But here, at Liberty Bend Conservation Area and the adjacent LaBenite Park, it’s just you and the Missouri. Unless you’re adventurous and boat in, you begin the trail at the east end of the LaBenite parking lot. Then you follow a two-mile loop through bottomland forest populated with giant Cottonwoods and Black Willow trees. Unusual for Missouri, the path beneath your feet is sand. The river is home to eagles and waterfowl and the 140-acres of forest host the usual Missouri critters. The shoreline is strewn with gravel bars, allowing you to walk a few hundred feet out in the river’s channel. You’ll be passed by an occasional barge and tugboat. Although the site isn’t far from industry and population, you wouldn’t know except for the sight of the highway bridge to the west and the sound of trains to the south. Liberty Bend is a special place.

Address and location 3117 North, Route 291, Sugar Creek, Mo., 64058; LaBenite Park (the trail head), borders the Missouri River and Route 291. It is south, and across the river, from Liberty, Mo.
Conditions This trail is completely level but its surface is dirt and sand. It’s mostly shaded. Warning: When weather is warm, mosquitos swarm here.
Kid friendly? The trail is flat, but requires some trudging due to its sandy surface. Parents should be mindful of water safety since the river is at hand for half of the trail’s length.
How busy? This trail, and LaBenite Park, receive moderate traffic.
Pets Yes. On a leash.
Bikes Prohibited.
Official Website

Liberty Bend Conservation Area

Blue Springs Lake North Shore Trail