Roanoke Park: A forested urban gem
More than two miles of trails wind through rocky bluffs and woodlands in the urban core of KC.
The 37-acre Roanoke Park has been a fixture of Kansas City, Mo., for more than 100 years. However, its mountain bike/hiking trails are a more recent addition. The park preserves some of the best of the area’s limestone outcroppings and forest – smack in the middle of urban Kansas City. If you are looking for a geographic point of reference, the park is east of the University of Kansas Medical Center and northwest of Westport. It’s a nearby and pleasant walking experience on a single-track trail. Note: Please avoid this trail when muddy to avoid injury and damage to the trail.
Length 2.5 miles.
Condition This is a well-maintained dirt pathway suitable for hiking and mountain biking. It’s hilly, but there are no extreme elevation changes. The ground is rocky, so if you struggle with balance, bring a walking stick.
Kid Friendly? This is an excellent trail for children to enjoy nature. However, they’ll need to walk or be carried. In addition, there are several steep hills and sharp drop-offs, so parents will want to be mindful of small children and cliffsides.
Address Park at the community center at 3601 Roanoke Rd, Kansas City, Mo., 64111.
Pets Yes, on a leash, unless otherwise designated.
Busy? This is a moderately-trafficked trail.
