Lone Elm Park preserves prairie and pioneer stories
Two centuries ago, this Olathe location was a hotbed of pioneer activity.
Trail Lone Elm Park Trail
Overview
Olathe’s Lone Elm Park offers opportunities to walk a quiet prairie and reflect on events that sparked the nation’s westward expansion 200 years ago. A one-mile trail, with several connectors, loops the park. If you want to walk further, you can reverse the loop. Much of the area is shadeless prairie, so plan accordingly to protect yourself from sun and heat exposure. The trail is natural surface, so insect repellant is recommended.The land the park occupies was a stopping point for settlers heading west on the Santa Fe, Oregon, and California Trails. It was the site of their first night west of the Missouri River. It was first used as a pioneer campground in 1821 and continued for a few decades. Thousands of travelers, including mountain man and folk hero Kit Carson, camped here. Artifacts, including wagon ruts, remain. The creek that meanders through the park provided water for these travelers. The National Park Service recognizes it as a historic site.
Length A one-mile trail loops the park, with several connectors. If you want to walk further, you can reverse the loop.
Address and location Lone Elm Park, 21151 W 167th St, Olathe, KS 66062. The trail begins at the picnic shelter/playground area.
Conditions This is a natural surface trail that is well maintained. There are few elevation changes. Most of the trail is exposed to the sun, so plan accordingly. Inspect repellant is recommended.
Kid friendly? This trail will be impassable for strollers, but children who enjoy a walk will enjoy it. There is also a playground and restrooms.
How busy? This trail is moderately trafficked.
Pets Yes, on a leash.
Bikes Yes.
