Missouri's Bothwell Lodge State Historic Site is also a hiking destination.

A wealthy attorney left a legacy of architecture and parkland near Sedalia, Mo.

Trails Radiant Trail and Stonyridge Trail at Bothwell Lodge State Historic Site.

Overview
At first glance, Bothwell Lodge State Historic Site isn’t a place you’d expect to find trails. Yet although trails aren’t the centerpiece, they are a natural complement given that the site’s founder loved nature.

Sedalia, Mo., isn’t known for scenery (sorry Sedalia!), but this historic site upends that idea. The stunning 31-room, 12,000-square-foot Bothwell Lodge sits atop a limestone bluff overlooking a wooded valley.

It was the project of a local attorney named John Homer Bothwell. The home grew, was expanded over three decades, and completed in 1929. It was built from stone quarried on the property and most of its original furnishings remain. The state acquired it in 1974. To learn more about the structure, an hour-long tour is available by reservation. (If you are interested in a tour, make sure they are scheduled for the day and time you’re visiting.)

The area includes two trails that weave for more than three miles through about 250 acres of hilly woodland. Highlights include bird habitat, rock outcroppings and historic structures. Bothwell is one of the state’s least-visited parks, so it’s likely you’ll have the trail to yourself. Caution: Although the trail is fairly easy, you’ll experience numerous rocks and roots and will need to be mindful of your steps.

Length Radiant Trail = 3.2 miles; Stonyridge Trail = 0.5 miles.
Address and location
Bothwell Lodge State Historic Site, 19349 Bothwell State Park Rd, Sedalia, MO 65301
Distance The historic site is about 90 minutes from Downtown Kansas City.
Conditions This is a natural surface trail with moderate elevation changes. The Stonyridge Trail’s surface includes loose rock and roots, so be mindful of slipping.
Kid friendly? Children will need to be able to walk the trails; they’re not stroller friendly.
How busy? You’ll probably have it to yourself.
Pets Yes, on a leash.
Official website