Just because you live in Kansas City doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a taste of the wild. Dispersed through the city are gorgeous trails that will make you feel like you’re deep in the woods. Here are our favorite spots to go for a hike with our favorite canines.
The 10 Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in Kansas City
1. Line Creek Trail
| ️ Address: | Line Creek Trail, Kansas City, MO 64151 |
| Open Times: | 6 AM to 8 PM |
| Cost: | Free |
- Nice, paved trail (great for pushing a stroller)
- Tranquil scenery with waterfalls and wildlife
- A few hills but a mostly smooth path
- Lots of runners and cyclists, so opt for a shorter leash
- Bring poop bags
2. Platte Landing Park Loop
| ️ Address: | 300 S Main St, Parkville, MO 64152 |
| Open Times: | 5 AM to 12 AM |
| Cost: | Free |
- Beautiful river walk
- An enclosed dog park nearby for off-leash fun
- Handicap parking available
- Public restrooms available
- Picnic tables nearby for afternoon picnics
3. Blue River Parkway Trails
| ️ Address: | 11500–11692 Blue River Rd, Kansas City, MO 64137 |
| Open Times: | 6 AM to 10 PM |
| Cost: | Free |
- Remember to pick up your trash
- Dogs can be off-leash in some areas
- Nice combo of paved and natural path
- A mix of isolated forests and open public parks
- Mostly shaded
4. Swope Park Mountain Bike Trail
| ️ Address: | 6599 5601 Oakwood Rd, Kansas City, MO 64132 |
| Open Times: | 5 AM to Midnight |
| Cost: | Free |
- A bit muddy—bring baby wipes or towels
- Nearby creek for a fun way to cool down
- Beautiful and serene for a quiet getaway
- Remember to pick up your trash
- Watch out for mountain bikers
5. Wudchuk Run Trail Head
| ️ Address: | 6304 Oakwood Rd #6000, Kansas City, MO 64132 |
| Open Times: | 5 AM to Midnight |
| Cost: | Free |
- Connected to Swope Park Bike Trail for extra miles
- Can be hiked in less than an hour
- Dogs can be off-leash in some areas
- Trail isn’t well marked, but paths are easy to see
- Mostly easy terrain with some technical spots
6. Hidden Valley Natural Area Loop
| ️ Address: | 4029 Bellaire Ave, Kansas City, MO 64117 |
| Open Times: | 5 AM to Midnight |
| Cost: | Free |
- Easy terrain with some minor hills
- Very muddy but well-maintained path
- Lots of bugs during the summer
- Heavily shaded so you and your pup can stay cool
- No benches or trash cans
7. Rancho D-Lux Loop
| ️ Address: | Kansas City, MO |
| Open Times: | 5 AM to Midnight |
| Cost: | Free |
- Dogs can be off-leash in some areas
- Bring a compass—markings are vague
- Some sections can be noisy from the nearby highway
- A bit rocky but mostly an easy trail
- You may have to cross two creeks; bring extra socks!
8. Rock Island Spur Pleasant Hill Trailhead
| ️ Address: | MO-58, Pleasant Hill, MO 64080 |
| Open Times: | 7 AM to 6 PM |
| Cost: | Free |
- Long-distance hike—bring extra dog food
- Part of the trail makes you walk Highway 58
- Minimal elevation
- Well-maintained, shaded path
- Bring your own water
9. Chimney’s Trail Loop in Cave Spring Park
| ️ Address: | 8701 E Gregory Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64133 |
| Open Times: | 9 AM to 6 PM |
| Cost: | Free |
- Can be hiked on your lunch break
- Very muddy—bring baby wipes and towels
- Trails aren’t well marked
- Lovely scenery sprinkled with historical facts
- Full of wildlife
10. Happy Rock Trail in Happy Rock Park
| ️ Address: | Happy Rock Trail, Kansas City, MO 64119 |
| Open Times: | 11 AM to 10 PM |
| Cost: | Free |
- Paved path is perfect for strollers and wheelchairs
- Takes less than an hour
- Garbage cans and benches provided
- Watch out for bikers
- Not for those looking for a challenge
Final Thoughts
Now, you have 10 new trails to try with your pup. And the best part is that they’re all free for you to enjoy. Just remember to clean up after your dog and bring extra water and food. Are you ready to put your hiking boots on?
Featured Image Credit: Roman Seliutin, Shutterstock
Contents
- The 10 Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in Kansas City
- 1. Line Creek Trail
- 2. Platte Landing Park Loop
- 3. Blue River Parkway Trails
- 4. Swope Park Mountain Bike Trail
- 5. Wudchuk Run Trail Head
- 6. Hidden Valley Natural Area Loop
- 7. Rancho D-Lux Loop
- 8. Rock Island Spur Pleasant Hill Trailhead
- 9. Chimney’s Trail Loop in Cave Spring Park
- 10. Happy Rock Trail in Happy Rock Park
- Final Thoughts
