3 Best Hiking Trails in Independence, MO

“Little Blue Trace County Park spans a total length of 15.5 miles and is considered an easy hiking route with an elevation gain of 331 feet. It is an excellent location for hiking, walking, and running. The trail features four shelters, 30 picnic tables, and a softball field. Additionally, there is an 11-mile bicycling trail. The trail offers various amenities, including bicycle paths, a lake or river, shade areas, sports areas, grass, walking trails, paved bike trails, parking, picnic areas, picnic shelters, and picnic tables. You can access the park through several entrances: Blue Mills Road, Ripley Junction, Bundschu Road, Necessary Road at R.D. Mize Road, Hartman Center at Heritage Park, and Phelps Road Trail Head.”

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“George Owens Nature Park spans 86 acres of land and is an ideal spot for is ideal for hiking, walking, and fishing. The trail takes approximately 22 minutes to complete the trail, which is about 8 feet wide on average and has an elevation gain of 68 feet. There are interesting attractions along the way, such as a 150-gallon turtle enclosure, a 75-gallon freshwater aquarium display, and water fountains that are available in warmer seasons. While dogs are permitted on the trail, they must be kept on a leash at all times. Additionally, George Owens Nature Park is wheelchair-friendly and is open year-round. It's a beautiful spot to visit at any time of the year.”

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“Landahl Mountain Bike Park has two easy hiking trails considered an easy route trail. The elevation gain of the trail is 177 feet to 501 feet. The total area of the trail is 1397 acres. The trail is popular with mountain bikers, and this park includes many miles of trails designated for bikers of all levels and skills. Landahl Mountain Bike Park's equestrian trail access and trailer parking are south of Argo Road, opposite the Lake City shooting range. The trail has features like Archery, Baseball / Softball, Bike Trail, Campgrounds, Equestrian Trails, Picnic Shelters, and Picnic Tables.”

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