3 Best Hiking Trails in Olathe, KS

“Ernie Miller Park & Nature Center is a 116-acre nature preserve featuring three miles of trails, a creek, a small pond for exploration, and native prairies. The total length of the trail is 5.83 km, and it takes around 1 hour and 33 minutes to complete the entire trail. The elevation gain of the trail ranges from 9 meters to 43 meters, and this trail is considered an easy route. There are both paved and unpaved trails, allowing you to go at your own pace or experience level. These hiking trails connect to Olathe bike trails west and south of the park. Ernie Miller Park & Nature Center also features live animal exhibits with critters native to Kansas, educational displays, a 500-gallon stream aquarium, and a well-stocked gift shop with books, bug-themed candy, and more.”

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“Indian Creek Trailhead offers 17 miles of paved trail, which is mainly used by visitors for walking. The total length of the trail is 22.5 miles, with an elevation gain of 110 meters. This is generally considered an easy route, and it is a point-to-point type. The total time taken to complete the trail is approximately 6 hours and 50 minutes. The trail is also great for hiking, with a large lake excellent for fishing and boating, as well as a small pond. The trail stretches from Leawood, connecting to the Blue River trails in Missouri, and ends at Hampton Park in Olathe. Indian Creek Trailhead also features open fields for Frisbee, soccer, or kite flying. There is a dog-friendly section along the trail.”

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“Prairie Center is a 300-acre preserve that features wetlands, woodlands, wildlife, trails, and educational programs. This is an ideal destination to have a pleasant and enjoyable time with family and friends. This is a 3.9-km loop trail, with an elevation gain of 50 metres. This trail is generally considered an easy route, and it takes approximately 51 minutes to complete. This is a great spot for various recreational opportunities such as birding, fishing, and hiking. Prairie Center also features numerous facilities such as picnic tables, public restrooms, kid-friendly hikes, and a wheelchair-accessible parking lot for the convenience of the visitors.”

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