Wyandotte County Lake Park Entices With Nature Adventures in Kansas City, Kansas

 

Wyandotte County Lake immediately charmed us upon first sight. The large 400-acre lake invites both exploration and moments of contemplation. The preserve provides such a beautiful nature haven for all to enjoy on a visit to Kansas City, Kansas. We admired it so much that we visited twice during our recent adventure.

Picturesque views of the 400-acre Wyandotte County Lake invite contemplation and relaxation.

As we began to round the lake on the way towards hiking trails, we noted its size as well as the wealth of waterfowl enjoying the banks. Canada geese ambled along the shore -- both adults and their fuzzy little chicks. We nearly forgot that we were looking for a spot to hike as we admired the serene lake. We even spotted a great blue heron in one of the lake's curves as we continued our drive.

Natural trails were rocky in spots and led us through a dense woodlands.

Soon, we found our hiking spot. We hiked on hilly, natural trails enjoying intermittent peeks at the lake. The trails could be a bit rocky in spots, but the joyous leafy greens of the trees and the gentle ripples of the lake were worth it. Taking time to slowdown and enjoy our surroundings, we spotted red Russula emetica mushrooms on the forest floor.

Important Fact: Russula emetica mushrooms are poisonous.

Russula emetica mushrooms with red caps on the forest floor
 at Wyandotte County Lake Park.

While hiking, we could hear a team rowing on the lake. Since summer has just really begun, it gave me those summer feels! Through frames of verdant leaves of all shapes, we soaked in views of the blue lake. I became totally enamored with discovering every little viewing alcove!

Interesting Fact About Wyandotte County Lake - The lake actually is manmade and was a WPA project. One reason for creating the lake was to address drought.

Peeking at Wyandotte County Lake as it gently ripples through a leafy natural frame.

Approximately 19 miles of trails within the preserve leave much for hiking fans to uncover! We only hiked about an hour, so there are so many more trails for us to explore. If you are in the area in the fall, I would definitely check Wyandotte County Lake Park for fall colors. Fall hikes must be magical here!

Wyandotte County Lake Park holds 1,500 acres of treasures for nature lovers. The preserve is home to a marina with boating and fishing opportunities available. There also is a kids' fishing pond. Additional amenities include an off-leash dog area and trails for horseback riding. An archery range, mountain bike trails, and shared bike and hiking trails add more adventure. Trails are paved and natural. During our exploration, we spotted plenty of visitors enjoying nature just relaxing with a view or having a picnic.

Chunks of rock make a stretch of trail in the woodlands
of Wyandotte County Lake Park a little challenging.

F.L. Schlagle Library and Environmental Center -- one of only two environmental public libraries in the nation -- is located within the park. The library offers a variety of nature programming both at its location and as outreach. Additionally, there is a self guided nature trail, butterfly garden, and bird feeding area. The library house a variety of environmental resources as well.

Our adventures to Wyandotte County Lake Park offered us very welcome time unwinding in nature. We savored both a rugged hike and taking in peaceful views of the lake. If you are visiting the Kansas City area, I recommend carving out a nice chunk of time to explore the preserve.