Hike the Violet and Red Loops at Shawnee Mission Park

Lace up your boots and head to the 1,600 acre Shawnee Mission Park, located about 25 minutes southwest of downtown Kansas City. One of the best parks in the Kansas City metro boats miles of hiking/mountain biking trails, a 120 acre lake, a marina that rents outs kayaks, paddle boards, canoes, and pedal boats, a 53 acre off-leash dog area, a disc golf course, shelters, and numerous picnic areas. 

The trailhead for the violet and red loops begins right at the north side of the lake dam. There is easy parking near the trailhead as well as restrooms. To complete both the violet and red loops, you will hike approximately 7 miles, so be sure to dress according to the weather, wear a comfortable pair of shoes, and pack plenty of water and snacks for the trail. 

If you are from the midwest, you know that most hiking trails in the area are flat dirt paths. What makes the trails at Shawnee Mission Park great is that they are designed for hiking and mountain biking, so the trails have large rocks which makes your hike more challenging and interesting. 

The trailhead has a map of the trail system, so be sure to take a picture on your cell phone to reference before you begin, and enjoy the well maintained trails!