The best walks and hikes in Miami County
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Hikes in Miami County explore a landscape of rolling hills, woodlands, and open prairies characteristic of eastern Kansas. The region's trails often follow creek beds and pass through dedicated nature reserves and arboretums. Most routes feature gentle elevation changes, making them accessible for a wide range of hikers.
Best hiking trails in Miami County
- The most popular hiking route is Big Bull Creek Park loop — Edgerton, a 8.7 mile (13.9 km) trail that takes about 3 hours 37…
Last updated: October 11, 2026
1.01km
00:15
0m
0m
Embark on an easy hike along the Big Bull Creek Paved Loop, a gentle route spanning just 0.6 miles (1.0 km). This accessible trail features a minimal elevation gain of…
1
hikers
10.8km
02:50
90m
110m
Hike the moderate 6.7-mile Hillsdale Lake Red Trail North Loop through diverse woodlands and prairies with lake views.
4.0
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21
hikers
6.13km
01:37
50m
50m
The Overland Park Arboretum Bluff Loop offers a delightful escape into nature, blending serene woodlands with unique geological features. As you follow the path, you'll discover impressive limestone bluffs that…
7
hikers
3.98km
01:04
40m
40m
The Rocky Ridge and Bluff Loop Trail offers a delightful escape into nature, winding through a surprising variety of ecosystems for its length. You'll experience everything from mature old-growth forests…
5
hikers
13.9km
03:37
90m
90m
Hike the moderate 8.6-mile Big Bull Creek Park Loop through diverse ecosystems, bluffs, and varied terrain in Johnson County.
6
hikers
7.00km
01:50
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
1.92km
00:30
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
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5
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Miami County
Tips from the Community
nice park with a variety of links of trails including mountain biking paved hiking and grass trails nice picnic shelters too and a natural playground
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Big Bull Creek Park is a popular nature park in Edgerton. There are picnic areas, multiple miles of hiking trails and restrooms.
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If you are coming from the Cottonwood Trail, you can choose to continue onto the Bluff Loop Trail, which connects to the West Loop Trail and Rocky Ridge Trail. If you are coming from the Bluff Loop Trail, here you can hop on the Cottonwood Trail which will lead you to the entrance of the park. Both are very scenic routes.
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The Cottonwood Trail, a half-mile mulched pathway, invites you to enjoy a peaceful stroll on this easy, well-marked trail with great views. This trail connects you to several other loop trails in the park.
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At this junction, you'll have the choice to continue along the Bluff Loop Trail or transition to the Rocky Ridge Trail. Both trails are adorned with plentiful hickory trees.
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The Rocky Ridge Trail leads you through a cedar forest and dense groves of redbud and hickory trees. It's like stepping into a fairy tale as you wander through this lush wooded area. This trail also connects to the Bluff Loop Trail on both ends, providing a one-mile journey through the forest.
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Margaret's Pond features highly accessible paved trails through numerous garden exhibits around the arboretum. There is a boardwalk, amphitheater, and many benches from which to sit and admire the pond and the gardens.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any family-friendly hikes in Miami County?
Yes, Miami County has several great options for families.
Garbry Big Woods Reserve features a 0.7-mile boardwalk loop that is perfect for all ages. Many parks also have initiatives like the 'Family Nature Quest' and natural play areas. For a specific short and easy walk, consider the Camp Branch Glade Trail.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails?
Dogs are welcome in many of Miami County's parks, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. It's always a good idea to check the specific regulations for the park you plan to visit, as some sensitive nature preserves may have restrictions to protect wildlife.
Where can I find hiking trails with waterfalls?
The most popular spot for waterfalls is Charleston Falls Preserve, which is home to a 37-foot waterfall often called a 'Miniature Niagara'. You can also see a waterfall at Greenville Falls State Scenic River & Nature Preserve. Keep in mind that some smaller waterfalls, like the one at Farrington Reserve, may only flow seasonally.
What are some good, easy trails for beginners?
Most trails in Miami County are suitable for beginners, featuring gentle elevation changes. A great place to start is the Big Bull Creek Park loop from Edgerton, which is a relatively flat and straightforward walk. The various trails within the county's park system are also well-maintained and clearly marked.
Are there any paved trails for walking or running?
Yes, the Great Miami River Recreational Trail offers 32 miles of paved trail perfect for hiking, running, and biking. It's part of the nation's largest paved trail network and provides beautiful river vistas as it passes by parks and historic sites.
What is the best time of year to hike in Miami County?
Hiking is enjoyable year-round. Spring is wonderful for viewing wildflowers and flowing waterfalls, like the one at Charleston Falls. Autumn offers beautiful fall foliage, especially in wooded areas like Garbry Big Woods Reserve. Summer is great for enjoying the prairies, and winter provides a quiet, stark beauty to the landscape.
What do other hikers think of the trails in Miami County?
The area is well-regarded by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained park system, the variety of landscapes from prairies to woodlands, and the scenic natural features like rivers and waterfalls.
What are some popular places to hike in Miami County?
Several parks are local favorites for hiking:
- Charleston Falls Preserve: A highly popular park known for its picturesque waterfall and extensive trail system through forests and prairies.
- Garbry Big Woods Reserve: Praised for its accessible boardwalk trail through a mature beech-maple forest.
- Greenville Falls State Scenic River Area: A well-regarded spot offering short trails, river access, and a scenic waterfall.
Besides hiking, what other outdoor activities are available?
Miami County offers many outdoor pursuits. The Great Miami River Recreational Trail is a premier destination for biking. Fishing is popular in stocked ponds at parks like Stillwater Prairie Reserve and Garbry Big Woods Reserve. The diverse habitats also make the area excellent for bird watching.
Are there opportunities for longer hikes?
Yes, for a more substantial hike, the Big Bull Creek Park loop — Edgerton is a moderate route that covers nearly 9 miles. You can also cover long distances by hiking sections of the 32-mile Great Miami River Recreational Trail.
What makes the trails at Garbry Big Woods Reserve unique?
Garbry Big Woods Reserve is known for its 0.7-mile boardwalk loop, which takes you through a beautiful wet beech-maple forest, offering an immersive nature experience without getting your feet muddy. The reserve also features an educational arboretum and a stocked fishing pond.
Most popular routes in Miami County
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