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Hiking trails & Routes

Johnson County

Lenexa

South Shore East Loop

Routes

Hiking trails & Routes

Johnson County

Lenexa

South Shore East Loop

Easy

hikers

South Shore East Loop

Q: What is the terrain like on the South Shore East Loop?

The trail is primarily a narrow dirt path, mostly flat with gentle inclines and declines. There's a concrete causeway for one creek crossing, which typically only floods during high water. Other creek crossings are seasonal. It's well-maintained and easy to navigate.

Q: Is the trail suitable for beginners or families?

Yes, the South Shore East Loop is classified as a 'green difficulty singletrack trail,' making it ideal for beginners and families. Its gentle grades and well-maintained path offer an accessible and pleasant hiking experience.

Q: Where can I park for the South Shore East Loop?

You can access the trail and find parking at either Shelter #10 or the Walnut Grove Playground area within Shawnee Mission Park. Restrooms are also available at these locations, though they may be seasonal.

Q: Is the South Shore East Loop dog-friendly?

Yes, the trail is welcoming to dogs. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash at all times to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone on the trail.

Q: When is the best time of year to hike this route?

The South Shore East Loop is accessible year-round. Spring offers abundant wildflowers, fall brings vibrant colors, and even winter after a snowfall creates a picturesque, 'holiday card' like experience. It's a great option in any season.

Q: Are there any fees or permits required to hike in Shawnee Mission Park?

No, there are generally no entrance fees or permits required to access the trails within Shawnee Mission Park, including the South Shore East Loop. It's freely accessible to the public.

Q: What kind of scenery can I expect along the way?

You can expect a serene hiking experience surrounded by lush trees and scenic views of the lake. The trail is densely canopied, providing ample shade. Depending on the season, you'll see wildflowers, vibrant fall foliage, or a beautiful snowy landscape.

Q: Are there any notable landmarks or points of interest on the trail?

Yes, one notable feature along the route is the Dragonfly Sculpture . The trail also offers picturesque views of the lake and surrounding natural beauty.

Q: What wildlife might I see on the South Shore East Loop?

Hikers can anticipate encountering various wildlife along the path, given the trail's natural setting within Shawnee Mission Park. Keep an eye out for birds, small mammals, and other local fauna.

Q: Does the trail intersect with other paths?

Yes, while the South Shore East Loop makes up 100% of this route, it does briefly intersect with the Equestrian Trail for about 13% of its length.

00:31

2.00km

10m

Hiking

The South Shore East Loop offers a delightful, easy hike through a lush, forested environment, perfect for a quick nature escape. You'll wander along a well-maintained singletrack path, enjoying views of Shawnee Mission Lake and passing through areas with diverse trees and even meadows of tall prairie grass. Keep an eye out for the Dragonfly Sculpture, a unique landmark along the way, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere that makes this one of the best hikes in the area.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is part of the larger South Shore Trail system within Shawnee Mission Park, offering ample parking and amenities at various access points. While generally easy, some sections can be rocky or root-filled, so sturdy shoes are recommended. Be aware that the trail can get muddy after rain, and creek crossings might flood, so check conditions if you're heading out after wet weather.

This popular hiking trail is consistently rated as easy, making it an excellent choice for families and dog owners looking for a less strenuous outing. With a distance of 1.2 miles (2.0 km), a minimal 39 feet (12 metres) of elevation gain, and an estimated duration of just 31 minutes, it’s a high-payoff route for a short time investment. It's also known for its year-round accessibility, providing beautiful scenery from spring wildflowers to colorful fall foliage.

Last updated: June 9, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

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321 m

Dragonfly Sculpture

Highlight • Monument

2.00 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

1.99 km

< 100 m

Surfaces

1.97 km

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Sunday 9 August

36°C

26°C

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the terrain like on the South Shore East Loop?

The trail is primarily a narrow dirt path, mostly flat with gentle inclines and declines. There's a concrete causeway for one creek crossing, which typically only floods during high water. Other creek crossings are seasonal. It's well-maintained and easy to navigate.

Is the trail suitable for beginners or families?

Yes, the South Shore East Loop is classified as a 'green difficulty singletrack trail,' making it ideal for beginners and families. Its gentle grades and well-maintained path offer an accessible and pleasant hiking experience.

Where can I park for the South Shore East Loop?

You can access the trail and find parking at either Shelter #10 or the Walnut Grove Playground area within Shawnee Mission Park. Restrooms are also available at these locations, though they may be seasonal.

Is the South Shore East Loop dog-friendly?

Yes, the trail is welcoming to dogs. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash at all times to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone on the trail.

When is the best time of year to hike this route?

The South Shore East Loop is accessible year-round. Spring offers abundant wildflowers, fall brings vibrant colors, and even winter after a snowfall creates a picturesque, 'holiday card' like experience. It's a great option in any season.

Are there any fees or permits required to hike in Shawnee Mission Park?

No, there are generally no entrance fees or permits required to access the trails within Shawnee Mission Park, including the South Shore East Loop. It's freely accessible to the public.

What kind of scenery can I expect along the way?

You can expect a serene hiking experience surrounded by lush trees and scenic views of the lake. The trail is densely canopied, providing ample shade. Depending on the season, you'll see wildflowers, vibrant fall foliage, or a beautiful snowy landscape.

Are there any notable landmarks or points of interest on the trail?

Yes, one notable feature along the route is the Dragonfly Sculpture. The trail also offers picturesque views of the lake and surrounding natural beauty.

What wildlife might I see on the South Shore East Loop?

Hikers can anticipate encountering various wildlife along the path, given the trail's natural setting within Shawnee Mission Park. Keep an eye out for birds, small mammals, and other local fauna.

Does the trail intersect with other paths?

Yes, while the South Shore East Loop makes up 100% of this route, it does briefly intersect with the Equestrian Trail for about 13% of its length.

Are there restrooms or water available on the trail?

Restrooms are available at the main access points, specifically near Shelter #10 and the Walnut Grove Playground area. These facilities may be seasonal, so it's always a good idea to plan accordingly. There is no direct water source on the trail itself, so bring your own.