Nature Walks

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Explore local trails, sites, and unique destinations! Please check specific walk information for lunch details. All walks depart from Antioch Park and return times vary. Inclement weather date is the following week. Staff will determine if weather conditions are suitable for hiking. Please bring your own water bottle and wear good walking shoes. Make sure to register for all walks at least one week in advance.  A Nature Walk Activity Key is also included below.  Call us at (913) 826-2975 with questions.

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three men standing in front of a pond in the woods on a sunny day
two women standing on a trail in the woods
group of people walking on grass trail

Adventure Walks 

Find your favorite trails all over the region!   We provide transportation and a lunch reservation at a local restaurant close to our destination. Lunch costs on your own. Depart from Antioch Park. Return times vary. Inclement weather date is the following week. Staff will determine if weather conditions are suitable for hiking. Please bring your own water bottle. Please register at least one week prior to departure.


Baker Wetlands
Take a guided hike through the Baker Wetlands Trail. After, enjoy time in the Discovery Center and gift shop. Lunch will be at Mr. Brew’s Taphouse. Gravel-packed and mowed grass natural trail.
1 - 7 hr. outing - $31 / $33 nonresidents             

21651     Antioch Park      M            6/16      Thu     9:15 am


Cedar Niles Park
Enjoy a self-paced walk along the newly opened Cedar Niles Park in Johnson County. This park features streams, tree-lined paved trails, and diverse plant life. Please bring a sack lunch. Stop for a sweet treat on the way back. 
1 - 3.5 hr. outing - $18 / $20 nonresidents

21652     Antioch Park      E            7/29      Fri     10:30 am


Lakeside Nature Center and Trail
Walk along the 2-mile Fox Hollow Nature Trail in Swope Park. This trail runs along the limestone bluffs and has the feel of a primitive wetland setting.  Lunch at Waldo Pizza. 
1 - 7 hr. outing - $31 / $33 nonresidents            

21653     Antioch Park      M            7/15      Fri     9:15 am


Nature Outings

Enjoy some time in nature with guided tours, walk through beautifully maintained gardens, attend nature festivals, and much more on these nature-themed trips. We provide transportation and admission costs. Lunch costs on your own. Please register at least one week prior to departure.

David Traylor Zoo
Tucked away in Emporia, Kan. sits a small zoo with big personality. Enjoy a guided tour of the zoo from one of the staff. Walk the beautifully maintained tropical gardens throughout the park and hear about the grounds on which the zoo sits.  
1 - 7 hr. outing - $32 / $34 nonresidents

21666     Antioch Park      E            6/9      Thu     9:30 am


Festival of Butterflies
There’s a flutter in the air…it must be the butterflies! Enjoy the day at Powell Gardens and immerse yourself in the beauty and whimsical nature of these brightly colored pollinators at the annual Festival of Butterflies.  
1 - 7.5 hr. outing - $49 / $51 nonresidents (includes boxed lunch)

21667     Antioch Park      E            7/26      Tue     8:15 am

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Nature Walk Activity Level Key:

E= Easy (Smooth, even trail with slight elevation increases). 

  •  Trails are typically paved or packed earth with few roots, rocks or obstructions.
  •  Trails are typically wide and well maintained.
  •  Inclines, overall, will be minimal and gradual.
  •  Trail examples: Prairie Spirit Trail, Gary L. Haller Trail, Loose Park

M= Moderate (Natural or paved trail with elevation changes and variety of terrain) Recommended for participants with good balance, experience on nature trails. Use of hiking boots and walking sticks optional.

  • Trails are paved, packed earth or more rugged.
  • Trails can vary in width and level of maintenance.
  • Inclines can be steep along the trail.
  • Trail examples: Konza Prairie Trail, Watkins Mill, Katy Trail

D= Difficult (Natural trail with potentially steep elevation changes and a variety of terrain) Recommended for participants with good balance, experience on hiking trails, good endurance and high level of comfort in the outdoors. Use of hiking boots and/or walking sticks recommended.

  • Trails are typically packed earth or more rugged.
  • Trails can be narrow and require good balance and visual acuity.
  • Inclines can be steep and require the use of hands to steady (on natural objects or with poles).
  • Trail examples: Indian Cave State Park, Van Meter State Park

Cancellation Policy:

Pre-paid ticket costs and a $5 processing fee will be deducted from cancellation refunds.   Within seven days of trip, cancellations are non-refundable.  Staff will determine if weather conditions are suitable for hiking.  

man and woman hiking through the woods
Group of people viewing wildflowers