Day Trips from Manhattan
← All Manhattan day tripsDay Trips from Manhattan: Hiking Trails & Nature
Find the best hiking trails and nature destinations within driving distance of Manhattan, KS. From easy lakeside walks to challenging ridge hikes, these day trip trails deliver real scenery without the plane ticket. Drive times, ratings, and trail info included.
12 hiking trails near Manhattan
Flint Hills Nature Trail Trailhead
Council Grove, KS 66846
Just 40 min from Manhattan, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Parkville Nature Sanctuary
Parkville, MO 64152
Just 1 hr 52 min from Manhattan, rated 4.8 stars by 1,475 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Burr Oak Woods Conservation Area
MO 64015, USA
Just 2 hrs 9 min from Manhattan, rated 4.8 stars by 1,553 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve
Strong City, KS 66869
Just 1 hr 23 min from Manhattan, rated 4.8 stars by 1,331 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Spillway State Park hiking trail
KS 66502, USA
Just 20 min from Manhattan, rated 4.7 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Buffalo Track Canyon Nature Trailhead
Marquette, KS 67464
Just 1 hr 45 min from Manhattan, rated 4.7 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Winterset Park Nature Area
Lee's Summit, MO 64081
Just 2 hrs 4 min from Manhattan, rated 4.7 stars by 343 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Weston Bend State Park
Weston, MO 64098
Just 2 hrs 1 min from Manhattan, rated 4.7 stars by 1,658 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Cave Spring Park
Kansas City, MO 64133
Just 1 hr 58 min from Manhattan, rated 4.6 stars by 847 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Hidden Springs Nature Trail
KS 66071, USA
Just 1 hr 58 min from Manhattan, rated 4.6 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Mushroom Rock State Park
Brookville, KS 67425
Just 1 hr 27 min from Manhattan, rated 4.6 stars by 1,015 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Chase Lake Falls Trail
Cottonwood Falls, KS 66845
Just 1 hr 24 min from Manhattan, rated 4.6 stars by 146 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Trails Day Trips from Manhattan
What are the best hiking trails near Manhattan, KS?
The best hikes near Manhattan range from easy nature preserve loops to challenging state park trails with waterfalls, overlooks, and canyon scenery. Check the cards above for top-rated options with real drive times.
Are there easy hikes near Manhattan?
Yes. Many state parks and nature preserves near Manhattan offer well-maintained, beginner-friendly trails under 3 miles. Look for "Nature" tagged destinations above for the most accessible options.
What should I bring on a day hike from Manhattan?
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. Most trails near Manhattan are well-marked but cell service can be spotty in state parks. Download trail maps before you leave and wear sturdy shoes.
When is the best time to hike near Manhattan?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best hiking weather and scenery near Manhattan. Fall foliage is spectacular at most destinations. Summer works but can be hot and buggy. Winter hiking is possible at many parks with proper gear.
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