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Link up to the peds-only trail in Swope Park and pass through a restored glade with oat grass, wildflowers, birds & more


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Map Key

2.3

Miles

3.7

KM

Out and Back

908' 277 m

High

793' 242 m

Low

190' 58 m

Up

190' 58 m

Down

3%

Avg Grade (2°)

22%

Max Grade (12°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Spring · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Family Friendly The rock formations are fun to climb, especially for younger hikers.

The trail is closed in wet weather. However, we will hike despite the closed sign if the mud isn't sticking to our shoes. The park seems to close the trail based on damage potential by the MTBs, which makes sense.

Overview

Rocky Point Glade is a quiet trail that runs above the Wudchuk Run MTB trail through a restored glade. Urban Trail Co.'s map shows the trail ending at the west end of Wudchuk Run. However, we could not find the trail beyond the Swope Park office. If we learn more, we will update this entry. Enjoy birds, wildflowers and views of the park and the city.

Need to Know

Stop by the Lakeside Nature Center to see the eagles, owls, and reptiles, including a giant snapping turtle.

Description

Start at the trailhead near the parking lot at the east end of Oakwood Drive at Oldham Rd. Switchbacks take you to a sign where the Rancho D-Lux trail goes to the left. Follow that trail.

There will be a fork in the trail close to Oakwood Drive. Take the left fork and cross Oakwood Drive. Once across, go left. The trail will switchback up the hill, past a stone shelter then to a crossroad near a red park building. To the left, you'll see a wood barrier. This is the Rocky Point Glade trailhead. The pedestrians-only sign has been vandalized and last we saw was on the ground. Go through this barrier.

The trail will wind above the Wudchuk Run trail for a bit then the terrain will turn to tall grass. Welcome to the glade. Follow the trail for about 3/4 mile to a seating area near the park office grounds. Reverse course to return.

You'll notice along the way a few opportunities to join the Wudchuk Run trail. The terrain along Wudchuk Run differs from the glade, with rock formations, more elevation changes and challenges to footing by the rocky path. Take the Wudchuk Run trail back for some variety and added difficulty.

Flora & Fauna

Tons of woodpeckers.

History & Background

The glade was restored over the past few years. Many invasive species were removed by volunteers. Learn more here: m.youtube.com/watch?v=-HTSL….

Contacts

Shared By:

Orphaned User

Trail Ratings

  4.5 from 2 votes

#1

in Swope Park

#3033

Overall
  4.5 from 2 votes
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in Missouri

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Photos

Take a Virtual Tour of the Swope Park Trails in Kansas City, MO
Aug 25, 2020 near Raytown, MO
At the trail's endpoint, enjoy the totems showing the area's plant and animal wildlife.
Jan 29, 2017 near Raytown, MO
A hot summer morning doesn't stop this runner.
Feb 2, 2017 near Raytown, MO

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