The best walks and hikes in Riley County
5.0
(6)
142
hikers
16
hikes
Hiking in Riley County, Kansas, offers trails through tallgrass prairie, along river valleys, and around reservoirs. The landscape features gently rolling hills and open expanses, characteristic of the Flint Hills region. Trails often provide views of native grasslands and riparian areas, with varying elevation changes.
Best hiking trails in Riley County
- The most popular hiking route is Kings Creek Loop Trail — Konza Prairie, a 4.8 miles (7.7 km) trail that takes 2 hours 4 minutes to complete. This…
Last updated: April 28, 2026
7
hikers
2.01km
00:30
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
24.6km
06:17
80m
110m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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1.52km
00:26
30m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
30
hikers
7.75km
02:05
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
2.80km
00:43
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
8.68km
02:12
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
26.9km
07:05
240m
240m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
52
hikers
4.95km
01:21
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
24
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Linear Park Trail runs along the Blue and Kansas Rivers as well as Wildcat Creek. Its total length is just under ten miles, though eventually it is planned to encircle the entire city. As of now it's a great place to go for a hike, jog, or bike ride along the way and through numerous parks and neighborhoods.
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The Kansas River is also known as the Kaw. The city of Kansas City, Missouri was named after the river, as was the state of Kansas. While most of the river's watershed is dammed for flood control, the Kansas River is mostly free flowing, with the exception of one low impact hydroelectric dam.
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This is a nice city park with a playground, sports fields, walking trail, and lake. The loop around the park is especially nice, as it goes in and out of tree covered areas for a nice balance of sun and shade.
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The Kansas River is also known as the Kaw. The city of Kansas City, Missouri was named after the river, as was the state of Kansas. While most of the river's watershed is dammed for flood control, the Kansas River is mostly free flowing, with the exception of one low impact hydroelectric dam.
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Carnahan Cove changes dramatically with the water level in Tuttle Lake. When the water level is high the marshes flourish and make for excellent hiking and fishing. When the water level is low more roads and trails are revealed.
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Broken Arrow Ranch is a Christian summer camp for kids that is a part of the Kansas-Nebraska Conference.
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The lake was constructed between 1961-1962 as a reservoir and for flood control. Farms and houses were submerged when the valley flooded, and when the water level is low you can still see the foundations of buildings revealed along the water's edge.
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Tallgrass prairie and sweeping views distinguish the ridge of the King's Creek loop from the meadows and trees by the creek. The best time to hike is late spring when the prairie comes back to life and the wildflowers are in full bloom. This also makes a great sunrise or sunset hike!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on hiking trails in Riley County?
Hiking in Riley County features diverse terrain, including tallgrass prairie, river valleys, and reservoir shorelines. You'll encounter gently rolling hills and open expanses characteristic of the Flint Hills region, with trails often providing views of native grasslands and riparian areas.
How many hiking trails are available in Riley County?
There are over 15 hiking trails in Riley County, offering a variety of options for different skill levels and preferences.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or casual walkers?
Yes, Riley County has several easy trails. For example, the Frank Anneberg Park loop — Manhattan, Kansas is an easy option, perfect for a relaxed stroll.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Riley County?
The trails in Riley County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 6 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain and scenic views, particularly the tallgrass prairie and reservoir landscapes.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Riley County?
Yes, many trails in Riley County are circular. For instance, the Kings Creek Loop Trail — Konza Prairie and the Frank Anneberg Park loop — Manhattan, Kansas are both popular loop trails.
Are there any longer, more challenging hikes in the area?
For those seeking a challenge, the Carnahan Creek Trail — Tuttle Creek Lake is a difficult 16.7-mile path that follows the shores of Tuttle Creek Lake, offering extensive views and a demanding experience.
Are there hiking trails near water bodies in Riley County?
Absolutely. Trails like the Carnahan Creek Trail — Tuttle Creek Lake offer extensive views along the shores of Tuttle Creek Lake. The Kansas River loop via Liner Park Trail — Manhattan, Kansas also follows the Kansas River.
Are there trails that showcase the native tallgrass prairie?
Yes, the Konza Prairie is a prime location for experiencing the native tallgrass ecosystem. The Kings Creek Loop Trail — Konza Prairie is a moderate route that traverses this unique landscape.
Are there any trails suitable for families with children?
While specific family-friendly designations aren't provided, easy trails like the Frank Anneberg Park loop — Manhattan, Kansas, with minimal elevation gain, are generally well-suited for families looking for a pleasant outdoor experience.
Are there trails that pass through urban parks?
Yes, the Kansas River loop via Liner Park Trail — Manhattan, Kansas leads through urban parks and along the Kansas River, offering a blend of nature and city views.
What is the typical elevation change on trails in Riley County?
Elevation changes vary across Riley County trails. Many easy routes have minimal gain, while more challenging trails like the Carnahan Creek Trail — Tuttle Creek Lake can feature significant ascents and descents, with over 240 meters of elevation gain.
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