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Routes
Hiking trails & Routes
Riley County
Manhattan

Manhattan Linear Trail

Moderate

4

hikers

Manhattan Linear Trail

02:12

8.68km

20m

Hiking

The Manhattan Linear Trail offers a moderate hiking experience, covering 5.4 miles (8.7 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 71 feet (22 metres). You can expect to spend around 2 hours and 12 minutes exploring its varied terrain. The route follows the scenic riparian corridors of the Kansas and…

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Waypoints

A

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

1

3.41 km

Linear Park Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

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 …

Tip by

2

5.58 km

Kansas River

Highlight • River

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 …

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B

8.68 km

End point

Parking

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

4.60 km

4.00 km

< 100 m

Surfaces

4.60 km

3.70 km

299 m

< 100 m

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Elevation

Elevation

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Weather

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Today

Saturday 9 May

27°C

10°C

21 %

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Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h

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This route was planned by komoot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the terrain like on the Manhattan Linear Trail?

The trail features a varied surface, primarily consisting of crushed limestone and concrete sidewalks. It is largely flat, making it suitable for walking, jogging, and cycling. While generally easy, some sections may have slight inclines, particularly where the paved path transitions to natural hiking areas near Colbert Hills Golf Course.

Is the Manhattan Linear Trail suitable for beginners or families?

Yes, the trail is considered generally easy and accessible, making it suitable for beginners and families. Its largely flat profile and varied surfaces accommodate different activity levels. It's also family-friendly and accessible year-round.

What kind of scenery can I expect along the trail?

The trail offers a blend of natural and urban scenery. It follows the riparian corridors of the Kansas and Big Blue rivers, as well as Wildcat Creek, providing natural sights and opportunities to see wildlife. Part of the route skirts atop a Kansas River levee with rural views. As it heads north, it connects shopping districts with suburbs, offering a mix of city and country views. You'll find good tree coverage in some sections, and during spring through fall, it can be quite beautiful, even lined with tallgrass.

Are there any specific points of interest or landmarks?

Yes, the trail connects several parks and neighborhoods. Notable natural features include the Kansas River and the Linear Park Trail itself. You can also see the train bridge and boat ramp on the Blue River, which offer picturesque backdrops, especially in the fall. The trail is also part of the "Walking Through History on the Linear Trail" project, featuring 10 historical markers at various trailheads.

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

The Manhattan Linear Trail is accessible year-round. However, spring through fall is particularly beautiful, with good tree coverage and tallgrass. Fall offers vibrant colors in wooded areas, making it a picturesque time to visit.

Where can I park to access the trail?

The trail has multiple access points along its route, making parking convenient. Specific parking areas are typically available near parks and neighborhoods that the trail connects. For detailed information on parking locations, you can check local city resources like manhattanks.gov or visitmanhattanks.org.

Is the Manhattan Linear Trail dog-friendly?

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash and practice responsible pet ownership by cleaning up after them. Be mindful of other trail users, as it's a popular route for walkers, joggers, and cyclists.

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for this trail?

No, there is no mention of permits or entrance fees required to access the Manhattan Linear Trail. It is a publicly accessible trail.

Are there amenities like benches or restrooms along the way?

Yes, the trail features signage, benches, and distance markers for user convenience. While specific restroom locations are not detailed, given its connectivity to parks and urban areas, facilities may be available at various access points or nearby parks.

Does the trail connect to other paths or parks?

Yes, the Manhattan Linear Trail is notable for its accessibility and connectivity, linking several parks and neighborhoods throughout Manhattan. The route also passes through sections of the Linear Trail and the Manhattan River Trails.

Is the Manhattan Linear Trail a loop or an out-and-back route?

The Manhattan Linear Trail forms a semi-circle around the city, spanning approximately 9 to 9.4 miles. While it's not a complete loop back to a single starting point, its linear nature with multiple access points allows for various out-and-back segments or combinations to create different route lengths.

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7

Manhattan City Park Loop

00:30h

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