Shorter trails can sometimes be a little underwhelming, but we’ve got the perfect family-friendly hike in Kansas that manages to combine entertainment and natural beauty into a short hike that the whole family can enjoy! The Iliff Commons area of Topeka is absolutely stunning, with tons of wildlife amongst a beautiful natural preserve. You can also find a few interesting things around the property, including a replica of an original log cabin that Topeka’s first settlers lived in. Check it out:
The Iliff Commons Hiking Trail is a 1.5-mile loop on private property that is open to the public every day of the year from sunrise to sunset.
Payton Templeton/Alltrails
Dogs are allowed on the property and are even allowed off-leash in certain areas, though note that there are a few “Commons Dogs” that belong to the property owners and may approach you.
Chrissy Gray/Alltrails
The hike is easy and relatively flat. You’ll get to see a lovely pond, but there isn’t much shade on the trail, so it can get pretty warm on a sunny day.
Payton Templeton/Alltrails
Keep your eyes peeled: lots of critters call the prairie home, and you never know what kind of wildlife you might see!
Erin Wesselowski/Alltrails
You’ll come across a cabin that’s a replica of the very first home built in Topeka. The original 12 by 14 foot cabin housed nine men.
Gail K/Alltrails
The Wild Cat Hollow area of the Commons is perfect for a family adventure. Look through the trees and you’ll find all kinds of animals and faces hiding in the bushes and branches!
Gail K/Alltrails
This is such a wonderful opportunity to get a breath of fresh air in the middle of the city, and it’s a great family-friendly hike in Kansas.
Anna Herrera/Alltrails
The owners of Iliff Commons are the Iliff family, and you can learn more about the area from Dr. Iliff’s website.
Payton Templeton/Alltrails
Chrissy Gray/Alltrails
Erin Wesselowski/Alltrails
Gail K/Alltrails
Anna Herrera/Alltrails
What are some of your favorite hiking trails in Kansas? Have you ever hiked this family-friendly trail before? Let us know in the comments!
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Address: Topeka, KS, USA
