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Parking is available at the main trailhead off of State Highway N.
To reach the trailhead from I-435, take exit 29 and head west on NW 120th Street (State Highway D). Continue until you hit State Highway N, and turn right; the trailhead will be on the right side.
prai-rie n. 1. A large open area of grassland.
Prairie Creek Greenway astounded me! Visiting from Southern California, I envisioned a flat ride along a meandering stream on a grass covered prairie. However, to my surprise, Platte City and Prairie Creek Greenway are within rolling, tree covered, scenic hills, and once away from the creek, the path is anything but flat. There are lots of hills, many of them steep, to get your heart pumping. Thank goodness these two senior citizens were able to activate their Swytch pedal assists as needed!
The ride through the greenway is hilly where it leaves the creek, but it is mostly enclosed within the shade of woodlands which kept us cool on an eighty degree afternoon in early October. The sound of birds, squirrels, crickets, and the creek add to the joy of this ride. Lots of curves, bridges, and a park-like setting make it fun to bicycle.
Be sure to discover the waterfall at a U-shaped pullout, most definitely the highlight of the ride for me! (That and seeing my first beautiful red cardinal in the wild! We don't have those in California)
The trail was especially popular with locals who, for the most part, were walking it. We encountered only two other bicyclists.
A couple of spurs take you along main roads and into upscale neighborhoods which the local residents must surely appreciate, but don't bother with them if you're there for the solitude of the greenway. Speaking of spurs, first timers will certainly want to utilize the Trail Link app to stay on course.
Also, be alert for a couple of spots where the trees have done a number on the asphalt with their roots. My wife was actually sent off the trail by protruding roots!
All in all, I'm confident the fine citizens of Platte City know what a gem of a greenway trail system they have, and it's certainly worth spending an hour or two for a couple of out-of-towners or out-of-state explorers like us!
Paved paths for walking, scooting and biking. Lots of butterflies and insects. Reclaimed prairies. Frequent natural seating/rest areas. Bridges over creeks and even WATERFALLS in Prairie Creek with access if you’re willing to hold onto a tree or two. We only explored about a third of it and we can’t wait to go back!
The fairly remote paved running path consisted of small rolling hills and low traffic. At 5:45 on a weekday we passed only four people on our out and back from the south parking lot. We ran about 3.25 miles of the path and it was well maintained and quiet. the south trailhead had a port-o-potty and convenient parking right off of N highway south of Platte City. There were some decent hills in the mix of you are looking to do hill repeats.
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