Located in the northeastern corner of the state, Topeka, KS is the capital city of the state and a good place to visit for anyone wanting to learn more about the history of the region or go on outdoor adventures to nearby parks and hiking trails. If you are looking for spots to get away from the city with your family or friends, these are some great places you can reach in less than two hours by car.
Kansas Historical Society’s Nature Trail
The Kansas Historical Society’s Nature Trail is the closest hiking path you can find to the city of Topeka. With a total length of two and a half miles, this beautiful trail goes through a series of prairies and woodlands within the lands of the Kansas Historical Society. The loop is a popular hiking destination for visitors from Topeka, Kansas City, and other nearby urban areas, who praise it for its excellent state of conservation and beautiful sights.
Getting to the Kansas Historical Society and its beautiful nature trail from downtown Topeka takes around 10 minutes by car, driving west along route I-70 W. For out of state visitors, this spot is not only a great place to go hiking but also an excellent opportunity to check out the typical Kansas natural settings, including tallgrass prairies and woodland streams, all of which are introduced by informational tablets.
Eisenhower State Park
Located just 35 miles south of downtown Topeka, in Osage County, the Eisenhower State Park spans an area of almost 1,800 acres and was originally known as Melvern State Park thanks to its location along the shores of Melvern Lake. This state park features an extensive system of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails that attract thousands of visitors each year from all over the state. Getting here from downtown Topeka takes a little under an hour by car.
If you are planning a weekend escape and are looking for a spot to not only go hiking but explore some great natural spots and do different outdoor activities, the Eisenhower State Park is an excellent place to visit. Other popular activities in the area include fishing, camping, swimming, and picnicking. In order to access the park by car, visitors are required to purchase a $5 daily usage fee per vehicle or an annual pass that can be purchased online.
Perry State Park
With more than 40 miles of trails, Perry State Park is another prime hiking spot for Topeka locals. Located along the shores of the Perry Reservoir, this state park features designated campsites, excellent wildlife watching spots, and recreational facilities for boating, horseback riding, picnicking, and other outdoor activities. Getting here from Topeka takes only 20 minutes by car, driving along route US-24 E.
Before you hit the road and check out these excellent hiking spots, make sure to stop by Cable Dahmer of Topeka in Topeka, KS. We have an extensive inventory of new and pre-owned vehicles, as well as the best financing plans in the market for you to take home your favorite car, hassle-free!
Connect with us
