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Turkey Creek Streamway Trail

Routes

Hiking trails & Routes

Turkey Creek Streamway Trail

Moderate

4.8

(5332)

11,227

hikers

Turkey Creek Streamway Trail

Q: How long does it take to hike the Turkey Creek Streamway Trail?

The full route is about 11.2 kilometers (7 miles) long and typically takes around 2 hours and 51 minutes to complete as a hike.

Q: Is the trail suitable for beginners or families with children?

Yes, it's an excellent choice for beginners and families. The trail is notably flat with minimal elevation changes, making it an easy and kid-friendly option suitable for walking, biking, or even strollers.

Q: Where can I access the Turkey Creek Streamway Trail and find parking?

Key access points include Chatlain Park , Werner Park , Waterfall Park, and Merriam Marketplace. The northern trailhead is located at Waterfall Park. Parking is available at these access points.

Q: What kind of terrain can I expect on the trail?

The trail is primarily a paved, multi-use path, making it smooth and accessible. It's largely flat with minimal elevation changes. Much of the path is shaded by large trees, providing a pleasant experience.

Q: What natural features and points of interest will I see along the route?

You'll follow Turkey Creek, which features multiple small waterfalls and cascades, including Turkey Creek Falls at the northern end. The path winds through wooded areas, a butterfly garden, and several parks. You might also spot public art installations and, in May, fields of wild California red poppies. Don't miss Waterfall Park .

Q: What wildlife can be seen on the Turkey Creek Streamway Trail?

Hikers have reported spotting various wildlife, including herons, groundhogs, and foxes. The trail's natural setting within an urban environment provides opportunities to observe these animals.

Q: Is the Turkey Creek Streamway Trail dog-friendly?

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. As a multi-use path, it's a popular spot for dog walkers. Please ensure your dog is on a leash and you clean up after them.

Q: Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to use the trail?

No, there are no permit requirements or entrance fees to access and enjoy the Turkey Creek Streamway Trail. It's freely accessible to the public.

Q: What is the best time of year to visit the trail?

The trail is pleasant year-round, but spring and fall are particularly enjoyable. In May, the trail is known for its blooming wild California red poppies. The shade from large trees makes it comfortable even during warmer months.

Q: Are there amenities available along the trail?

Yes, the trail is well-equipped with amenities for visitors. You'll find benches for resting, picnic tables, playgrounds, water fountains, and seasonal restrooms at various points along the route.

02:51

11.2km

30m

Hiking

The Turkey Creek Streamway Trail offers a delightful escape into nature, even within an urban setting. This paved, multi-use path meanders alongside Turkey Creek, where the gentle sound of flowing water and glimpses of small waterfalls create a serene backdrop. You'll walk through shaded, forested areas, often forgetting the city is nearby, with the dense foliage providing a pleasant environment. The scenery shifts from lush greenery to vibrant fall colors or icy winter cascades, making it a year-round destination.

This moderate 7.0-mile (11.2 km) route involves a very gentle 111 feet (34 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 2 hours and 51 minutes to complete. It's an exceptionally accessible trail, perfect for families, strollers, and wheelchairs, with amenities like benches and picnic shelters along the way. Parking is available at various points, including Chatlain Park and Werner Park, making it easy to hop on and off.

Part of the larger MetroGreen plan, this trail is a key piece of Kansas City's interconnected trail system. It's notable for its accessibility features, including the world's first We-Go-Swing for wheelchair users at Chatlain Park, and for hosting one of Kansas City's largest urban waterfalls at Waterfall Park. The trail also connects to local features like the Merriam Marketplace, adding a community feel to your outdoor adventure.

Last updated: June 9, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

302 m

Turkey Creek Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

Turkey Creek Trail offers a peaceful escape amidst the suburban hustle. This four-mile paved path winds between 75th Street and Antioch Road providing a refreshing retreat. Amidst the lush foliage, the sounds of Turkey Creek create a soothing ambiance, and the trail even leads to one of Kansas City's largest urban waterfalls, Turkey Creek Falls.

Tip by

2.66 km

Chatlain Park

Highlight • Rest Area

Nestled along the Turkey Creek Streamway Trail, Chatlain Park spans 5.25 acres. Named after the esteemed John C. Chatlain, who dedicated 32 years to the City Council, the park has a rich history. In 2000, the park opened its gates, marking a pivotal moment for Merriam's park system growth, spurred by a flood in 1998. Adding to its accolades, Chatlain Park proudly hosts the world's first We-Go-Swing. This innovative, all-inclusive swing enables wheelchair users to share in the joy of swinging alongside their friends, using a rowing motion for a unique experience.

Tip by

4.47 km

Werner Park

Highlight • Rest Area

This park is a tranquil 2-acre gem honoring the legacy of Roger Werner, a dedicated Merriam City Council member. Generously donated by his family, the park is easily accessible from the Merriam Marketplace and lies adjacent to the Turkey Creek Streamway Trail.

Tip by

5.61 km

Waterfall Park

Highlight • Waterfall

Waterfall Park captures our imagination with its mesmerizing waterfall, forming a charming oasis amidst the confines of railroad tracks and an industrial zone. It's an ideal spot to pause, take a breather, and immerse yourself in the soothing sounds of the cascades.

Tip by

11.2 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

11.2 km

Surfaces

7.26 km

3.79 km

127 m

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Today

Saturday 11 July

32°C

21°C

19 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 9.0 km/h

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to hike the Turkey Creek Streamway Trail?

The full route is about 11.2 kilometers (7 miles) long and typically takes around 2 hours and 51 minutes to complete as a hike.

Is the trail suitable for beginners or families with children?

Yes, it's an excellent choice for beginners and families. The trail is notably flat with minimal elevation changes, making it an easy and kid-friendly option suitable for walking, biking, or even strollers.

Where can I access the Turkey Creek Streamway Trail and find parking?

Key access points include Chatlain Park, Werner Park, Waterfall Park, and Merriam Marketplace. The northern trailhead is located at Waterfall Park. Parking is available at these access points.

What kind of terrain can I expect on the trail?

The trail is primarily a paved, multi-use path, making it smooth and accessible. It's largely flat with minimal elevation changes. Much of the path is shaded by large trees, providing a pleasant experience.

What natural features and points of interest will I see along the route?

You'll follow Turkey Creek, which features multiple small waterfalls and cascades, including Turkey Creek Falls at the northern end. The path winds through wooded areas, a butterfly garden, and several parks. You might also spot public art installations and, in May, fields of wild California red poppies. Don't miss Waterfall Park.

What wildlife can be seen on the Turkey Creek Streamway Trail?

Hikers have reported spotting various wildlife, including herons, groundhogs, and foxes. The trail's natural setting within an urban environment provides opportunities to observe these animals.

Is the Turkey Creek Streamway Trail dog-friendly?

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. As a multi-use path, it's a popular spot for dog walkers. Please ensure your dog is on a leash and you clean up after them.

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to use the trail?

No, there are no permit requirements or entrance fees to access and enjoy the Turkey Creek Streamway Trail. It's freely accessible to the public.

What is the best time of year to visit the trail?

The trail is pleasant year-round, but spring and fall are particularly enjoyable. In May, the trail is known for its blooming wild California red poppies. The shade from large trees makes it comfortable even during warmer months.

Are there amenities available along the trail?

Yes, the trail is well-equipped with amenities for visitors. You'll find benches for resting, picnic tables, playgrounds, water fountains, and seasonal restrooms at various points along the route.

Does the trail connect to other paths or attractions?

The trail provides convenient connections to residential developments, commercial centers, and public parks. It also connects directly to the Merriam Marketplace, which hosts a farmers' market on Saturdays from May to September.