Local Destinations for Simple Adventures

Though many of our customers are experienced outdoor enthusiasts, we know many of you are just outdoor-loving amateurs, enjoying some new activities. Others are eager to try out some of your favorite pastimes with your young children, or perhaps you are just trying to stay active as you get older.  Whatever the reason, if you're looking for ways to keep cycling, hiking or paddling at a lower level of difficulty, there are plenty of options in the area.

Cycling

For a simpler cycling option, look for a smooth, wide trail with very little grade change. Ideally you'd have few major road crossings and little or no motor vehicle traffic to deal with.   Manhattan offers several great locations for low-impact cycling. The most obvious is the Linear Park, also called the Linear Trail. The trail runs along the south edge of town, has several good access points and travels over some interesting and beautiful terrain. It is an ideal trail for riding with kids, as only one spot on the trail intersects with traffic. 

A lesser-known trail with some easy sections is the Manhattan River Trails area, with 2-4 miles of trails near the Blue River Bridge. This is a good place for beginning mountain bikers who are looking for a "ride through the woods" feel. The trailhead is near the Blue River boat ramp off Highway 24.

Another beautiful spot for easier cycling is in the River Pond area – paved roads and light traffic are appealing, but don't forget to pay the park fee.

Hiking

What makes an ideal hiking trail for the hiker looking for a less strenuous experience? Beautiful scenery, soft walking surface, and few if any hills. It's always an added bonus to have benches along the way, and if you're hiking with kids they may enjoy the features of interpretive nature trails. 

The Linear Trail obviously fits all of these categories, and can seem like several trails if you hike a different section every time – it varies in its scenery and terrain.  The Konza Prairie trail is well-known, though many people haven't ever actually been there. If you're one of those who has "been meaning to get out there" – it's well worth the trip! There is a short section in the valley, and a longer, steeper section for the more ambitious. 

There are several nice trails around Tuttle Creek, including the Blue River Trail in Outlet Park, a great nature trail along the river below the tubes area. This one-mile loop is a great place to spot river life, and is good for family hiking, as the trailhead is next to a playground and bathroom!

Paddling

To discover a fun paddling experience for the amateur, look for a still body of water (no currents) that is relatively shallow and not very crowded. There are several locations around Tuttle Creek where the coves are shallow and out of the wind, so the paddling can be relatively calm. Of course, the River Pond area is also a good place to do some relaxing canoeing or kayaking, but again you have to remember to pay the park fee. 

As alternatives to that big body of water, try the many smaller bodies of water in the area, like the smaller state lakes. Pottawatomie County State Lake #2 can be reached in a short drive off Highway 24 east of Manhattan, and is a lovely lake for canoeing, picnicking and camping. Pott. County #1 and Geary County are also nice, small lakes. Come in and see us for maps and books covering the area, some free lists of other local trails, and a look at our regional map behind the counter.