On Labor day I grabbed my water pack, some snacks and headed out. I was headed an hour north of Kansas City to a nice small state park. Weston Bend State Park sits nestled in the bluffs above the Missouri River in Weston Missouri. A relatively small state park but well worth the visit. Its almost a hidden gem in northwest Missouri. It has great views of the river and nice panoramic views of Leavenworth Kansas. There are 8 paths ranging in length from 0.20 miles to 3.25 miles. The park has a paved bike path, scenic overlook, camping, and covered picnic shelters. There are also quite a few placards with information about local flora and fauna.
View from Weston Bend looking at the Missouri River
I started the day hoping to get down to some of the lower trails however many of them were still under large amounts of water and did not look like they would be passable anytime soon. I spent most of my morning hiking on the West Ridge trail. This trail takes you along a nice ridge with some amazing views of the Missouri River. The weather was fantastic and there were not to many people out so it was rather quiet. As the day went on more and more people were out and about. Lots of families with young kids and folks with their dogs. It was nice to see everyone out enjoying the day. Even though I was out there to enjoy day and the nice weather I was still there to start training for Philmont. I decided to leave my bulky DSLR Nikon camera at home and used my iPhone as my camera.
Weston Bend Trail Sign
It was a great day and a great hike. I cant wait to get back there when the leaves start to change for the fall. Should make for some really awesome photos. Since the trails were not all that physically demanding I might take my bigger camera.
One thing I will say is that the drive home was great except when I pulled up to the house and went to get out of the car. My whole body was rejecting the fact I had done physical activity that day. Ended up with a small blister on my foot. Needless to say I was a little stiff and sore the next morning but it was well worth it.
Happy Hiking
Adam
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