The 1.5-Hour Road Trip To Four Waterfalls Is A Glorious Spring Adventure In Missouri
By Beth Price-Williams|Updated on January 23, 2023(Originally published January 18, 2023)
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
Spring’s all about adventure – from hiking picturesque trails to hitting the highway on our first road trip of the season. We can all probably agree that spring is also the perfect time to chase waterfalls. Even if you don’t have a ton of free time, no worries. You won’t need it on this short and sweet Missouri road trip to four gorgeous waterfalls. Embark on a glorious spring adventure in Missouri the next time you have a few free hours.
Here are the Google Maps directions for this brief road trip. If you know of any other waterfalls in the area you want to visit, just add them to the directions. You can also add or remove stops on Google Maps to meet your timeframe and interests. Whatever you do, have fun on this waterfall road trip in Missouri.
Spring's the perfect time for an adventure in Missouri. Gas up your car; grab some snacks, and hit the road on this short but sweet Missouri road trip. You won't use too much gas on your journey which spans just over 63 miles.
1. Parkville Nature Sanctuary – Parkville
Parkville Nature Sanctuary, 100 E 12 St, Parkville, MO 64152, USA
Let's kick off our road trip at Parkville Nature Sanctuary, home to a gorgeous cascade and an abundance of natural beauty. The short but sweet one-mile Old Kate Trail meanders through lush wooded area and passes a stream before arriving at the gushing waterfall. If you're up for more exploring after you've finished the Old Kate Trail, the nature sanctuary in Missouri also has four other trails. Dogs and other pets are prohibited on all trails, so you'll probably want to keep your furry friends at home. Learn more about the Old Kate Trail on All Trails.
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2. Riverside Waterfall – Riverside
Riverside Waterfall, 1920 NW Platte Rd, Riverside, MO 64150, USA
Our next stop on this road trip in Missouri brings us to Riverside Waterfall. You'll need comfy shoes for this one, too, as you'll follow the .09-mile Linear Trail that will lead you straight to the cascade. Definitely make sure you bring your camera along, too. The trail is just one of more than a half of a dozen, so keep the others in mind for future visits. Find more information on the official website of Riverside, Missouri.
Nestled in Kessler Park, Kessler Falls is a beautiful man-made waterfall and the next stop on our Missouri waterfall road trip. Enjoy a close-up view of the cascade when you stroll along Cliff Drive. The park is open daily from 5 a.m. to midnight. Stop by the official website of Kessler Park for more information.
4. Waterfall Park – Independence
Waterfall Park, 4501 S Bass Pro Dr, Independence, MO 64055, USA
A cozy park with a beautiful lake, Waterfall Park in Independence is home to a beautiful waterfall that really belongs on every Missourian's bucket list. Just follow the walking trail, which is predominately paved, and you can't miss it. It provides the perfect opportunity to pose for photos or snap some selfies. The park is perfect for a stroll followed by a relaxing picnic, if you're hungry right about now. Read more about Waterfront Park.
5. Powell Botanical Gardens - Kingsville
Powell Gardens, Kansas City's Botanical Garden, 1609 NW US Hwy 50, Kingsville, MO 64061, USA
Our final stop brings us to Powell Botanical Gardens, where you'll find an abundance of natural beauty, including a few waterfalls. If you have the time, spend a few hours exploring the popular Kansas City destination that's home to seven themed gardens. You'll likely spend the most time at this popular Missouri attraction, which also features dining and shopping. Unlike the other stops on our waterfall road trip in Missouri, you'll have to pay admission to the botanical gardens, unless you're a member. Make sure you check the garden's website ahead of time to make sure it's open on the day you plan to travel. Here's the official website of Powell Gardens.
Have you been on this Missouri road trip? What is your favorite spring adventure in Missouri? Let us know in the comments! If you enjoy hiking, here are four amazing waterfalls in Missouri you can see in just one day of hiking. (Don’t forget your camera!)
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Missouri Road Trips
Beth Price-Williams|January 23, 2023
Are there any other road trips in Missouri?
Missouri was practically made for road trips. Here are a few Missouri road trips that you’ll definitely want to check out:
