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James A. Reed Memorial Wildlife Area
4.7 ★★★★★ 1,699 Google reviews · Running trail in Lee's Summit, Missouri · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Mixed
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from James A. Reed Memorial Wildlife Area's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Expansive woodland & wetland hunting grounds features picnic spots, trails & fishing lakes & ponds.
What runners say about James A. Reed Memorial Wildlife Area
“The park is incredibly peaceful and clean, with smooth, well-maintained pavement that’s perfect for riding.”
“The walking trails are beautifully scenic, offering a great opportunity to stretch your legs and enjoy the surroundings.”
“The park is incredibly peaceful and clean, with smooth, well-maintained pavement that’s perfect for riding.”
This is easily the best nature park in the area. It has plenty of lakes, peaceful views, and beautiful scenery everywhere you look. My favorite part of the park is definitely the nature trail — aside from a few small bridges, it’s completely natural and absolutely gorgeous.
Took my motorcycle out to this spot around sunset and couldn’t have picked a better location. The park is incredibly peaceful and clean, with smooth, well-maintained pavement that’s perfect for riding. While there are some gravel areas, the main roads are mostly asphalt, which made for a great cruising experience.
James A Reed Memorial Wildlife Area is a true gem for outdoor enthusiasts! Whether you're into fishing, kayaking, or just taking a leisurely walk, this place has it all. The fishing spots are serene and well-maintained, providing a perfect escape.
Updated photos. We still visit here and enjoy the quiet of the woods. I have enjoyed the nature trail for many years now. It's a great place to go walking or fishing if you prefer.
Trail conditions & character
“The walking trails are beautifully scenic, offering a great opportunity to stretch your legs and enjoy the surroundings.”
“The park is incredibly peaceful and clean, with smooth, well-maintained pavement that’s perfect for riding.”
“Bathrooms could be nicer, but you take waht you get at a lake.”
“While there are some gravel areas, the main roads are mostly asphalt, which made for a great cruising experience.”
“While there are some gravel areas, the main roads are mostly asphalt, which made for a great cruising experience.”
“This area is mowed around the lakes with gravel parking areas, otherwise it is undeveloped for those wanting to experience nature.”
Plan your run at James A. Reed Memorial Wildlife Area
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfaceMixed — more than one surface along the route, so check the segment you plan to run
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websitemdc.mo.gov
- Phone+1 816-622-0900
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 6 am–10 pm |
| Tuesday | 6 am–10 pm |
| Wednesday | 6 am–10 pm |
| Thursday | 6 am–10 pm |
| Friday | 6 am–10 pm |
| Saturday | 6 am–10 pm |
| Sunday | 6 am–10 pm |
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