Justin Schaefer

From Westphalia, MO take Highway 63 north, then Highway 133 west 7 miles to the area. The coordinates for the road that will take you to the trailhead are: 38°24'38.8"N 92°05'56.1"W. The trail is a 1.8 mile loop, so you can start either direction.  The lands of Painted Rock Conservation Area show evidence of occupation by Native Americans as early as 9,000 years ago. An Indian burial cairn, loc...

Lace up your boots and head to the 1,600 acre Shawnee Mission Park, located about 25 minutes southwest of downtown Kansas City. One of the best parks in the Kansas City metro boats miles of hiking/mountain biking trails, a 120 acre lake, a marina that rents outs kayaks, paddle boards, canoes, and pedal boats, a 53 acre off-leash dog area, a disc golf course, shelters, and numerous picnic areas....

Located just outside of Kansas City, MO, the Parkville Nature sanctuary is a great little place for hiking, photography, or just an escape from the city. The Nature Sanctuary is located directly behind the Platte County Health Department (1201 East St, Parkville, MO 64152). There is a parking lot located directly behind the Health Department building; park in the lot and you will spot the trail...

On a road trip from Kanasas City, MO to explore Lake Superior we stumbled across this amazing campground right on the shore of Lake Superior, Little Sand Bay Campground (34155 State Highway 13, Bayfield, WI 54814). After a long drive, you may want to take a nap :) Once you wake up, check out Morty's Pub for dinner. I suggest the Bourbon Bacon Burger and the Cheese Curds.  Back at the campground...

Head out to Line Creek Trail in Kansas City, MO where you'll find a photogenic waterfall. The trail stretches 8.25 miles currently with plans for extension. The closest trailhead to the waterfall is located near the Line Creek Community Center and Ice Arena (5940 NW Waukomis Dr, Kansas City, MO 64151).  From this trailhead, head south on the trail for approximately 0.5 miles; you will notice th...