Dorri Partain 
Managing Editor 

Proving you don’t need hiking boots or rugged terrain, Urban Hiking is increasing in popularity.

The Missouri Department of Conservation has hosted a series of Urban Hikes in locations across Kansas City — from the River Market to historic cemeteries — to showcase both native and invasive plant species, as well as architecture. 

Tuesday, Aug.13., a dozen hikers hit the pavement within the Pendleton Heights neighborhood. Led by Stacey Davis — director of the Anita B. Gorman Conservation Discovery Center (4750 Troost Ave) — this hiking group set out at 6 p.m. from Independence Plaza Park (2200 Independence Ave). For an hour and a half, participants wandered along streets and alleys, covering approximately 2.5 miles before returning to the park.

Davis pointed out various species, as hikers asked questions or used phone apps to identify unknown plant species. In addition to residential plantings, Pendleton Heights neighbors maintain a community garden and orchard — both of which were destination stops during this hike.

Now in its fourth year, the Urban Hiking series begins in May and ends with an eight-mile hike in October. Participants can try to sign up for the entire series, but spaces fill-up quickly. Registration is through the Missouri Department of Conservation’s website — next year’s schedule will be posted by spring 2025.  

While Davis said she enjoys leading hikers — and discovers something new each year in areas she’s hiked before —  she also encourages folks to get out and do some exploring on their own to see what’s growing, even if it’s only a few blocks away.