Black Hoof Park Lake Lenexa
A 160-acre park featuring diverse wildlife, scenic trails, a unique dam, and water activities on Lake Lenexa.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Mild weather, fewer crowds
Black Hoof Park Lake Lenexa
Best Time
Mild weather, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 160-acre park featuring diverse wildlife, scenic trails, a unique dam, and water activities on Lake Lenexa.
"This park is an absolute gem in Lenexa! The scenic views are stunning, especially around Lake Lenexa."
🥾 Trail Variety
Mix paved north trails with gravel south trails for a varied 3-mile loop. Wetlands detour adds more distance!
🛶 Kayak Rentals
Rent kayaks and paddleboards in summer for a fun way to explore the lake. Good prices!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Unique Dam
Center of the lake loop
An artistic and impressive spillway, far from a typical drab structure. A must-see feature!

Paved Lakeside Trail
North side of the lake
A wide, stroller and bike-friendly paved path offering lovely lake views and keeping kids away from potential hazards.

Wetlands Nature Walk
Southwest area of the park
A peaceful half-mile detour leading to a lovely wetlands area, perfect for birdwatching and quiet contemplation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Trails
Wildlife & Water Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Trail Variety
Mix paved north trails with gravel south trails for a varied 3-mile loop. Wetlands detour adds more distance!
🛶 Kayak Rentals
Rent kayaks and paddleboards in summer for a fun way to explore the lake. Good prices!
🦢 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for geese, ducks, and even cranes during your visit. Peaceful and scenic!
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
Paved trails on the north side are great for strollers and bikes. Playgrounds are also available!
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Trail Variety
Mix paved north trails with gravel south trails for a varied 3-mile loop. Wetlands detour adds more distance!
🛶 Kayak Rentals
Rent kayaks and paddleboards in summer for a fun way to explore the lake. Good prices!
🦢 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for geese, ducks, and even cranes during your visit. Peaceful and scenic!
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
Paved trails on the north side are great for strollers and bikes. Playgrounds are also available!
📸 Dam Views
Don't miss the artistic features of the dam; it's a unique and impressive sight!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Black Hoof Park Lake Lenexa, calling it a 'gem' and one of their favorite local parks. They praise its beauty, well-maintained trails, and unique dam features. The abundance of wildlife and family-friendly amenities like playgrounds and accessible paths are frequently highlighted. Some note that foliage can obscure lake views on the south side, but overall, it's highly recommended for a peaceful outdoor escape.
"One of my favorite parks in the area!! So pretty and unique. I love the little boardwalk area and the dam. Such a perfect park for going on a nice walk, run, or just to relax. Plenty of seating areas and the bathrooms and trails are very well maintained! So many cute animals too. There are also kayaks and paddleboards available to rent during the summer. The rental prices are good and the kayaks are pretty easy to rent and use!"
Mary
"The loop around the lake is pleasant.
On the North side offers a 1 mile trail with wide paved path with a wide mowed shoulder. The view of the lake and dam is impressive. This is a GOOD PLACE FOR KIDS because they are kept away from poison ivy.
Between the North and South legs is the dam. They made a good effort to build some artistic features. It is not the usual drab spillway.
The South side of the lake offers a wide gravel path, also 1 mile in length. It is not paved, but it might as well be. It completely smooth with no toe stubbers (roots, rocks, tree trunks). You cannot see the lake very well on this path because there is plenty of foliage.
On the right side of my map, you also see I wandered down a path that leads to a lovely wetlands. That was about a half mile each way, so the total distance was 3 miles."
Paul Johnson
"Black Hoof Park is an absolute gem in Lenexa! The scenic views are stunning, especially around Lake Lenexa, where you can enjoy peaceful water reflections and plenty of wildlife. The paths are well-maintained and clear—whether you're walking, running, or biking, it’s easy to navigate through a mix of paved trails and natural surfaces.
What really stands out is the abundance of beautiful nature everywhere you look. From wildflowers and wooded areas to open prairie spaces, it’s a perfect escape into tranquility. The sounds of birds, rustling leaves, and water at the spillway make it so relaxing.
Great for families, with fun playgrounds, disc golf, and spots for fishing or kayaking. Whether you’re visiting for adventure or quiet contemplation, this park delivers a wonderful outdoor experience. Highly recommend!"
Kevin “KevLar” L
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Black Hoof Park is located in Lenexa, Kansas. You can access it via Monticello Road. The park has multiple access points, including near the boat launch and playgrounds.
Yes, there are parking areas available, including near the boat launch and by the Oak Shelter playgrounds.
Public transportation options to Black Hoof Park may be limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services for easier access.
The north side of the trail is accessed by the north playgrounds, while the south side can be accessed by parking near the boat launch.
The park features a loop around the lake, with paved trails on the north side and gravel paths on the south. Maps are available to guide you.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Black Hoof Park is a public park and generally does not have an entrance fee for general access to trails and grounds.
Park hours typically align with daylight hours, but it's always best to check the official Lenexa Parks and Recreation website for the most current operating times.
For general park access, no booking is required. However, if you plan to rent kayaks or paddleboards, it's advisable to check availability and potentially reserve them, especially during peak season.
Standard park rules apply, such as leash laws for pets and regulations regarding fires or alcohol. Check local ordinances for specifics.
Yes, personal kayaks and paddleboards are generally allowed on Lake Lenexa, provided they meet safety regulations. Check with the park for any specific guidelines.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy walking, running, biking on the trails, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, disc golf, and exploring the playgrounds.
The paved trails on the north side of the lake are excellent for strollers and wheelchairs, offering a smooth and accessible experience.
Yes, the park is known for its diverse wildlife, including geese, ducks, and cranes, making it a great spot for nature observation.
The park is well-maintained with clean restrooms and picnic shelters, including the Oak Shelter, making it ideal for family outings.
The dam features unique artistic elements, setting it apart from typical spillways and making it a visually interesting point of interest.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or cafes directly within Black Hoof Park. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks for picnics.
The surrounding Lenexa area offers various dining options, from fast-casual to sit-down restaurants. A quick search for 'restaurants near Black Hoof Park' will provide nearby choices.
Yes, Black Hoof Park has picnic shelters and areas, making it a perfect spot for a picnic lunch or dinner.
Grilling policies can vary. It's best to check with Lenexa Parks and Recreation for specific rules regarding charcoal or gas grills in designated areas.
There are no concessions within the park. It's recommended to bring all your food and beverages with you.
📸 📸 Photography
The dam with its artistic features, the scenic lake views, the wetlands, and the diverse wildlife offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Absolutely! The park's mix of water, wooded areas, prairie spaces, and wildlife makes it a prime location for nature photographers.
Early morning and late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and golden hues. Wildlife is also often more active during these times.
Drone usage is typically regulated in public parks. It's essential to check with Lenexa Parks and Recreation for their specific drone policy before flying.
The unique dam structure and the peaceful wetlands are standout features that offer distinctive photographic subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Walkers & Runners
🛶 Kayakers & Nature Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Black Hoof Park
On the south side of the lake, you'll find a 1-mile gravel path. While not paved, it's remarkably smooth and free of major obstructions, offering a pleasant walking experience. However, dense foliage can sometimes obscure lake views on this side. For a more immersive nature experience, consider venturing down the path to the lovely wetlands area, which adds about a half-mile each way to your trek, creating a rewarding 3-mile total for a more extensive exploration.
These trails are not just for walking; they are perfect for running, biking, and simply enjoying the diverse scenery. The park's commitment to maintaining these paths ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all visitors, whether you're looking for a quick stroll or a longer hike.
Wildlife and Water Activities at Lake Lenexa
During the summer months, the lake transforms into a hub for water activities. Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available, offering a unique and enjoyable way to experience the tranquility of the water and get a different perspective of the park. The rental prices are considered reasonable, and the process of renting and using the equipment is generally straightforward. Whether you're an experienced paddler or a beginner, these rentals provide a fun way to spend an afternoon on Lake Lenexa.
Family Fun and Playgrounds
Beyond the playgrounds, the stroller and bike-friendly paved trails on the north side of the lake are a significant advantage for families with young children. This accessibility allows parents to easily navigate the park with little ones in tow, enjoying the scenic views without the hassle of rough terrain. The combination of well-maintained play areas and accessible trails makes Black Hoof Park a top choice for a family day out in the Kansas City area.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit