Shorter trails can sometimes be a little underwhelming, but we’ve got the perfect family-friendly hike in Kansas that manages to combine entertainment and natural beauty into a short hike that the whole family can enjoy! The Iliff Commons area of Topeka is absolutely stunning, with tons of wildlife amongst a beautiful natural preserve. You can also find a few interesting things around the property, including a replica of an original log cabin that Topeka’s first settlers lived in. Check it out:

The Iliff Commons Hiking Trail is a 1.5-mile loop on private property that is open to the public every day of the year from sunrise to sunset.
Payton Templeton/Alltrails
Dogs are allowed on the property and are even allowed off-leash in certain areas, though note that there are a few "Commons Dogs" that belong to the property owners and may approach you.
Chrissy Gray/Alltrails
The hike is easy and relatively flat. You'll get to see a lovely pond, but there isn't much shade on the trail, so it can get pretty warm on a sunny day.
Payton Templeton/Alltrails

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Keep your eyes peeled: lots of critters call the prairie home, and you never know what kind of wildlife you might see!
Erin Wesselowski/Alltrails
You'll come across a cabin that's a replica of the very first home built in Topeka. The original 12 by 14 foot cabin housed nine men.
Gail K/Alltrails
The Wild Cat Hollow area of the Commons is perfect for a family adventure. Look through the trees and you'll find all kinds of animals and faces hiding in the bushes and branches!
Gail K/Alltrails
This is such a wonderful opportunity to get a breath of fresh air in the middle of the city, and it's a great family-friendly hike in Kansas.
Anna Herrera/Alltrails

The owners of Iliff Commons are the Iliff family, and you can learn more about the area from Dr. Iliff’s website.

What are some of your favorite hiking trails in Kansas? Have you ever hiked this family-friendly trail before? Let us know in the comments!

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Topeka, KS, USA