Kansas City is the proud home of some stunning hiking areas. Of course, there are more than a few trails around town for us to use, but which ones are the best? Many are so filled with so much beauty, and we think they're some of the greatest hiking trails on Earth. Did your favorite make the list?

1. White Tail Trail - Parkville Nature Sanctuary

This stunning 3-mile loop trail features a waterfall and is the perfect nature getaway in this "urban forest." However, the waterfall means it's a little more popular than other trails around Kansas City, so don't expect to have a day to yourself here.

2. Stoptler Cove Nature Trail - Wyandotte County Park

As you can see, the leaves here turn incredible colors in the fall. This trail, which is only 1.2 miles long, is a loop that you'll enjoy if you're looking for a short walk through the trees.

3. Fox Hollow Trail - Swope Park

Swope Park is the most convenient area for many Kansas Citians to get outdoors. Of course, being in the city doesn't make the natural area any less beautiful. Just look at this tiny 0.3-mile trail loop!

4. Cave Springs Trail - Cave Spring Park

Many in the KC area know of the famous Cave Springs, but have you hiked the trail? It's a 1-mile loop that features caves as well as old stone fireplaces still standing, though the houses that once surrounded them have crumbled away.

5. Maple Woods Natural Area Trail - Maple Woods Nature Preserve

Maple Woods is an apt name for this trail, and the scenery here is amazing. The moss-lined paths and forest area make this 1-mile loop a perfect little stroll.

6. Orange, Violet, and Red Trail - Shawnee Mission Park

Shawnee Mission Park is a beautiful place for any day event, and there's so many paths to take that you'll find yourself wanting to camp out and explore them over an entire weekend. Many are paved and accessible by anyone, making it the perfect place for a family hike without the extra rocks to trip over. The 7-mile loop is one of my favorites.

7. Eddy-Ballentyne Trail - Blue River Parkway

This 1.6-mile loop is moderately popular, and it's not hard to see why. The rocky shelves are great to explore and perfect for photos. I recommend a good walking stick and a decent pair of boots though, as it can be a little hard to walk with all these rocks around... at least, if you're clumsy like I am!

8. Mountain Bike Trail - Swope Park

For those who like to explore on wheels rather than on foot, this mountain bike trail in Swope Park is the best around. It's under 5 miles, so it won't take long, but the beautiful path and scenery sure slow you down a bit. It's another great place to get away from the concrete when you need to relax.

9. Larry Mattenon Memorial Trail - South Prairie Lee Park

This 4.8-mile loop is an easy trail for beginners, and it's particularly amazing if you get there early and watch the morning sunlight filtering through the trees as you walk. There are also a number of little hidden trails that make it a great place to explore if you have extra time to spare.

10. Buckeye Creek Trail - Buckeye Greenway

This little loop is under 2 miles and features a cute little bridge over the creek. It's great for wildlife spotting and for a quick getaway when you need a natural escape.

11. Parma Woods Conservation Area - Parkville, Missouri

This 1.5-mile loop is a great spot in Parkville when you don't want the popularity of White Tail Trail to cloud your peaceful day. Make sure to grab a walking stick - it is a little steep in places, but nothing you can't handle with good balance.

If your favorite trail wasn't listed, feel free to share it in the comments below! I'm always looking for new places to hike and love to hear suggestions for spots to explore!

If you're looking for even more nature spots, check out this abandoned castle where nature is slowly taking over.