The air is warm, the skies are bright, and green is all over the place. When spring starts, why not break in your hiking boots on a nice Kansas trail? Whenever I get a new pair of boots, I like to use them a little bit at a time to slowly break them in and make them more comfortable. Here are a few trails that we think would be great to start a new pair of boots with!

1. Post Oak Self-Guiding Nature Trail - Independence, Kansas

Ready to enjoy a leisurely 0.7-mile trek through the forest? Hiking in and around the trees and enjoying the view of the native timber is all we need for a great day outdoors.

2. Mine Creek Battlefield Interpretive Walking Trail - Pleasanton, Kansas

2.2 miles of light traffic loop trail means you're here for a day of exploration. The restored prairie trail is open from dawn until dusk, and perfect for a day's hike or walk.

3. Lake Lenexa via Black Hoof Trail - Olathe, Kansas

3.7 miles on this loop will not only help you break in your shoes but explore a great place with your hiking friends and family.

4. Chisholm Creek Trail - Wichita, Kansas

Take your time on this 1.7-mile hike, and it's easy to do that with beauty like this. The osage tree tunnels, natural wildlife, and preserved prairie area are always stunning in the green months.

5. Mushroom Rock Trail - Brookville, Kansas

0.2 miles isn't a lot, but sometimes all of the photos you take extend that quite a bit. After you get your photo memories with the giant mushroom taken, explore a little bit!

6. Marty Bender Nature Area Trail - Salina, Kansas

2.8 miles is sometimes the perfect amount of hiking you need in a day outdoors. This loop near Salina is great for enjoying the breeze, watching the wind touch the ground, and wildlife spotting.

7. Windmill Pasture Hilltop - Strong City, Kansas

3.6 miles of out-and-back style trail will keep you plenty busy, and we hope you enjoy the wide-open spaces here. Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve is always stunning, and there are so many different trails and areas to explore.

8. Burcham Park Trail - Lawrence, Kansas

A single mile of out-and-back trail in Burcham Park isn't too bad, especially when it's so easy to access in town. There's a nice river, and this little piece of trail to walk through is a great addition to a road trip if you need to stretch your legs.

9. Old Military Fishing - Ozawkie, Kansas

This 3-mile half-loop-half out-and-back trail will have you spending a good amount of time spotting wildlife, birdwatching, and more. Make sure you have your tick protection on, we hear that the brush is sometimes a little close to your feet.

Does your town have a little hiking trail nearby that not many know about? Share the natural Kansas love by sending your best local spots to our Nomination Page.