1
hikers
00:27
1.64km
20m
Hiking
The KCPD Trail of Heros offers a unique blend of natural beauty and profound remembrance, winding through wooded areas with native wildflowers, past a tranquil lake, and alongside prairies. You'll experience varied terrain underfoot, from grass and gravel to wood chips and paved sections, creating a dynamic yet peaceful journey. It's a serene setting for quiet contemplation, honoring the service and sacrifice of Kansas City's police officers.
This easy 1.0-mile (1.6 km) hiking route, with a gentle 81 feet (25 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 26 minutes to complete. The trail is located around the Shoal Creek Patrol Division and Police Academy campus. While specific parking information isn't detailed, it's generally accessible for visitors. It's a great option for a quick, reflective outing, especially during dry conditions.
What truly sets the KCPD Trail of Heros apart is its purpose as a living memorial, constructed by Kansas City police officers and volunteers to honor fallen officers. Along the route, you'll find dozens of benches and wooden posts, each dedicated to individual officers, including specific memorials for figures like Warren G. Jackman and James Muhlbauer. Various Eagle Scout projects also contribute unique features, adding to the trail's rich, community-driven history.
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Waypoints
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Parking
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1.64 km
End point
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
766 m
725 m
148 m
Surfaces
757 m
746 m
121 m
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Elevation
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Thursday 16 July
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22°C
85 %
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Max wind speed: 18.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
The KCPD Trail of Heroes is an easy hike, and most visitors can expect to complete the route in about 25-30 minutes. The full loop is approximately 2.75 miles long.
Yes, the trail is considered easy and is very accessible. Its grass and gravel surface, combined with minimal elevation changes, make it a great option for beginners and families looking for a pleasant outdoor experience.
The trail is located within the grounds surrounding the Shoal Creek Patrol Division and the Police Academy campus in Kansas City, Missouri. Parking is typically available on-site at the Trail of Heroes Memorial Park.
While the research doesn't explicitly state dog policies, as a public memorial park and trail, it's generally advisable to assume dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash and all waste must be picked up. Please check local signage upon arrival for specific regulations.
No, there are no permits required, and there is no entrance fee to access the KCPD Trail of Heroes or the surrounding Memorial Park. It is open to the public.
The trail can be enjoyed year-round. However, spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures for hiking and the chance to see native wildflowers in bloom. Summer can be warm, and winter may bring snow, but the trail remains accessible.
The trail features a mostly flat terrain with a surface of grass and gravel. You'll hike through a pleasant wooded environment, encountering native wildflowers, a serene lake, and local wildlife. It's a peaceful setting for reflection.
The KCPD Trail of Heroes is a memorial dedicated to fallen Kansas City police officers. Along the route, you'll find numerous benches and wooden posts memorializing individual officers. The trail is divided into two sections, honoring officers who died in the line of duty and those who passed off-duty or in retirement. You might also spot Eagle Scout projects contributing to the park's amenities.
Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Shoal Creek Trail, offering a connection to a broader network of paths in the area.
As the trail winds through a wooded area and past a lake, you may encounter various local wildlife. Common sightings could include birds, squirrels, and other small woodland creatures.
Given its easy difficulty and grass/gravel surface, comfortable walking shoes or light hiking boots are sufficient. Dress in layers appropriate for the weather, and consider bringing water, especially on warmer days. Don't forget your camera to capture the natural beauty and memorial aspects.
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