Questions about trail status
Questions about trail conditions
Questions about trail work
Questions about proposing new trails
Questions about allowed trail use
Why do trails close?
In the Kansas City area, muddy trails easily hold ruts from tires and feet. These ruts hold water and prevent trails from drying. Rutted trails also erode quickly. We close trails to help them last longer in good condition.
Is it really that bad to use a muddy trail?
Yes. Use of muddy trails shortens the life of the trail. It also hurts the trail community. When trails are damaged, it takes hours of volunteer work to repair them.
What if I see someone using a closed trail?
Please be polite and let them know about the trail status. Many new trail users are not aware that trails close, or why they close.
Why is clay soil so easy to erode?
Much of our KC-area soil is clay, which has very small particles. These small particles of clay can stick together easily, holding water like a pottery cup, and can also wash or blow away easily in erosion. Gravel and sand are larger particles, which let water drain through easily and are harder for water or wind to move.
What is the freeze-thaw?
In winter, a trail may freeze hard overnight but turn to slick mud in the sunshine, even if the temperatures are still low. If the trail status says, "Use when frozen," or "Freeze thaw rules apply," please leave the trail as soon as it begins to thaw.
