Cedar Lake Falls

Cedar Lake Park, Kansas

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Trip Date: Thursday, May 7th, 2020
Last Updated: Monday, May 11th, 2020
By Ricky Holzer

Hike Information

Rating ★★★★☆(4/5)
Overall Difficulty Easy
Navigation Difficulty     Easy
Distance 0.4 miles roundtrip
Time 20 minutes
Terrain Mostly flat
Best Seasons All
Family Friendly Yes
Dog Friendly Yes
Accessible No

Highlights

Hike Summary

As seems to be the theme with man-made lakes in Kansas, just beyond the dam at Cedar Lake Park is a small but beautiful waterfall. While the waterfall itself isn't naturally occurring since the dam diverted the creek's flow, the surrounding rocks are. As such, the falls are much more scenic than other man-made waterfalls. With less than half a mile roundtrip, you too can visit this pretty waterfall just outside of Kansas City.

The hike starts by walking across the earthen dam. This wide path provides a view of the lake as pictured below. On a sunny day, you'll probably see many people out fishing.

Murky Cedar Lake on a cloudy day

Murky Cedar Lake on a cloudy day

At the end of the dam, turn right to follow the trail rather than continuing on a concrete path. Soon, you'll be able to see the side view of Cedar Lake Falls, as pictured below.
A side view of Cedar Lake Falls

A side view of Cedar Lake Falls

At this point, there isn't really a trail anymore, and you're free to choose your own adventure. Carefully find the best route to descend the rocks to the bottom of the falls. Once at the bottom, you can continue following Cedar Creek for pretty scenery like in the first picture below. Otherwise, you can enjoy Cedar Lake Falls while sitting on a rock in the creek, as shown in the second picture below.
The lush Cedar Creek

The lush Cedar Creek

Cedar Lake Falls from below

Cedar Lake Falls from below

While there isn't much to this hike, you can continue to enjoy your visit to Cedar Lake Park by having a picnic or fishing the lake. Connect with me using the social media links below and share your adventures!



Important Information

Dogs are allowed on leash. This hike is great for kids since it is so short and provides an opportunity to play in the creek. You can visit any time of the year, just be careful during in the winter since the trail may be icy. This is a popular fishing lake, so expect to see many people here.

Directions

From Kansas City, take Interstate 35 south to Olathe, Kansas. Take the exit for Lone Elm Road, then turn right. Use the next left turn lane ahead to turn left and enter the park. Park at the end of the road near the dam.

Google Maps Directions

Parking, Fees, and Facilities

Parking is free! You will pass restrooms and picnic shelters on your drive to the dam.

Nearby Hikes

The middle falls are the most impressive
Chase Lake Falls
Kansas
★★★★☆(4/5)

External Links