Getting outside in nature makes you feel good – it’s science. Maybe you like to hike, bike, forage, go on an adventure with the kids, or just get a little time to yourself in nature. No matter what, you can find a spot in or around Pittsburg to scratch that itch. Here’s a list of some of our favorite places to get some exercise and vitamin D.
23rd Street Bike Park
If you like biking on a scenic trail – the 23rd Street Bike Park is the place to go. The trail is located near the site of an abandoned coal mine, which makes for some rough and rolling terrain and tight turns. Not only that, but there’s also some great jumps if more of a roller coaster experience is your thing. If you’d prefer to walk, you can do that as well – there’s some beautiful scenery and the trails are well kept by local volunteers. You can easily spend several hours on this trail on a nice day too – it’s several miles long and offers a variety of winding paths to get through it.
Wilderness Park
A short 10-minute drive from Pittsburg, Wilderness Park was donated to the City of Pittsburg by the Casaletto family. The goal of the conservation of the park was to preserve its unique and diverse ecosystem. The park is an oasis of trees and wildlife that is very distinctive from the flat plains of southeast Kansas that surround it. There are over 4 miles of trails in the park, and this includes wetlands, forested areas, grasslands, and streams. The trails themselves vary – some are ADA accessible, and others are great for hiking or biking. The mining history of the area can also be found as well in the 4 old strip pits that now make great fishing spots.
Watco Trail
If you’re looking to take a leisurely stroll on a trail that runs through Pittsburg – the Watco Trail is a good option for you. Named after the railroad operator that’s headquartered in Pittsburg, the Watco Trail runs diagonally for approximately 2 miles through town, with several road and rail crossings along the way. The trail is fully paved, making it very accessible for anyone – from families with strollers to cyclists looking for a quick tour of the west side of Pittsburg.
PSU Walking Trail
A great trail to walk if you live at or are visiting Pitt State, the aptly named PSU Walking Trail stretches around campus for just under 4 miles. The trail is an easy one – fully paved and mostly level – it’s especially good for a morning jog or to take your dog on a walk. Highlights of this trail include the Pitt State lake, Timmons Chapel, and a myriad of other beautiful campus buildings and scenery.