2012
Trail reviews
and photos
2011
Trail reviews
and photos
New
trails at Wyandotte
Hillsdale Lake
2010
Trail reviews
and photos
Paddling
Lake Olathe
August
26
Although this city lake is located in a residential area, it is largely undeveloped--
a plus for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a respite from the city. It proved
a nice surprise for a recent kayak outing. On a rare, cool, summer weekday,
there was no one else on the water. A few fisherman cast their lines from the
shore. We put in from a paved boat ramp on the west side of the lake and paddled
toward the inlet on the south end of the lake. Winding past some limestone
outcrops along the shore, we passed under a decorative bridge to find a waterfall.
A pair of green herons took turns working their way down the shoreline. Great
blue heron stood stoically over their own reflections.
The lake is 150 acres of water amidst 208 acres of park, which was dedicated in 1959. There are two entrances. Enter on S Lakeshore Drive to find a small developed area with primitive toilets, a playground, picnic tables, a sandy swimming beach and a paved boat ramp with parking lot. Paved roads circle the lake and lead to more secluded picnic areas and walk-in fishing access (there are two fishing docks.)
The drive surrounding the lake is somewhat scenic thanks to curves flanked sometimes by limestone outcrops and sometimes by rolling prairie hills. In winter, one may see flocks of Canada geese and ducks resting on the ice. The park road would make a challenging bike ride and a scenic walk, but there are no shoulders for safety--although little traffic finds its way onto the park roads. For hiking, the east side is more scenic. Park at a large group shelter just inside the east entrance and walk the road heading south.
Directions: Take K-7 to 135th Street (or Santa Fe) and turn west. Watch for wooden signs marked Lake Olathe which will be on your left.