Lawrence, Kansas, is one of those cute little towns where everyone knows your name. It just so happens to be one of my favorite towns in the state, with a friendly vibe and just enough to do that one shouldn't get too terribly bored.

While in Lawrence, should the outdoorsy bug bite you (same), you're in luck: there are several excellent hiking, biking, and walking trails nearby, and each one is worth it should you wander out and try 'em. Take, for instance, the stunning Lawrence Levee Trail, a ten-mile stretch of awesomeness that goes through town and shows off all the brilliant beauty of the Sunflower State.

It's pure Kansas, to say the least.

This hike will lead you on a mellow adventure atop the levee on the northern side of the Kansas River, offering up some truly breathtaking views of this awe-inspiring segment of our little corner of the world. It is truly, undeniably, objectively beautiful - and anyone who thinks Kansas is boring ought to try it out at some point (the sooner, the better, of course... but you do you).

This hike is open to visitors year-round, though my favorite time(s) to hike here tend to be during the warmer months. Views of the river and the levee dominate, with plenty of stunning Kansan fields and prairies to enjoy as well. I'm unsure which is more beautiful to me: the plains or the river. Both are excellent examples of how wonder-filled life in Kansas can be.

It's equal parts adventurous and peaceful, with plenty of time and space for a good thinking session, should you need one. You'll likely not encounter others along the way, especially if you show up early in the day during the week. Of all the coolest hikes in Kansas, this one might be the most delightfully low-key awesome.

When asked to come up with a few words off the top of my head to describe the state of Kansas, numerous things come to mind: wonder. Amazement. Majesty. The Sunflower State is the epitome of perfection, offering anyone who visits an opportunity to fall in love with the great outdoors.

For more information about this hike, you should check out the official AllTrails listing. There, you'll find all sorts of additional info - including lots more gorgeous photos and a handy-dandy map of the trail. If you're passionate about hiking, you might want to take a look at AllTrails Plus.