Winter Prairie Walk- Jerry Smith Park Trail

The Resilient Activist invites you to enjoy a Winter Prairie Walk on Friday February 28th at 2pm. Meet us at 1:45pm at Jerry Smith Park Trail (13700 Prospect Ave, Kansas City, MO 64146) for a 1.4 mile walk (about 60-90 minutes) led by April Graham. April loves helping participants experience the magic of winter landscapes while nurturing mindfulness and resilience.

Registration Required for this FREE Event. REGISTER HERE.


Highlights of the Walk

The trail loops through 360 acres of native Missouri tallgrass prairie. The winter prairie is both bleak and beautiful—subject to biting winds and warm sun, often at the same time. This walk invites you to slow down, notice easily overlooked beauty, and connect with nature in its raw, winter form.

With warm beverages and good company, a winter prairie walk is fun, invigorating, and maybe a little muddy—but worry not: ticks and mosquitoes aren’t a problem this time of year


What to Wear & Recommended Accessories

  • Trail is mostly easy with a few moderate inclines; parts may be muddy or icy.
  • Wear warm, water-resistant shoes with good tread, wool or thick socks, and layered clothing.
  • Gloves/mittens, a warm coat, and a hat are essential.
  • Optional: Waterproof pants over warm pants for extra dryness.
  • Exposed hilltop: wear sunscreen and bring sunglasses.
  • Warm beverage in an insulated travel mug is encouraged.
  • Cameras/smartphones welcome—stop for photos as inspiration strikes!

“There’s no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong clothing, so get yourself a sexy raincoat and live a little.” – Billy Connolly, Scottish Comedian.

Why Nature Connection Matters

We are nature, yet modern life often creates barriers to this connection. This walk is a chance to slow down, notice, and re-establish your connection with the natural world. Spending time outdoors helps:

  • Reduce anxiety and depression
  • Improve physical health and energy
  • Inspire creativity and clarity of thought
  • Facilitate problem-solving and perspective
  • Cultivate a sense of belonging and comfort in an often lonely world

About the Leader – April Graham

April grew up exploring outdoors, guided by nature-loving parents, a labrador retriever, and two cats. She volunteered at the Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary in Liberty, MO, and has spent the past eleven years supporting graduate student experience and teaching at UMKC Bloch School of Management. Her interests include rambling walks, gardening, photography, meteor showers, audiobooks, and K-dramas on Netflix.


Registration & Notes

  • Please arrive 10 minutes early for a quick orientation.
  • The walk will proceed rain, sleet, or snow—dress appropriately!
  • Bring curiosity, a camera if you like, and a sense of wonder.