City of Excelsior Springs

This 15-acre Natural Area consists of a north-facing forested slope overlooking the Fishing River. Isley Park Woods has a rich diversity of tree species and diverse and showy display of spring wildflowers. Of the latter, the early blooming of bloodroot is particularly eye-catching. A paved hiking trail runs along the bottom of the slope, with a more primitive natural-surface trail traversing the interior of the forest. Invasive exotic plant species – most notably garlic mustard and winter creeper euonymus – threaten this Natural Area. Vigilant spring workdays over the past five years are keeping garlic mustard in control.

Regulations:

Hours: Dawn to dusk
Pets: On leash only

Directions:

From I-35, take exit 20 to Highway 69. Stay on 69 for 9 miles to Highway 10. Stay on 10 for 2.4 miles, through Excelsior Springs. Turn right onto Lovers Lane right before the Fishing River.

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