Are you the type of Kansan to take a winter hike just to see the beauty of somewhere special? It’s cold and frozen out there sometimes, and for most people, the last thing you would put on your to-do list is a hike. However, check out just how beautiful this winter scene can be, because a winter hike at Clinton Lake might be just the thing you need.

Through most of the year, an amazing part of Clinton State Park’s natural beauty comes from the beauty of the hiking trails combined with the man made additions to this park.

Maria Luna/Google

A large section of their best scenery is along the North Shore trail, where you’ll not only find beautiful views over the water, but in the winter, a snowy frozen lakeside.

Christian Parish/Google

If you come near sunrise or sunset, you’ll find that everything reflects the colors of the sky. If you’re lucky, it may be a whole swath of your favorite hues.

Patrick Emerson/Flickr

When the sun hits the ice and melts the water, sheets of ice are pushed up in patterns and slices. It makes the shore into something you want to play with and rearrange, if you feel like freezing your fingers.

Greg Schonhardt/Google

When it’s really cold out and snow covers the banks, everything seems to be hushed and quiet. Listening to the ice and snow is a pastime, especially on rare days when the wind doesn’t chime in. Can you hear it now?

Kate McCormick/Google

Whether you’re here at first freeze or after a long and cold few weeks, you might see just how much winter makes things amazing.

Patrick Emerson/Flickr

Remember to never walk on frozen water, and always stay properly bundled and waterproof on your hike. We want you to enjoy it out here, not suffer frostbite!

Denny Weinmann/Google

For important information about closings, weather notices, and more, check out the KDWPT webpage for Clinton State Park.

Maria Luna/Google

Christian Parish/Google

Patrick Emerson/Flickr

Greg Schonhardt/Google

Kate McCormick/Google

Denny Weinmann/Google

Do you know of somewhere simply stunning? Tell us all about it with our suggestions box. We’re always taking new ideas! If you head out here after a snow and get some amazing photos, we’d love for you to share them in our Kansas Nature Lovers Facebook group.

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Address: Clinton State Park, 798 N 1415 Rd, Lawrence, KS 66049, USA