Lipton Conservation Area Trail is a nice short trail near central Independence, next to Santa Fe Park. The trail is covered by gravel, so mud is usually not an issue. It consists of a 0.6 mile loop through woods and tall grass. The negatives of the trail are the short length, sound from the surrounding city, and visible infrastructure such as manholes and power lines. However, Lipton Conservation Area Trail can make for a nice escape into nature if you're in Independence.