B Y W AY S O F
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GLACIAL HILLS Scenic Byway
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GYPSUM HILLS Scenic Byway
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LAND AND SKY Scenic Byway
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NATIVE STONE Scenic Byway
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POST ROCK Scenic Byway
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PRAIRIE TRAIL Scenic Byway
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ROUTE 66 Historic Byway
41
SMOKY VALLEY Scenic Byway
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WESTERN VISTAS Historic Byway
47 ROAD TRIP
Your map of the Kansas Byways
B Y WAY S O F
A Jeep drives along the Flint Hills National Scenic Byway and passes a reconstructed native limestone fence on the grounds of the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve near Strong City, Kansas. Photograph by Dave Leiker.
@KSByways
ON THE COVER:
@KSByways
ksbyways.org
Brad Loveless Secretary, Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks & Tourism
FRONTIER MILITARY Historic Byway
@KSByways
Julie Lorenz Secretary, Kansas Department of Transportation
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@KSByways / #KSByways / #NoPlaceLikeKS
S
ince the creation of the Kansas Byways program in the 1990s, the Kansas Department of Transportation and Kansas Tourism Division of Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism, in partnership with the Kansas Historical Society and the Federal Highway Administration, have worked collaboratively to market the state’s twelve byways. We’re proud that two of our byways have achieved national designation and are happy to partner with local byway committees in promoting travel opportunities to in- and out-of-state travelers. We invite you to explore the open road and discover for yourself how the byways draw out the wander and wonder in each of us. Use this guide to create memorable trips and experience Kansas from a different perspective. Enjoy our local hospitality, rich heritage, and be mesmerized by the beauty of our state’s diverse landscapes. We’re confident you’ll come away with a greater appreciation for the Sunflower State and hope you’ll return again and again.
WETLANDS AND WILDLIFE National Scenic Byway
ksbyways.com
Enjoy distinct journeys where the road is the destination
8
what’s
WELCOME TO THE BYWAYS
FLINT HILLS National Scenic Byway
inside
Manhattan residents Jamail Crawford and Katelyn Tyler watch the sunset from the Konza Prairie Kansas River Valley overlook on the Native Stone Scenic Byway. Photograph by Jason Dailey.
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Kansas Department of Transportation 700 SW Harrison Street Topeka, KS 66603 (785) 296-4149
Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks & Tourism 1020 S Kansas Avenue, Ste 200 Topeka, KS 66612 (800) 684-6966 Kansas Byways
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Flint Hills National Scenic Byway
3 CHASE COUNTY COURTHOUSE Cottonwood Falls The Pioneer Bluffs National Register Historic Site preserves the story and legacy of generations of cattle ranching on the Flint Hills. Explore the sites and attractions of the 12-acre historic ranch seven days a week during daylight hours. pioneerbluffs.org
on the
2 PIONEER BLUFFS Matfield Green Ranchers in this area host wild mustangs from the western United States as part of a federal conservation program. The herds are free-ranging across wide areas, but can be seen along back roads around Cassoday.
map
1 CASSODAY motorcycle RUN Cassoday The first Sunday of every month from March to October, motorcyclists gather at Cassoday. The tradition began in 1991 with a small group of friends and continues as a gathering of thousands of enthusiasts. cassodaybikerun.org
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T
he Flint Hills are rightfully regarded as a national treasure because they preserve some of the last areas of native prairie grasslands that once grew abundantly across the nation’s central plains. A trip along the Flint Hills National Scenic Byway allows you to appreciate and explore the pristine natural beauty of this land, and it also offers a journey through small communities and ranches thriving on the land. The southern end of the byway begins at Cassoday, an old cattle railroad town surrounded by rich grasslands. This area is known for being a prime spot for prairie chickens whose spring mating dances attract birders from across the nation, so keep an eye out for the birds as you travel north. Depending on the season, you might also see a controlled prairie grass burns, cattle migrations or hills full of wildflowers. The rolling landscape, with its lush grassland, is one of the highlights of this byway, with beautiful views all along the route. While the towns on this byway grew with the railroad and cattle trade, they continue to flourish as rural centers and cultural destinations. Matfield Green hosts an innovative art gallery; Cottonwood Falls boasts a picturesque courthouse; Strong City has a beautifully restored railroad depot; and Council Grove hosts art venues and restaurants. Also along the byway is the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve with its 40 miles of hiking trails, historic ranch house and daily bus tours deep into bison pastures and grasslands. The family-friendly venue with expert guides provides a perfect overview of this unique land, its history and the sustainability of its future.
ksbyways.org
CHASE STATE fishing LAKE AND WATERFALL Near Cottonwood Falls This beautiful lake sits just west of Cottonwood Falls on Lake Road. Visitors without mobility concerns can follow the trail on the eastern edge of the dam that will soon snake around the waterfalls. Depending on weather conditions, the path can be slippery. chasecountychamber.org/chase-county-lake 5 LOWER fox CREEK SCHOOL Strong City On the grounds of the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, this 1880s stone schoolhouse is maintained in its working condition, and park rangers often host programs focusing on the curriculum and realities of rural one-room schoolhouses. nps.gov/tapr 6 TALLGRASS PRAIRIE NATIONAL PRESERVE Strong City This is an absolutely essential stop along the byway for its natural scenic beauty and educational programs. The more than 10,000 acres of preserved land and the trails through it offer insight into the region’s natural ecosystem while a former working ranch at the center of the park allows visitors to learn about the history of cattle ranching and daily life in the region. nps.gov/tapr 7 FLINT HILLS TRAIL STATE PARK Council Grove The northern end of the Flint Hills National Scenic Byway intersects another route, the Flint Hills Trail State Park. Running east to Osawatomie, this trail will be 117 miles when fully completed. The biking, hiking and equestrian pathway created as a rail-to-trail project that offers scenic beauty through the heart of the Flint Hills. ksoutdoors.com/state-parks/locations/ flint-hills-trail Kansas Byways
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about the
byway
Flint Hills National Scenic Byway
additional
GETTING THERE
The Flint Hills National Scenic Byway runs on Kansas Highway 177, from Cassoday (the intersection of Kansas Highway 177 and Interstate 35) in the south to Council Grove (intersection of Kansas Highway 177 and US Highway 56) in the north. LENGTH THE CHASE COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM AND LIBRARY
FLINT HILLS RODEO
Cottonwood Falls (620) 273-8500 ksgenweb.org/society/ cottonwd RONIGER MUSEUM
Cottonwood Falls (620) 273-6423 SYMPHONY IN THE FLINT HILLS
Cottonwood Falls symphonyintheflinthills.org
47.2 miles
Strong City
COUNCIL GROVE RESERVOIR
Council Grove (620)767-5195 swt.usace.army.mil
TIME TO TRAVEL
STRONG CITY DEPOT & RAILROAD MUSEUM
KAW MISSION STATE HISTORICAL SITE
ROADWAY
Approximately 55 minutes without stops
Strong City W.B. STRONG MEMORIAL RAILROAD PARK
Strong City
Council Grove kawmission.org
ALLEGAWAHO MEMORIAL HERITAGE PARK
Council Grove kawmission.org
Kansas Highway 177 WHEN TO SEE
Summer for the wildflowers, spring for prairie burns, but all seasons, including winter, for historic sites and shopping stops SERVICES
Gas, food and lodging RESOURCES
Butler County Tourism (800) 278-3697 tourbutlercountyks.com Chase County Chamber of Commerce (620) 273-8469 chasecountychamber.org
COMPLETE LISTING The above listings are only a portion of the attractions along this byway. For a complete and regularly updated listings of amenities, including destinations, lodging, restaurants, shops and events along the Flint Hills National Scenic Byway, go online at travelks.com/ksbyways/flint-hills/points-of-interest-amenities.
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Kansas Byways
Council Grove/Morris County Tourism (620) 767-5413 councilgrove.com ksbyways.org
DISCOVER the Flint Hills
www.TravelKS.com/Flint-Hills
Captivating culture, enchanting ecosystems & lavish landscapes. Explore the Flint Hills through interactive & immersive exhibits!
Take the scenic road! 315 S. 3rd St. | MANHATTAN, KS 66502
Council Grove
EXPERIENCE THE FLINT HILLS LIFE
With every end, there is a beginning THE FLINT HILLS NATIONAL SCENIC BYWAY Join us in 2021 to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the santa fe trail Follow us for all the latest news and events
WWW.COUNCILGROVE.COM • 620-767-5413
FLINTHILLSDISCOVERY.ORG
ksbyways.org
Wetlands and Wildlife National Scenic Byway
T
he Wetlands and Wildlife National Scenic Byway is first and foremost a showcase of the two marshlands that attract and shelter hundreds of thousands of migrating birds. Even if you are not an avid birder, any visitor along this byway will want to leave plenty of time to explore and appreciate Cheyenne Bottoms, the nation’s largest inland marsh, and the Quivira National Wildlife Refuge, a rare habitat of salt marshes whose avian visitors fill the skies during seasonal migrations. Much of the history of the marshlands can be learned at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center, a branch of Fort Hays State University. The nearby nature trail also takes visitors through a wooded area with songbirds, monarch butterflies and even foxes. The mostly small and rural communities in this area began as agricultural regions and stopping points for the Santa Fe Trail and then railroads. Much of this history is told at the Barton County Historical Society Museum in Great Bend. The museum complex includes a small village of late 19th- and early 20th-century buildings, including a church, a railroad depot, and a school. Drive through the charming town of Claflin, the geographical center of Kansas, then stop by the Stafford County Flour Mill in Hudson before settling in for sunset views over one of the two marshlands. This is a unique ecosystem in the nation and rewards visitors with repeat visits at different times of the year.
on the
2 GREAT BEND BRIT SPAUGH ZOO Great Bend This free city zoo features grizzly bears, lions and many more animals, along with a raptor center dedicated to rehabilitation of birds. Located near the center of the city, it is surrounded by a green area and the grounds are easily accessible. greatbendks.net/84/Zoo
map
1 CHEYENNE BOTTOMS Near Great Bend Containing a wildlife area, preserve and education center, the more than 40,000 acres of the Cheyenne Bottoms constitute the nation’s largest interior marshland. Hundreds of birds make this their home year round, but tens of thousands more arrive during seasonal migrations: cranes, ducks and geese in the early spring; shorebirds in the late spring; and hundreds of mixed species during the fall. You can arrive at any time for wonderful views and birding, or call in advance to arrange for a guided tour through the education center. ksoutdoors.com (for Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area), nature.org (for Cheyenne Bottoms Preserve) and wetlandscenter.fhsu.edu (for the education center).
3 HISTORIC WOLF HOTEL Ellinwood In addition to a hotel and event space, this venue features a popular Prohibition-themed bar, in-house theater and connections to the last public areas of the city’s network of underground shops and venues (plus saloons and brothels) that thrived from the late 1800s to the 1920s. historicwolfhotel.com 4 HUDSON FLOUR FESTIVAL Hudson Now continued as the Hudson Cream Bake Fest and incorporated into the Stafford County Fair, this annual event is a chance for residents to celebrate the area’s grain and wheat heritage. The sponsor, Hudson Cream Flour, has been a mainstay in the agricultural community and has lately integrated another abundant Kansas resource—wind power—into its operations. hudsoncream.com 5 QUIVIRA NATIONAL wildlife REFUGE Rural Stafford County The 22,000 acres of this federal preserve are unique in that they rest on a bed of salt, which gives the water a saline quality that greatly affects the plants that grow in this area and nourishes the hundreds of thousands of migrating birds. Spring and fall seasonal migrations are the best time to view cranes and other birds among the more than 300 species officially observed here. Bird watchers can take advantage of pull-outs and photo blinds, plus an observation tower rising eight feet above the land. fws.gov/refuge/Quivira Kansas Byways
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about the
byway
Wetlands and Wildlife National Scenic Byway
additional
GETTING THERE
Take U.S. Highway 281 south from Interstate 70 to begin at the northern part of the byway, just west of Hoisington. LENGTH
77 miles TIME TO TRAVEL NATIONAL HISTORIC CHEVROLET BUILDING AND SIGN
Hoisington (620) 653-2121 UNDERGROUND TUNNELS
Ellinwood (620) 617-6915 ellinwoodchamber.com
STAFFORD COUNTY MUSEUM
HOISINGTON POST OFFICE MURAL
90 minutes
Stafford (620) 234-5664 staffordcounty.org/museum
Hoisington (620) 653-4311 hoisingtonkansas.com
ROADWAY
BARTON COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM
KANSAS QUILT WALK, BRONZE SCULPTURES, & GREAT BEND MURAL PROJECT
Great Bend (620) 793-5125 batoncountymuseum.org
Great Bend visitgreatbend.com
Kansas Highway 156, Kansas Highway 4, U.S. Highway 281, and paved roads in Barton, Stafford and Reno counties. WHEN TO SEE
All seasons, although the best seasons are spring, fall and summer.
SHAFER ART GALLERY
Great Bend (620) 792-9342 bartonccc.edu/community/ shafergallery
SERVICES
Gas, food and lodging RESOURCES
Wetlands and Wildlife National Scenic Byway kansaswetlandsand wildlifescenicbyway.com The Great Bend Convention and Visitors Bureau (620) 792-2750 visitgreatbend.com Barton County (620) 793-1800 kansaswetlandsand wildlifescenicbyway.com
COMPLETE LISTING The above listings are only a portion of the attractions along this byway. For a complete and regularly updated listings of amenities, including destinations, lodging, restaurants, shops and events along the Wetlands and Wildlife National Scenic Byway, go online at travelks.com/ksbyways/ /wetlands-wildlife and kansaswetlandsandwildlifescenicbyway.com.
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Kansas Byways
Stafford County Economic Development (620) 549-3527 staffordecodevo.com ksbyways.org
n i s w e i V e h t y o j n E y t n u o C n a m r e h S
785-821-0403 VisitGoodland.com • Director@VisitGoodland.com #visitgoodland Visit Goodland
@visitgoodland.com
11-5pm Wednesday - Saturday and 12-5pm Sunday
Now taking reservations at somersetridge.com
Begin your Western Vistas Historic Byway Tour Fossils to Frontier & Wildlife to Warriors EL QUARTELEJO MUSEUM: Fossils Meet the Frontier Fossils from the inland sea, interactive displays, early Indian scenes and artifacts Replica & History of El Quartelejo Pueblo
www.elquartelejomuseum.org JERRY THOMAS GALLERY & COLLECTION: Where Art and History Tell a Story
Historic displays, gift shop, renowned guided Historical Byways Bus Tour
COME EXPLORE 380 ACRES OF CHALLENING OFF-ROAD TRAILS FOR SLOW-SPEED 4-WHEEL DRIVE VEHICLES*, UTV’S, BICYCLES & HIKERS *No ATV’s or Motorcycles allowed
www.jerrythomasartgallery.com
Wildlife, Western Heritage, Native American & U.S. Cavalry Art and More
Amazing Artifacts from Native Americans, Battle of Little Big Horn, Civil War, Cowboy Trails, and Battle of Punished Woman’s Fork
902 W. HigHWay 96, Scott city, KanSaS 67871 | (620) 872-5912 tueSday – Saturday, 1:00 – 5:00 or by appointment.
35 Miles of Trails | 3 Levels of Difficulty | Picnic Shelters with Grills Playground & New Campground | Restrooms & New Shower House | Large Parking Lot
2051 130th Road | Maleton, KS
ksrockspark.com
map
on the
Frontier Military Historic Byway
1 BIG BRUTUS West Mineral A gigantic, 160-foot (49-meter) tall electrical shovel, the largest remaining in the world, looms over the land it once mined. Climb into the engineer’s seat of this imposing centerpiece attraction for a museum dedicated to the region’s mining heritage. BigBrutus.org 2 FRIED CHICKEN OF CRAWFORD COUNTY Various locations Over the past decades, Crawford County has won a reputation for being the spot in the state to go for fried chicken. No fewer than six independent fried chicken restaurants thrive, each with a unique history. visitcrawfordcounty.com/eat/friedchicken 3 GORDON PARKS MUSEUM Fort Scott Located on the Fort Scott Community College campus, this museum explores the life and work of one of the state’s most celebrated photographers and film directors. The museum also has portions of its space dedicated to the history of the city’s Black community. gordonparkscenter.org 4 FORT SCOTT NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE Fort Scott This national park preserves 20 historic buildings from an 1840s fort complex. Interactive exhibits also tell the story of daily life for Indigenous people, abolitionists, formerly enslaved, and Southern sympathizers around Fort Scott from 1842–1873. nps.gov/fosc 5
MINE CREEK CIVIL WAR BATTLEFIELD STATE HISTORIC SITE Near Pleasanton Interpretive panels, trails and a museum mark the spot where Union troops, including many soldiers from Kansas, routed Confederate forces retreating from their unsuccessful campaign to turn border state Missouri officially to the Southern cause. kshs.org/p/mine-creek-civil-war-battlefield/19567 6 KAW POINT Kansas City Now surrounded by urban growth, this small park marks the spot where, in 1804, explorers Lewis and Clark directed their crew to make camp. Located at the confluence of the Kansas and Missouri rivers, this was the starting point for the expedition that sought to trace the path of the Missouri and establish a path to the Pacific Ocean. lewisandclarkwyco.org 7 BUFFALO SOLDIER MONUMENT Fort Leavenworth This is an inspiring monument to the Black cavalry and foot soldiers who joined the U.S. Army and were often sent into the West to suppress Indigenous people in the name of a nation that did not fully accept them. The monument is on the grounds of the active Fort Leavenworth military base, which includes a museum and historical sites open to the public. Visitors must pass through security and present identification. home.army.mil/leavenworth/index.php/about/visitor-information
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Kansas Byways
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he state’s eastern border was shaped by exploration and conflict. As EuroAmerican settlers moved westward into the Kansas Territory in the mid-1800s, supply and transportation routes supported their settlements and a network of military forts protected them. This was also the time of Bleeding Kansas, when pro-slavery raiders from Missouri swept into the territory and battled settlers intent on bringing Kansas into the Union as a free state. The Frontier Military Historic Byway, the longest of the state byways, allows visitors to explore that history while also taking a route through a scenic landscape crossing three distinct physiographic regions: the ore-rich hills of the Cherokee lowlands, the terraced slopes of the Osage cuestas and the stream-laden lowlands and woodlands of the glaciated regions. Of course, this populated region of the state is also one with many modern attractions, restaurants and conveniences. Consider exploring this byway on an extended trip or in sections to enjoy all of it. ksbyways.org
additional
about the
byway GETTING THERE
LENGTH
168 miles TIME TO TRAVEL
ARTFORMS GALLERY
3 hours without stops
Pittsburg (620) 240-0165 artforms-gallery.com
ROADWAY
U.S. Highway 69, north and south, and Kansas Highway 5 WHEN TO SEE
All seasons SERVICES
Gas, food and lodging
MINERS HALL MUSEUM FOUNDATION
Franklin (620) 347-4220 MinersHallMuseum.com
MARAIS DES CYGNES WILDLIFE AREA & MARAIS DES CYGNES NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE
Pleasanton ksoutdoors.com FWS.gov/refuge/marais_ des_cygnes
JOHNSON COUNTY MUSEUM
Overland Park (913) 715-2550 JoCoGov.org/dept/museum/ home
Frontier Military Historic Byway
Located along the eastern edge of Kansas, the Frontier Military Byway runs south to north from Baxter Springs to Leavenworth, mostly along Highway 69. Access communities include Leavenworth, Merriam, Louisburg, Pleasanton, Fort Scott, Pittsburg and Baxter Springs.
FORT LEAVENWORTH NATIONAL CEMETERY
Leavenworth (913) 727-1376 Cem.va.gov/cems/nchp/ ftleavenworth.asp
RESOURCES
Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area (785) 856-5300 freedomsfrontier.org Crawford County CVB (800) 879-1112 visitcrawfordcounty.com Fort Scott CVB (620) 670-2750 visitfortscott.com Kansas City, Kansas Tourism (800) 264.1563 visitkansascityks.com Leavenworth CVB (913) 758-2948 visitleavenworthks.com ksbyways.org
COMPLETE LISTING The above listings are only a portion of the attractions along this byway. For a complete and regularly updated listings of amenities, including destinations, lodging, restaurants, shops and events along the Frontier Military Historic Byway, go online at travelks.com/ksbyways/frontier-military. Kansas Byways
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Kansas Byways
ksbyways.org
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ksbyways.org
Glacial Hills Scenic Byway
T
he Glacial Hills Scenic Byway is a short run of some 62 miles, extending from Leavenworth to White Cloud. But think of the journey less as a straight line plotted by your GPS and more as a chance to explore the course of the Missouri River, some of the state’s earliest settlements that grew up alongside it and the natural beauty of this region. Arriving in Leavenworth, be sure to stop at North Esplanade Street to enjoy the view of the Missouri River from the state’s first park and appreciate the volume and strength of the waters that shaped this region and churned up the soil that created the area’s rich farmlands and rolling hills. Depending on the time of day that you begin your journey, you can stop by downtown Leavenworth for a morning bite or lunch before heading on the byway to Atchison. The 22 miles north along Kansas Highway 7/US Highway 73 takes you through farmland and small communities that grew up as part of the westward expansion into Kansas in the mid-1800s. Atchison was a key starting point for settlers and grew into a business hub with a rich history that includes an aviation legend, important cultural stops and several ghost stories. If you have only a limited amount of time, stop by the town’s riverfront Veterans Memorial Park (adjacent to the Lewis and Clark Pavilion and Riverfront Walk). As the byway and the river part, the road makes a short jaunt into Troy—a small community well worth a stop to see Peter Toth’s impressive courthouse-yard sculpture (part of a project with sister sculptures in every state and dedicated to the nation’s Native communities). Troy was once the first Kansas stop along the Pony Express route, and several historic buildings remain, including the Nelson Rodgers House, believed to be the location of President Abraham Lincoln’s overnight stay in 1859. From Troy, follow the byway north as it runs almost parallel to the course of the river. This is great birding territory, so keep your eyes open, particularly if you detour into the back roads east of Highway 7. Soon, you will come to White Cloud, a city overlooking the Missouri River whose name can be traced back to a leader of the Ioway (or Iowa) people. In fact, the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska has its administrative headquarters just northwest of the city. After exploring or driving through the area, be sure to end your trip with a view from Four State Lookout—a chance for a final, breathtaking overview of the wide, sweeping expanse of the Missouri River and its impact on the land in this region.
AMELIA EARHART BIRTHPLACE MUSEUM Atchison See where the famous pilot spent much of her childhood and explore artifacts and historical items related to her career. ameliaearhartmuseum.org
on the
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map
C.W. PARKER CAROUSEL MUSEUM Leavenworth A restored and working 1913 Parker CarryUs-All carousel is the star of this museum dedicated to carousel history and artifacts. Located just off the waterfront at 320 S. Esplanade St. firstcitymuseums.org/carousel
3 HAUNTED ATCHISON Atchison For some, the legacy of this town at the gateway of westward expansion is a preponderance of paranormal incidents and legends. Choose from several opportunities to experience the city’s past, including seasonal trolley tours, walking tours, mansion tours, overnight stays at the infamous Sallie House, and more. visitatchison.com/haunted-atchison/ 4 TALL OAK INDIAN MONUMENT Troy This sculpture is part of the “Trail of the Sleeping Giants” series of sculptures spread across the United States and created by Hungarian-American artist Peter Toth as a tribute to North American Indigenous nations. Look for the sculpture in front of the county courthouse at 120 E. Chestnut St. troykansas.com 5 Wilbur Chapman Monument White Cloud This plaque commemorates the young White Cloud resident credited with the invention of the piggy bank. Look for the monument on the west side of Main Street, just off of Highway 7. dpcountyks.com 6 FOUR STATE LOOKOUT White Cloud Follow signs uphill from Third Street to arrive at the viewing platform and its scenic overlook of the Missouri River and four-state region. Access might be difficult for some during inclement weather. travelks.org/listing/4-statelookout/1310 Kansas Byways
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about the
Glacial Hills Scenic Byway
additional
byway GETTING THERE
In the northeast corner of Kansas, the byway runs from Leavenworth and heads north through Atchison and Troy into White Cloud. LENGTH
63 miles NORTH ESPLANADE PARK
Leavenworth (913) 651-2203 lvks.org
TIME TO TRAVEL
CARROLL MANSION
ROADWAY
Leavenworth (913) 682-7759 leavenworthhistory.org
US Highway 73 and Kansas Highway 7, north and south
AMELIA EARHART HANGAR MUSEUM
WHEN TO SEE
Atchison (913) 367-2427 ameliaearharthangarmuseum.org BENEDICTINE COLLEGE, ST. BENEDICT’S ABBEY
Atchison (913) 367-7853 kansasmonks.org benedictine.edu RIVERFRONT POINTS OF INTEREST
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Approximately 75 minutes without stops
Spring for birding and fall for foliage, but also possible at any season, including winter, given the number of attractions along the way. SERVICES
Gas, food and lodging RESOURCES
Glacial Hills RC&D (785) 608-8801
Atchison (913) 367-7427 visitatchison.com
Visit Atchison (913) 367-2427 visitatchison.com
NELSON ROGERS HOME
Troy (785) 988-0796
Visit Leavenworth (913) 758-2948 visitleavenworthks.com
COMPLETE LISTING The above listings are only a portion of the destinations along this byway. For a complete and regularly updated listings of amenities, including destination sites, lodgings, places to eat, shops and events along the Glacial Hills Scenic Byway, go online at travelks.com/ksbyways/glacial-hills/points-of-interest-amenities.
Doniphan County dpcountyks.com/touristattractions
Kansas Byways
ksbyways.org
Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway
on the
map
1
Carry Nation Home and Stockade Museum Medicine Lodge Visit the home of one of Kansas’ most infamous characters, Carry A. Nation, who supported the temperance movement in the late 19th and early 20th century. The museum, housed in Nation’s former home, includes authentic furnishings and memorabilia—including one of her hatchets. At the stockade, find tour a replicated log cabin and a jail cell from 1886. medicinelodgestockade.org 2
Gypsum Hills Trail Rides Medicine Lodge Take off on horseback for the weekend or just for the day. The trails are available for open riding and camping with advance registration. Riders must provide their own mount, tack, feed, camping gear and meals. Events and organized group rides are available on the ranch website. Guided rides upon request. gypsumhillstrailrides.com 3 Caprock Formations This byway is marked by geologic wonders, including gypsum caprock formations. Travel the length of the byway to watch the landscape shift from red hills to high plains, and pause at one of the numerous scenic stops along the way to take in these beautiful landmarks. 4
Comanche County Historical Museum Coldwater Learn about the largest cattle operation in Kansas history and explore the many objects preserving the history of the people of Comanche County. (620) 582-2108 5 Lake Coldwater Coldwater Cool off at this man-made lake, which allows boating, jet-skiing and fishing. Camper hookups are available, along with primitive campsites for tent camping. Hikers can enjoy the park’s nature trail and picnic facilities. coldwaterks.org/coldwater-lake.html
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Kansas Byways
T
he Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway, running east and west, showcases distinctive red soil and topographic wonders such as buttes, canyons, mesas and sinkholes. Travel along Highway 160 from Medicine Lodge to Coldwater for stunning views, including pastures full of red cedars, the only juniper native to Kansas. For an unpaved adventure, add on the Gyp Hills Scenic Drive, just west of Medicine Lodge. The rough 22-mile detour runs through an open range where you may encounter local ranchers on horseback tending their cattle. Equine enthusiasts with their own horses can join an organized tour with Gypsum Hills Trail Rides west of Medicine Lodge. For visitors without horses, the ranch offers ample hiking and camping opportunities. This slice of south-central Kansas is home to plenty of wild animals. Among the native grasses and brilliant wildflowers you’re likely to come across deer, pheasant, quail, prairie chickens, coyotes and turkeys, even perhaps an armadillo or a bobcat. Bison herds once roamed this area, home to the Apache, Arapaho, Cheyenne, Comanche, and Kiowa people. The area’s Indigenous people signed a treaty with the United States in 1867, which the town of Medicine Lodge celebrates with the Peace Treaty Festival each September. This annual gathering includes parades, historical re-enactments, a powwow, and the Kansas Championship Ranch Rodeo. Every three years, the festival includes the Medicine Lodge Peace Treaty Pageant, a large-scale celebration of Native cultures and exploration of 300 years of Native history. ksbyways.org
additional
about the
byway GETTING THERE
LENGTH
WHEN TO SEE
42 miles
Spring and fall
TIME TO TRAVEL
SERVICES
43 minutes, without stops
Gas, food and lodging
ROADWAY
RESOURCES
Kansas Highway 160
Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway (620) 886-5293
PEACE TREATY PAGEANT
Medicine Lodge (620) 886-9815 peacetreaty.org
BARBER STATE FISHING LAKE
Medicine Lodge (620) 886-3908
SAGEBRUSH GALLERY OF WESTERN ART
CHIEF THEATER
Medicine Lodge (620) 886-5163
Coldwater (620) 582-2705
COMPLETE LISTING The above listings are only a portion of the destinations along this byway. For a complete and regularly updated listings of amenities, including destinations, lodging, restaurants, shops and events along the Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway, go online at travelks.com/ksbyways/gypsum-hills/ points-of-interest-amenities.
Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway
The Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway runs either east or west, from Medicine Lodge to Coldwater. From the west, the byway can be accessed by U.S. Highway 183 south from U.S. Highway 54. From the east, take U.S. Highway 281 south from U.S. Highway 54.
Land and Sky Scenic Byway
St. Francis Motorcycle Museum St. Francis Explore more than 100 years of motorcycle history. This museum is home to 130 different motorcycles, ranging from rare historic bikes to perfectly kept models from legacy manufacturers such as Harley-Davidson and Honda. 115 East Washington Street, St. Francis (785) 332-2400 stfrancismotorcyclemuseum.org
on the
2
map
1 Arikaree Breaks Cheyenne County This 36-mile stretch of ravines, hills and gullies is home to unique Kansas wildlife and native plants. This area offers exciting views of the austere and beautiful terrain.
3 St. Francis Wildlife Area St. Francis Outdoor enthusiasts can spot spring and Rio Grande turkey, white-tailed and mule deer, pheasants and quail. The Republican River cuts through the area, offering excellent opportunity for anglers to catch channel catfish, largemouth bass and bluegill.
T
he Land and Sky Scenic Byway runs north and south through Cheyenne, Sherman and Wallace counties. Aptly named, this byway provides an unparalleled perspective of open sky through badlands and plains. With a focus on agricultural heritage, the Land and Sky Scenic Byway explores a farm-rich area with abundant crops of wheat and sunflowers. The Arikaree Breaks, found along the northern portion of this byway at the edge of Cheyenne County, stretch for 36 miles and are approximately 3 miles wide. These geologic anomalies were formed some 10,000 years ago by ancient waterways. Today the canyons and hills found in the Breaks offer an unexpected Kansas landscape streaked with buffalo grass, sage, prickly pear cactus and yucca plants. Traveling this byway is the perfect escape for road adventurers, history enthusiasts and folks looking for a slice of midcentury Americana. If you’re interested in a bit of art and culture, Goodland is an excellent stop in the middle of the byway route. Known for its larger-than-life rendition of Vincent Van Gogh’s Three Sunflowers in a Vase, the town is also dotted with murals depicting the area’s history. Military and aviation enthusiasts will enjoy a stop at the High Plains Museum in Goodland to see the first patented helicopter, the Kidder Fight historic marker at Kuhrt Farm just outside of Goodland, and the Fort Wallace Museum and Cemetery just south of Wallace. Follow the byway south to summit Mt. Sunflower, the highest topographical point in Kansas, located in Weskan. And no road trip is complete without a meal at a classic diner, such as Towns End Tavern in Sharon Springs, a unique eatery featuring made-from-scratch, upscale dishes.
ksbyways.org
4 High Plains Museum Goodland This museum is home to more than 8,000 objects, telling the rich history of the people of Sherman County. (785) 890-4595 highplainsmuseum.org 5
The Big Easel and Van Gogh Painting Goodland It’s hard to miss the 80-foot-tall easel and largescale replica of Van Gogh’s Three Sunflowers in a Vase, located in Pioneer Park. The painting was created by artist Cameron Cross as part of a project to erect seven such larger-than-life Van Gogh reproductions around the world. 6
SMOKY GARDENS SOLDIERS MEMORIAL Near Goodland A tribute to the nation’s veterans in a beautiful park providing camping grounds, a fishing pond, playground and picnic shelter. 7 Mount Sunflower Wallace County This topographic point claims the highest altitude in the state—4,039 feet above sea level. Located on private property, but open to visitor access, the site is marked by a metal sunflower and sign. Kansas Byways
23
additional Land and Sky Scenic Byway
about the
byway GETTING THERE CARNEGIE ARTS CENTER
Goodland (785) 890-6442 goodlandarts.org
KIDDER MASSACRE SITE
Goodland (785) 890-3513 visitgoodland.com/kidder/
FORT WALLACE MUSEUM AND CEMETERY
Wallace (785) 891-3564 ftwallace.com
SHERMAN THEATRE ENNIS-HANDY HOUSE
Goodland (785) 890-3515 visitgoodland.com/ennishandy-house
Goodland (785) 899- 6103 goodlandnet.com/movies
Interstate 70, Exit 17, U.S. Highway 36, U.S. Highway 40. All three highways cross the scenic byway. LENGTH
88 miles MT. SUNFLOWER BED & BREAKFAST & RETREAT CENTER
Sharon Springs (785) 852-4004
TIME TO TRAVEL
1.5 hours without stops ROADWAY
Kansas Highway 27 WHEN TO SEE
Summer through fall to catch the harvest season SERVICES
Gas, food and lodging RESOURCES
Cheyenne County Development Corporation (785) 332-3508 ccdcks.com Sherman County Convention & Visitors Bureau (785) 821-4170 visitgoodland.com
COMPLETE LISTING The above listings are only a portion of the destinations along this byway. For a complete and regularly updated listings of amenities, including destination sites, lodgings, places to eat, shops and events along the Land & Sky Byway, go online at www.travelks.com/ksbyways/land-sky/points-of-interest-amenities.
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Kansas Byways
Wallace County Visitors Bureau (785) 891-3564 travelwallacecounty.com ksbyways.org
S C E N I C
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landandskyscenicbyway.com 785-821-4170 785-821-4170 785-332-3508 785-332-3508 State Border785-821-4170 Airfield Paved Road785-332-3508 785-821-4170 785-332-3508
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Byway Information
Tour Location
Sunflower Mt. Mt. Mt. Sunflower Sunflower Mt.Sunflower CrimsonCloud Road feet feet feet 4,039 4,039 4,039 Elevation Elevation Elevation feet 4,039 Elevation
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27
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Rd. 5
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Rd. 32
Tri-State Antique
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McCarty Dairy
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Rd. 32
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27
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Rd. 32 Rd. 32
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Fort Wallace Post Cemetery 21st Century Bean
McCarty Dairy
Native Stone Scenic Byway
2 LAKE WABAUNSEE Rural Wabaunsee County Created as a WPA project, the area around this spring-fed lake once housed German POWs during World War II. Lake Wabaunsee has several rental lots for campers and public boating, fishing and swimming is allowed. Wild Olives Restaurant, formerly The Lodge, is open for dinner in the evening and is well known for its Fried Chicken dinners on Wednesday evenings. You can enjoy a round of golf at Wabaunsee Pines Golf Course. lakewabaunsee.com
on the
ksbyways.org
1 ECHO CLIFF PARK Near Dover Head one mile south from K-4 on Echo Cliff Road to arrive at the stunning view of the Echo Cliff sandstone bluff. This area also offers Mission Creek, short trails, picnic tables and a small shelter house.
map
T
he Native Stone Scenic Byway is a nearly 75-mile route exploring a landscape and history unique to Kansas. For less active travelers, this byway offers scenic views and the opportunity to stop for sightseeing, dining or shopping along the way. For moderate or more active travelers, the Native Stone Scenic Byway offers numerous opportunities to set out on trail walks and explore natural formations. Starting in the eastern section of the byway, at K-4 and Glick Road, approximately 6 miles northeast of Dover, you can fuel up with a meal at Connie’s Corner Café, in Dover, the new manifestation of a traditional diner which has received national recognition for its coconut cream pies. You’ll have a chance to work off the meal with your first stop at Echo Cliff Park, where you will find a magnificent bluff of sandstone rising 75 feet above the meandering Mission Creek. The byway continues through Eskridge then passes Lake Wabaunsee, a spring-fed recreational and residential lake which was a WPA Project. Once the byway turns back to the north, on K-99, you’ll see more traditional stone fencing, limestone barns and fields of grass and stone—look for controlled prairie burns in the spring as ranchers and landowners follow the traditional approach to replenishing the prairie grass and nutrients. The history, culture and architecture of the area were greatly shaped by the bedrock of some eight million acres of limestone lying just underneath the surface, as you can see once more when you come into Alma, whose historic limestone homes and buildings rightfully earn it the title of “The City of Native Stone.” Alma’s downtown is on the National Register of Historic Places and contains several nice shops and attractions such as the Wabaunsee County Historical Museum. You can also stop just east of the downtown area at Alma’s famous creamery for fresh cheese. Miles north of Alma on K-99, the byway passes Mount Mitchell Heritage Prairie Park. Enjoy an abundance of birds and wildflowers on this 45-acre park as you hike trails which take you through a landscape containing ruts from a mid– to late–1800s Underground Railroad route was used to transport enslaved people to freedom. The state’s Free State heritage and fight against slavery in the 1850s is also commemorated at Beecher Bible and Rifle Church, a limestone church whose name reflects its heritage. An 1850s abolitionist, Henry Ward Beecher (brother of Uncle Tom’s Cabin author, Harriet Beecher Stowe) and his congregation, supported anti-slavery communities with a shipment of Bibles and funds to purchase Sharp’s rifles, during the turbulent Bloody Kansas years leading up to the American Civil War. The byway offers an opportunity to stop by Manhattan, a vibrant college town, to enjoy its cultural and dining attractions. You will also want to stop off at the Flint Hills Discovery Center for information about the natural ecosystem, which you can then enjoy in person at the Konza Prairie, a native tallgrass prairie preserve just along the byway, on K-177, southeast of Manhattan. The Konza Prairie offers a well-maintained overlook and public walking trails leading to spectacular vistas of the rolling hills.
3 CONTROLLED PRAIRIE BURNS Various locations along the byway Look for controlled prairie burns, particularly during the spring. Ranchers and landowners conduct these burns as a natural way of controlling and replenishing the growth of prairie grass. You can also learn more about controlled prairie burns at the Flint Hills Discovery Center. 4 MOUNT MITCHELL HERITAGE PRAIRIE PARK Rural Wabaunsee County A nature preserve whose hiking trails takes visitors to a hilltop view of the surrounding prairie as well as to a historical information sign commemorating the region’s connections to the underground railroad network. mountmitchellprairie.org 5 BEECHER BIBLE AND RIFLE CHURCH Wabaunsee Completed with native limestone in 1862, this church traces its founding back to a group of abolitionists who were prepared to defend themselves against the spread of slavery into Kansas. Free tours (donations accepted) of the church are available by calling in advance (785) 617-1300. The congregation and community also gather every year on the last Sunday in August for an annual Settlers Day celebration. 6 FLINT HILLS DISCOVERY CENTER Manhattan This family-friendly, interactive educational museum explores the history and heritage of the Flint Hills region. flinthillsdiscovery.org 7 KONZA PRAIRIE BIOLOGICAL STATION Manhattan A partnership of The Nature Conservancy and Kansas State University, this research station includes three trails open to the public (dogs and bikes not allowed). This tallgrass prairie offers visitors a rare chance for up-close enjoyment of the native prairie landscape and a herd of Bison. konza.ksu.edu Kansas Byways
27
about the additional
byway GETTING THERE
Native Stone Scenic Byway
In northeast-central Kansas, the Native Stone Scenic Byway runs as an eastwest, S-shaped route from northeast of Dover to the interchange of Interstate 70 and Kansas Highway 177. LENGTH
75 miles TIME TO TRAVEL
Approximately 90 minutes without stops ROADWAY
Kansas Highways 4, 99, 18 and 177 WHEN TO SEE
All seasons CONNIE’S CORNER CAFÉ (formerly
HISTORIC STONE FENCE WORKSHOPS
WABAUNSEE COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM
SERVICES
Sommerset Hall Café) Dover (785) 256-6223
Spring and Fall Workshops hosted by the Native Stone Scenic Byway Committee Contact: Marsha Ericson ksmarsha@msn.com Or look for “Native Stone Scenic Byway” on Facebook
Alma (785) 765-2200
Limited services along Kansas Highways 4 and 18
VOLLAND STORE
RESOURCES
Alma (785) 499-3916 thevollandstore.com
City of Alma (785) 765-3922 cityofalma-kansas.com
ANTIQUE EMPORIUM OF ALMA
Manhattan CVB (785) 776-8829 manhattancvb.org
ALMA CREAMERY
Alma (785) 765-3522 almacheese.com
Alma (785) 765-3332 COMPLETE LISTING The above listings are only a portion of the attractions along this byway. For a complete and regularly updated listings of amenities, including destination sites, lodgings, places to eat, shops and events along the Native Stone Scenic Byway, go online at travelks.com/ksbyways/native-stone.
Wabaunsee County Agriculture Agent Stephanie Melhus smelhus@ksu.edu
We’re A Wine Store …And More! Award-Winning Wines Made in Kansas Free Wine Tasting Fun Shopping Customized Gift Baskets Unique Gifts & Products
Hours
Mondays-Thursdays: 10 a.m.– 6 p.m. Fridays and Saturday: 10 a.m.– 8 p.m.
Free Food Samples on Saturdays Wine Taste While You Browse
1901 Lakin | Downtown Great Bend, KS | (620) 603-6410 RosewoodWineCellar.com
GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE
BED & BREAKFAST
ASSOCIATION
A stay at one of our fine member properties
www.kbba.com
AN UNFORGETTABLE GIFT!
SCENIC VALLEY INN & WOODEN NICKEL
MT SUNFLOWER BED & BREAKFAST
THE HISTORIC WOLF HOTEL & WOLF MANOR
Manhattan, KS
Sharon Springs, KS
Ellinwood, KS
EVENT CENTER
scenicvalleyinn.com
785-776-6831
mtsunflowerbedandbreakfast.com
785-852-4004
historicwolfhotel.com
620-617-6915
STAY-CATIONS
MILL CREEK LODGE Alma, KS
millcreeklodgevollandpoint.com
Each Bed and Breakfast Inn has been inspected and is in compliance with Covid 19 Health Codes and offering Individual breakfast placing and times. Order in from your favorite restaurant, and enjoy a picnic on the porch, grounds or park. Comfort, cleanliness and warm hospitality With knowledge of the surrounding area, community events, historic sites, shopping, sports, and great restaurants, your innkeeper will assure you of a quality experience.
SIMPLE HAVEN BED & BREAKFAST Wilson, KS
simplehavenbandb.com
785-658-3814
785-765-3300
info@kbba • 316-765-1845
THE BARN BED & BREAKFAST
ANDERSON BED & BREAKFAST
CIRCLE S RANCH & COUNTRY INN
Valley Falls, KS
Manhattan, KS
Lawrence, KS
thebarnbb.com 785-945-3225
andersonbnb.com
785-539-4994
circlesranch.com 785-843-4124
ksbyways.org
Post Rock Scenic Byway
T
he Post Rock Scenic Byway takes its name from the limestone fence posts pioneers used in settling this region in the mid- to late-1800s. These edifices are beautiful and practical because the mainly treeless plains of the time provided little wood for traditional fencing. You have several opportunities to see these post in neighboring backroads and along the byway itself. Though a short trip of slightly over 18 miles, the Post Rock Scenic Byway easily offers a full day of exploration between the two communities at either end of the route and the picturesque Wilson Lake in the middle. The community of Lucas, for example, has emerged as a center for quirky, self-taught art. Be sure to stop at the Grassroots Art Center to see their exhibits and follow their recommendation for other local sites to visit. If you’re traveling with children, that list of locations will probably include a stop at the city’s famous Bowl Plaza—a public restroom like no other. You can also stop by Brant’s Market, an oldworld butcher’s shop featuring hand-crafted sausage and meats. Visitors to Wilson, the Czech Capital of Kansas, can learn more about the city’s ethnic heritage at the regional museum before stopping by the World’s Largest Hand-Painted Czech egg for a photo. Both communities offer venues for dining or carry out. This is a journey that rewards slow travel, close inspections and an appreciation for the heritage of the people who settled this region of Kansas. It’s a destination that can call you back for repeat visits, offering something new each time.
on the
2 GARDEN OF EDEN Lucas This museum preserves the concrete sculptures and self-taught artistry of Civil War veteran S.P. Dinsmoor. Considered one of the nation’s oldest intact ensembles of folk art, the Garden of Eden still carries the quirky and visionary flavor of its creator in every square foot of the property. Nearly 115 years after its creation, the Garden of Eden continues to be art with an extreme wow factor. gardenofedenlucas.org
map
1 LYNN’S GLASSWORKS Lucas One of several art-focused shops in downtown Lucas, Lynn’s offers Kansasthemed customized gifts. (785) 658-5917
3 WILSON STATE PARK Between Lucas and Wilson Wilson Lake offers beautiful scenery and trails in the heart of the Smoky Hills. The lake is popular with anglers and the trails offer something for everyone from the challenging 25.5-mile long Switchgrass Bike Trail for mountain bikers to the easily accessible, concrete-surface one-mile loop walking trail. Like many of the state parks, Wilson Lake offers on-site cabin rentals and plenty of sites for RV or tent camping. ksoutdoors.com/ State-Parks/Locations/Wilson 4
GRANDMA’S SODA SHOP AND DINER Wilson With homemade bieroch and kolache on the menu, Grandma’s taps the region’s Czech heritage while also offering a full range of Americana diner dishes. With free wifi and good eats, this is a great location to nourish yourself, rest and make plans before heading out again. grandmassodashop.com 5
WORLD’S LARGEST HANDPAINTED CZECH EGG Wilson Some 20 feet in height, this traditionally painted egg (kraslice method) sits at a place of honor in the center of Wilson. An informative sign explains about the traditions and heritage behind the decorative item. wilsonkschamber.com/ worlds-largest-czech-egg Kansas Byways
31
about the additional
byway GETTING THERE
Post Rock Scenic Byway
In central Kansas, the byway is just off Interstate 70, going south a short distance on the 206 mile marker exit to visit Wilson, and then back north on Kansas Highway 232. LENGTH
18 miles TIME TO TRAVEL
Approximately 25 minutes without stops ROADWAY
Kansas Highway 232 GRASSROOTS ARTS CENTER
WORLD’S LARGEST THINGS
MADE FROM SCRATCH CAFÉ
Lucas (785) 525-6118 grassrootsart.net
Lucas (785) 760-0826 worldslargestthings.com
Wilson (785) 658-3300
BACKSTREET BAKERY
BRANT’S MARKET
Lucas (785) 346-6491
Lucas (785) 525-6464 KANSAS ORIGINALS
WHEN TO SEE
All seasons SERVICES
DRUMMER’S DINING HALL AT MIDLAND RAILROAD HOTEL
Gas, food and lodging
Wilson (785) 658-2284 midlandrailroadhotel.com
Lucas Area Chamber of Commerce (785) 525-6288 lucaskansas.com
Wilson kansasoriginals.com COMPLETE LISTING The above listings are only a portion of the attractions along this byway. For a complete and regularly updated listings of amenities, including destination sites, lodging, restaurants, shops and events along the Post Rock Scenic Byway, go online at travelks.com/ksbyways/post-rock.
RESOURCES
Wilson Chamber of Commerce (785) 658-2272 wilsonkschamber.com
Ride the Post Rock Scenic Byway!! Take a ride on the Post Rock Scenic Byway where you’ll see the best view of Wilson Lake and the country side! Need a break in your travels? Stop in Lucas at Brant’s Meat Market, take a tour of the Garden of Eden and the Grassroots Art Center, also check out the Bowl Plaza the second best public restroom in America!! For more information, or events going on in the area please contact our office!!
Russell County Kansas
Russell County Eco Devo & CVB 331 E Wichita Russell, KS 67665 785.483.4000 www.russellcountyks.org
November 1 through January 1 170 victorian, antique Christmas trees and ornaments 10-5pm Wed-Sat | 1-5pm Sun (785) 887-6148 | www.lecomptonkansas.com
Taste the Wonderful Wines of Kansas
New Lancaster General Store
Enabling pour choices since 2014. 7397 K-92 Hwy | Ozawkie, KS 66070 (785) 876-9990 CrookedPostWinery.com
Hours: Wed-Sat: 11-5pm, Sun: 12-5pm 29725 Somerset Road Paola, KS 66071 (913) 491-0038 | somersetridge.com
Passport Stamps available at participating wineries
1636 SE 85th Wakarusa, KS 66546 (785) 862-5421 glaciersedgewine.com
36688 New Lancaster Rd. | Paola, KS 66071 PO Box 372 | (913) 377-4689 newlancastergeneralstore.com
23622 Springhill Farm Drive | Winfield, KS (620) 229-9463 | Wheatstatewineco.com
Winery: 1171 SW 20 Rd, Pawnee Rock, KS Wine Cellar: 1901 Lakin, Great Bend, KS RosewoodCreations.com
Call or check our websites for hours and tasting times
A
pproximately 80 miles, the Prairie Trail Scenic Byway is a tribute to the cattle and pioneer trails that shaped this region’s businesses, towns and immigrant communities that grew up around them. The winding byway crosses through well-populated areas and natural attractions. Active groups will want to plan for plenty of time, if not an overnight stay, to fully explore Kanopolis State Park, Coronado Heights and Maxwell Wildlife Refuge. Cultural travelers will want to set aside time for three unique galleries in Lindsborg: the Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery featuring the works of this influential SwedishAmerican impressionist, the Small World Gallery featuring the images of National Geographic photographer Jim Richardson and the Red Barn Studio Museum celebrating the fine art and vernacular works of Lester Raymer. But all travelers will share the road—and this is a rewarding drive through some of Kansas’ best scenery that changes as the light falls across the rolling hills. ksbyways.org
Prairie Trail Scenic Byway
3 MUSHROOM ROCK STATE PARK North of Kanopolis Lake Mushroom Rock State Park gets its name from the unique geologic rock formations of Dakota sandstone found there that resemble mushrooms. This five-acre park consists of two mushroom pedestals and numerous other rock formations. It is free to the public. ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Locations/Mushroom-Rock
on the
2 FORT HARKER GUARDHOUSE MUSEUM COMPLEX Kanopolis Four buildings of native Dakota sandstone have been preserved from the fort, which operated from 1866 to 1873. The complex includes a museum and a relocated 1905 railroad depot. kansastravel.org/fortharker.htm
map
1 ELLSWORTH COWTOWN Ellsworth Ellsworth returns to its Wild West roots every August with a Cowtown Days celebration featuring musical performances, rodeo, parades and more. Ellsworth also offers a pleasant downtown plaza to explore via a walking tour. Be sure to stop by the Hodgden House Museum. ellsworthcowtown.com
4 KANOPOLIS STATE PARK Lake Kanopolis The picturesque Kanopolis State Park provides opportunities for watersports, hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking. With more than 200 campsites, it offers an ideal overnight stay or simply a vast area for groups to stretch their legs and enjoy the natural scenery of the surrounding Smoky Hills. ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/ Locations/Kanopolis 5 KANSAS MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM Marquette Initially created around the personal collection of Marquette’s own champion, motorcyclist “Stan the Man” Engdahl; the museum now features more than 100 vintage and rare motorcycles. In May, the museum also hosts the annual Thunder on the Smoky Motorcycle Rally. ksmotorcyclemuseum.org 6 CORONADO HEIGHTS Near Lindsborg Coronado Heights is named after the Spanish explorer Francisco Vasquez Coronado, who led an expedition through this region in the mid-1500s. At the top of the hill sits a castle-like structure, created by the WPA in 1936. The land and the stonework are open to the public. linsdborghistory.org/coronadoheights.html 7 SVENSK HYLLNINGSFEST Lindsborg On October of the odd-numbered years, the residents of Lindsborg (along with hundreds of guests) gather to celebrate the community’s Swedish heritage with dances, music, food and more. Even if you are not able to arrive for the festival, the town has ongoing reminders of the immigrant community in various shops, restaurants and the publicly displayed Dala horse statues. svenskhyllningsfest.org 8 MAXWELL WILDLIFE REFUGE Near Canton The nonprofit Friends of Maxwell works with the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism to manage a refuge hosting herds of bison and elk. Visitors may sign up in advance for guided tram rides. For more information, go to ksoutdoors.com and search for “Maxwell Wildlife Refuge” Kansas Byways
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additional
about the
byway Prairie Trail Scenic Byway
GETTING THERE
Near the very center of Kansas, this byway runs from Canton (not far from the intersection of the historic Santa Fe and Chisholm trails) on county roads, through Roxbury, Lindsborg, Marquette, Kanopolis and Ellsworth before ending at the intersection of US Highway 156 and Interstate 70. MARQUETTE MUSEUM AND RANGE SCHOOL MUSEUM
Marquette (785) 546-2205 BIRGER SANDZÉN MEMORIAL GALLERY
Lindsborg (785) 227-2220
OLD MILL MUSEUM
SMALL WORLD GALLERY
Lindsborg (785) 227-3595
Lindsborg (785) 227-4442 smallworldgallery.net
LENGTH
80 miles
RED BARN STUDIO MUSEUM
CARNEGIE LIBRARY
TIME TO TRAVEL
90 minutes without stops
Lindsborg (785) 227-2217 redbarnstudio.org
(last to be built in the U.S.) Canton (620) 628-4349
ROADWAY
McPherson County 14th Ave, 27th Ave, and Smoky Valley Road Kansas Highways 141 and 4; US Highway 156 WHEN TO SEE
All seasons SERVICES
Gas, food and lodging RESOURCES
Lindsborg CVB (888) 227-2227 lindsborgcity.org Marquette (785) 546-2205 marquettekansas.com
COMPLETE LISTING The above listings are only a portion of the attractions along this byway. For a complete and regularly updated listings of amenities, including destinations, lodging, restaurants, shops and events along this byway, go online at travelks.com/ksbyways/prairie-trail.
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Kansas Byways
Ellsworth Area Chamber (785) 472-4071 goellsworth.com ksbyways.org
Share Our Sky of Wonder!
• Cedar Bluff State Park, Reservoir & Wildlife Area • Smoky Valley Scenic Byway • Halfway between Kansas City & Denver on 70
WaKeeney Travel & Tourism 785.743.8325 | WaKeeney.org
Connect with O u r S t or i e s
Along the Western Vistas Historic Byway along the western vistas historic byways
Fick Fossil & History Museum
7 8ksbyways.org 5 • 785-671-1000 6 7 1 • 1 0 0 0 | Oakley, O a k Kansas l e y, K a n s a s
T o u r i s m @VisitOakleyKS.com D iscoverOak ley.com
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on the
map Route 66 Historic Byway
“TOW mATER” CHARACTER Galena See “Tow Tater,” the original truck that inspired the Pixar “Tow Mater” character at Cars on the Route, a retro gas station, diner and gift shop. Visitors are welcome at any time to stop outside for photographs but should call ahead at (620) 783-5265 or (417) 499-3700 for volunteers to open the station interior. Look for “CarsOnTheRoute” on Facebook. 2
MINING AND HISTORICAL MUSEUM Galena This free museum explores the city’s history as the oldest mining community in Kansas, the impact of lead and zinc mining on the community, and the artifacts of daily life from the past, such as a mining equipment or a blacksmith’s working tools. galenamuseum.org 3
A
re you ready for some nostalgia? Route 66, which opened as a national road in 1926, has become part of American folklore. In Kansas, the Route 66 Historic Byway is a road meant for cruising. The 13.2-mile stretch of this fabled route runs across the southeast corner of Kansas in a tree-lined, curved path that takes visitors past beautiful scenery and an abundance of attractions. If you start the trip from the eastern edge, you’ll begin at Galena. Like many towns in the region, Galena began as a mining community (primarily lead) but is now home to a modern chemical manufacturing facility that is partly responsible for the small community’s vibrant, old-fashioned downtown. Galena is credited with being the inspiration for Radiator Springs, the setting for the Disney Pixar hit, Cars. In fact, the inspiration for the Tow Mater character, a 1951 International L-170 Series truck, can be seen in Galena. Driving on to Riverton, you’ll cross an iconic Marsh arch bridge with its signature rainbow arches. There were once three Marsh arch bridges along Route 66 in Kansas, but this is the only one that remains along the entire national route—due to its placement on the National Historic Register. The Kansas portion of Route 66 finishes up near Baxter Springs, a small town with an incredible history. As the name would suggest, it was settled around a natural springs and became a transit stop along cattle routes in the late 1860s, earning it the claim of the state’s first cowtown. Baxter Springs was also briefly the home of baseball legend Mickey Mantle, who played in 1947–1949 for the town’s Whiz Kids, a minor league affiliate of the New York Yankees. The Route 66 Visitors Center, marked with a Phillips 66 shield and housed in a classic automotive cottage-style building, as well as other attractions, is also at Baxter Springs, making it a perfect spot to rest and explore before heading out on your next road trip. ksbyways.org
NELSON’S OLD RIVERTON STORE Riverton This grocery and deli shop has been operating since 1925 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Stop in for supplies, a bite to eat or Route 66 memorabilia. eislerbros.com 4 RAINBOW BRIDGE Near Riverton One of the highlights of the drive, located on Route 66 approximately 2 miles west of Riverton. 5
DECADES OF WHEELS MUSEUM Baxter Springs This museum also houses an arcade and bistro, but the main attraction is the rotating collection of antique cars. Recent displays have included a 1928 Ford Model A, 1955 Chevy (Watermelon Truck), 1957 Ford T-Bird, a 1967 Herbie-style Volkswagen, a 2020 Toyota Supra and more. decadesofwheels.com Kansas Byways
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SOUTHEAST KANSAS NATURE CENTER AND SCHERMERHORN PARK AND CAVE
Galena (620) 783-5207 LITTLE LEAGUE BASEBALL MUSEUM
additional
Baxter Springs (620) 856-3131 SELF-GUIDED TOURS OF THE BATTLE OF BAXTER SPRINGS (1863)
Route 66 Historic Byway
Brochures available through Baxter Springs Heritage Center and Museum BAXTER SPRINGS KANSAS ROUTE 66 VISITORS CENTER
Baxter Springs (620) 856-2385 baxterspringsmuseum.org/Visitor-s-Center.html
about the
byway GETTING THERE
Begin your drive at Stateline Rd and MO66, driving the 13.2 miles east to west. Follow the signs of the original Route 66 through Galena and Riverton through the roundabout, exiting on Beasley Rd., past the Rainbow Bridge, then south through Baxter Springs to the Kansas-Oklahoma border. LENGTH
SERVICES
13.2 miles
All services available
TIME TO TRAVEL
RESOURCES
BAXTER SPRINGS HERITAGE CENTER AND MUSEUM
25 minutes
Baxter Springs (620) 856-2385 baxterspringsmuseum.org
ROADWAY
Baxter Springs (620) 856-2385 baxterspringsmuseum.org
COMPLETE LISTING The above listings are only a portion of the attractions along this byway. For a complete and regularly updated listings of amenities, including destinations, lodging, restaurants, shops and events along the Route 66 Historic Byway, go online at travelks.com/ksbyways/route66.
K-66, C.R. Beasley Road US-69A WHEN TO SEE
Year-round
Cherokee County (620) 762-0717 cherokeecountykansas.com/ target-industries/tourism
COME EXPERIENCE
CLAY COUNTY Zoo Museums Rodeos
Festivals Milford Lake Water parks
Hunting Kansas Landscape Arboretum
claycokansas.com | claycenterchamber@gmail.com | 785.632.5674
Smoky Valley Scenic Byway
on the
map
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TREGO COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM WaKeeney Offering an overview of ordinary life in the region since the late 1880s, including medical equipment, military uniforms and a renovated one-room schoolhouse relocated on site. tregohistorical.org 2
F-14 TOMCAT FIGHTER JET WaKeeney A memorial to veterans, this retired military craft stands in the city’s Eisenhower Park. travelks.com/listing/ f-14-tomcat-fighter-jet/4114 3 ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH Trego County Some 8 miles south from WaKeeney, the byway passes the Zion Lutheran Church, an impressive structure built by Volga-German immigrants in 1905. Taken together with the Swedish Evangelical Lutheran Emanuel Church (which sits approximately 6 miles south of the byway’s eastern intersection with I-70), these houses of worship represent two of the region’s major immigration communities of the late 1800s. wakeeney.org/zion-lutheran-church wakeeney.org/emanuel-lutheranchurch 4
CEDAR BLUFF STATE PARK Trego County With recreational trails, fishing, and popular bike trails, this park is a favorite camping ground for many. ksoutdoors. com/State-Parks/Locations/Cedar-Bluff 5 WILCOX SCHOOL Trego County Just 16 miles south of WaKeeney, the Wilcox school sits right on the north side of the Smoky Hill River and was built with stone from nearby quarries. The school’s recently installed historic panels tell about the region and the building’s history, such as during WW II when the school became a location for people to make their own mattresses with federal cotton reserves. wakeeney. org/wilcox-school
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Kansas Byways
E
arlier settlers described this region of Kansas as an area of rolling hills whose peaks often emerged in isolation over the mists that hung below, thus giving the region the name of Smoky Hills River Valley. The byway across this area of Kansas allows travelers to experience the beauty of these hills along with sights of native prairie grass, wildflowers and wildlife, as well as attractions and cultural destinations along the route. If you start off from WaKeeney at any time between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, be sure to remain in town (or return) for the four-block holiday lights display, a tradition since 1950 that has earned the community its nickname of “Christmas City of the High Plains.” There are also several attractions to see throughout the year, including the old-fashioned soda fountain at Gibson Health Mart Pharmacy, the Kansas Veterans’ Cemetery, the Trego County Courthouse and more throughout the city’s downtown. Just outside of WaKeeney, visitors can tour and sample wines from the Shiloh Vineyard and Winery. Its restored barn makes it a pleasant stop at any time of the year. The journey south passes through rugged, rolling landscape with a possibility for a short detour to Castle Rock and the surrounding Castle Rock Badlands. The relation between communities and this rugged geography can be appreciated at the Wilcox School, a limestone one-room schoolhouse built in 1886 and operated until 1947. This is a must-stop on the byway, as display panels in the school windows provide information on the region’s history, communities, wildflowers and more. Returning on the northern route along Highway 147, the byway leads to Cedar Bluff State Park where majestic 100-foot limestone bluffs border the lake. Overnight campers may be rewarded with a view of enchanting morning mists that gave the region its name and enduring appeal. ksbyways.org
additional
about the
byway GETTING THERE
Head south on U.S. Highway 283, 26 miles, at Interstate 70 Exit 127 (WaKeeney), head east on Kansas Highway 4 at Ransom for 9 miles to Kansas Highway 147. Continue north on Kansas Highway 147 for 24 miles to Interstate 70 Exit 135.
60 miles TIME TO TRAVEL
2 hours
WESTERN KANSAS SALOON AND GRILL
SHILOH VINEYARD AND WINERY
GIBSON HEALTH MART PHARMACY
ROADWAY
WaKeeney (785) 743-2050 Look for Western Kansas Saloon and Grill on Facebook
WaKeeney (785) 743-2152 shilohvineyard.com
WaKeeney (785) 743-5753 gibsonhealthmart.com
U.S. Highway 283, Kansas Highway 4 and Kansas Highway 147
Smoky Valley Scenic Byway
LENGTH
WHEN TO SEE
Spring to summer; winter holiday for WaKeeney SERVICES
All services in WaKeeney RESOURCES
WaKeeney Travel & Tourism (785) 743-8325 wakeeney.org Castle Rock and Castle Rock Badlands naturalkansas.org/castle.htm
COMPLETE LISTING The above listings are only a portion of the attractions along this byway. For a complete and regularly updated listings of amenities, including destinations, lodging, restaurants, shops and events along the Smoky Valley Scenic Byway, go online at travelks.com/ksbyways/smoky-valley.
Established 1874
New Lancaster General Store Middle Step back in time! Kansas art, wine, foods, gifts, antiques
Creek Winery
36688 New Lancaster Rd, Paola, KS 66071 • PO Box 372 2 ½ miles W. of 69 Hwy. at 359th St. exit • 913 377-4689
newlancastergeneralstore.com
SMOKE FREE
PET-FRIENDLY
Perfect For:Traveling The Wetlands And Wildlife National Scenic Byway, Discovering Cheyenne Bottoms, Exploring Central Kansas, Sharing Family Activities In The Park Next Door
57 W. K4 Hwy Hoisington, KS 67544 | (620) 292-6022 | choicehotels.com/ks200
on the
Western Vistas Historic Byway
2 Monument Rocks Gove County These natural structures made from Niobrara Chalk are a National Natural Landmark and are located 6 miles off US-83. While the “chalk pyramids” are located on private property, visitors can enjoy these wonders during daylight hours.
map
1 El quartelejo Ruins Historic Lake Scott State Park Marking the only known pueblo in Kansas, this National Historic Landmark is found at Historic Lake Scott State Park. Visit the site of the ruins, and make sure to stop by the El Quartelejo Museum and Jerry Thomas Gallery in Scott City. jerrythomasartgallery.com and elquartelejomuseum.org
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rom chalky rocks to the Wild West, the Western Vistas Byway is the perfect route for history buffs, geology fans and nature lovers. Travel the road for a chance to see bison, pronghorn and prairie dogs, as well as massive Niobrara Chalk formations, which dot the landscape along and off the highway. This area was once an inland sea and habitat for prehistoric fish and marine creatures and today has rich outcroppings of fossils. The byway takes travelers by some of the state’s most impressive natural rock formations—Monument Rocks and Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park—while also passing by the scenic beauty of the Lake Scott valley, home of the El Quartelejo ruins. Lake Scott State Park itself offers opportunities to see wildlife and enjoy the hiking and biking trails, campsites, picnic grounds and spring-fed lake (perfect for fishing). The Keystone Gallery, 18 miles north of Scott City along Highway 83, also offers uniquely Kansan fossil exhibits and souvenirs. Owners Chuck Bonner and Barbara Shelton have been locating area fossils for decades, and Bonner family members have been hunting fossils since 1925. Farther up the road in Oakley, fossil-lovers can find more information and artifacts at the Fick Fossil and History Museum. Those interested in western expansion history can learn a bit about Buffalo Bill Cody’s life and legacy in Kansas at the Buffalo Bill Cultural Center in Oakley. Take a short side-trip off Kansas Highway 25 south to Russell Springs and tour the Butterfield Trail Museum. Once the Logan County Courthouse, this museum explores the history of the Butterfield Overland Despatch stagecoach line. South of Russell Springs, travelers can find Lone Butte, a historic landmark used by Indigenous people and settlers. Farther west on Highway 40, the Fort Wallace Museum in Wallace offers insight on the Indian War time period.
ksbyways.org
Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park Logan County The newest addition to Kansas’ state park system, Little Jerusalem features large outcroppings of Niobrara Chalk structures and is open for hiking along designated trails. Guided tours are available on request. travelks.com/little-jerusalem 4
Buffalo Bill Cultural Center Oakley Committed to connecting visitors with the history of the Wild West, the Buffalo Bill Cultural Center offers exhibits about the area’s history, landscape, and culture. It also serves as an event center and tourism resource for visitors from near and far. buffalobilloakley.org 5 Butterfield Trail Museum Russell Springs Learn about Butterfield’s Overland Despatch stagecoach line established along the Smoky Hill Trail. Following a path initially used by Native tribes, this trail connected Kansas to the Rocky Mountains and played a key role in westward expansion. visitoakleyks.com/butterfield-trail-museum 6 Fort Wallace Museum Wallace The newly imagined exhibits at Fort Wallace Museum bring alive stories of the Smoky Hill Trail, centering on Native nations, Fort Wallace, the Kansas Pacific Railway and the frontier boom-town era. ftwallace.com. Kansas Byways
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about the additional
byway GETTING THERE
Western Vistas Historic Byway
Via Interstate 70 Exit 17 Goodland south to U.S. Highway 40, east to Oakley, U.S. Highway 83, south to Scott City. Oakley, Interstate Exits 70 or 76 to U.S. Highway 40 west or U.S. Highway 83 south. LENGTH
102 miles TIME TO TRAVEL
1.5 hours without stops ROADWAY
GIFTOLOGISTS
KEYSTONE GALLERY
Scott City (620) 872-7100
Scott City (620) 872-2762 keystonegallery.com
HISTORIC LAKE SCOTT STATE PARK
Scott City (620) 872-2061 ksoutdoors.com
SMOKY VALLEY RANCH
Logan County nature.org
FICK FOSSIL AND HISTORY MUSEUM AND MEMORIAL GARDENS
Oakley (785) 671-4839 discoveroakley.com SMOKY RIVER QUILT SHOPPE
Oakley (785) 671-3070 smokyriverquiltshoppe.com COMPLETE LISTING The above listings are only a portion of the attractions along this byway. For a complete and regularly updated listings of amenities, including destinations, lodging, restaurants, shops and events along this byway, go online at travelks.com/ksbyways/western-vistas.
Proud Past – Brilliant Future Come Visit Eisenhower State Park Pomona State Park 785-528-3714 (Osage City Hall) www.OsageCity.com
U.S. Highway 40 west from Sharon Springs to U.S. Highway 83 south from Oakley to Kansas Highway 95 west through Historic Scott Lake State Park, east to U.S. Highway 83, south to Scott City WHEN TO SEE
All seasons SERVICES
Gas, food and lodging RESOURCES
Western Vistas Historic Byway (785) 671-1000, (785) 872-5612 or (785) 891-3564 westernvistashistoricbyway.com
road
trip
There’s more to the byways than you think. Due to the state’s unique physiographic regions, the byways are placed in scenic and historic areas that provide travelers experiences among distinctive landscapes.
PHYSIOGRAPHIC REGIONS HIGH PLAINS Excellent farmland slopes gently downward from the west. ARKANSAS RIVER LOWLANDS Irregular hills and dunes follow an ancient river path. RED HILLS Sandstone and shale mix with areas of rugged hills, buttes and mesas. SMOKY HILLS A larger sea once covered this area of astonishing rock formations. WELLINGTON AND MCPHERSON LOWLANDS Permeable sand covers an area surrounded by salt mines and marshes. FLINT HILLS This scenic pastureland is named for the flint rock that covers the bluestem slopes. GLACIATED REGION Rounded hills and broad valleys feature glacial deposits of quartzite. OSAGE CUESTAS This broad terrace panorama has steeper eastern slopes than western slopes. CHAUTAUQUA HILLS This region is only a few miles wide, with underlying thick sandstone. CHEROKEE LOWLANDS Bituminous coal veins near the surface of this region reveal its mining history. OZARK PLATEAU The extreme southeast corner of the state is rich with fossils. MAP KEY
SCENIC BYWAY
HISTORIC BYWAY
LIVING COLOR IN THE FLINT HILLS. America’s vast, tallgrass prairie is our backyard. Space to roam and relax. Tap into the pulsing college town culture and historic frontier pioneer heritage. Sip craft beers and feast on local farm-grown food. Find your happy place in Manhattan.