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Special Outdoors issue 2020
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COME OUT AND PLAY IN OUR BACKYARD. Manhattan’s
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challenging golf courses and easily accessed waterways. This vast region is yours to explore. Find your happy place in Manhattan.
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EXPERIENCE THE
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OUTDOORS & ADVENTURE 2020
inside
PHOTOGRAPH Brian Goodman
features
34
The Beagles
They might be one of the most dainty of hunting dogs, but beagles’ hearts are always in the chase and their tracking skills are certainly worth baying about
38
Your Kansas Adventure Gear Three Kansas adventurers share their essential gear for enjoying the outdoors
02 OUTDOORS & ADVENTURE 2020
KANSAS! MAGAZINE
Share Our Sky of Wonder!
• Cedar Bluff State Park, Reservoir & Wildlife Area • Smoky Valley Scenic Byway • Halfway between Kansas City & Denver on 70
WHAT’S THERE TO DO IN TOPEKA? It’s going down...town.
Downtown Topeka | @downtowntopekainc
A LOT. ENOUGH TO FILL YOUR DAY AND YOUR FEED.
WaKeeney Travel & Tourism
785-743-8325 | www.WaKeeney.org Maryl Gottschalk
Find Your Path. Cedar Crest Trails
Topeka cares less about what others think and more about our ability to think for ourselves.
WORK HARD. PLAY HARDER.
Q
QUALITY UPLAND GAME BIRD
HUNTING SINCE 1983!
Music & Food Trucks
785-373-4835 WWW.RINGNECKRANCH.NET
Downtown Topeka
TIPTON, KANSAS
Dodge City, Kansas visitdodgecity.org
1-800-OLD-WEST
TravelKS.org/Flint-Hills
OUTDOORS & ADVENTURE 2020
inside departments
07
In this Issue
08 10
From the Editor
12 14 16 18 21 22
| Heartland People and Places that Define Us | Culture Arts and Experiences | How To Wise Tips from Friendly Kansans | Kansas Air The Freshness of Outdoor Life | Made in Kansas Must-have Local Items | Lens A Conversation with KANSAS! Photographers 24 | Reasons We Love Kansas Celebrating Unique Attractions 26 | Must See and Do Upcoming Events to Enjoy
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PHOTOGRAPHS (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP) Kansas Outdoor Corps, KDWPT, Harland Schuster and Mile 90 Photography
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30 page
24
Kansas Details
Wide Open Spaces 30 | Taste of Kansas: Carp on the Fly! Looking for a novel, challenging fishing trip? Then try fly-fishing for some Kansas carp
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46
KANSAS! Gallery
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#KansasMag
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KANSAS! MAGAZINE
ON THE COVER A group of bicyclists tours the trails at Wilson State Park. Photograph by Doug Stremel.
05 OUTDOORS & ADVENTURE 2020
BED & BREAKFAST
ASSOCIATION info@kbba
316-765-1845
kbba.com
Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism
Andrea Etzel
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Laura Kelly
OTHER OUTDOOR INNS TO VISIT IN KANSAS!
HEDRICK’S B&B INN & EXOTIC ANIMAL FARM Nickerson, KS hedricks.com
888-489-8039
• Bunkhouse at Wildfire • Ranch-Medicine Lodge • Country Lakes - Lyndon • Kansas Creek Inn - Concordia • Log Cabin Retreat and Snow Goose Lodge - Jamestown • Murphy’s Landing - Stark • Prairie Oaks Inn - Sylvia • Ravenwood Lodge and Bunkhouse - Topeka • Trail City Bed and Breakfast - Coolidge • Underhill Farms - Moundridge • Wildhorse Canyon - Dighton
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KANSAS! (ISSN 0022-8435) is published quarterly by the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism 1020 S. Kansas Ave., Suite 200, Topeka, KS 66612; (785) 296-3479; TTY Hearing Impaired: (785) 296-3487. Periodical postage paid at Topeka, KS, and at additional mailing offices. Newsstand price $5 per issue; subscription price $18 per year; $30 for two years. All prices include all applicable sales tax. Please address subscription inquiries to: Toll-free: (800) 678-6424 KANSAS!, P.O. Box 146, Topeka, KS 66601-0146 Email: ksmagazine@sunflowerpub.com | Website: www.KansasMag.com POSTMASTER: Send address change to: KANSAS!, P.O. Box 146, Topeka, KS 66601-0146. Please mail all editorial inquiries to: KANSAS!, 1020 S. Kansas Ave., Suite 200, Topeka, KS 66612 email: ksmagazine@sunflowerpub.com The articles and photographs that appear in KANSAS! magazine may not be broadcast, published or otherwise reproduced without the express written consent of Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism or the appropriate copyright owner. Unauthorized use is prohibited. Additional restrictions may apply.
OUTDOORS & ADVENTURE 2020
in this
issue
page
PHOTOGRAPHS (FROM LEFT) Jonathan Blumb, Michael Henry, Shelly Bryant
34 David and Bunny Writer, Fort Hays State University biology grad and outdoors enthusiast David Zumbaugh has decades of experience bird hunting and flyfishing in Kansas. He is particularly proud of harvesting two species of turkeys in Kansas: eastern and Rio Grande. For this issue of KANSAS! Outdoors & Adventure, Zumbaugh returned to another sporting highlight: hunting with Bunny the beagle. “I think we got two rabbits,” says David who enjoys seeing Bunny pick up a scent trail. “It’s impossible to describe, but the beagles are so intense—and a bit humorous—when they pick up the trail and become overwhelmed with excitement.”
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16 First Fishings
2020 Anniversary Year
For outdoorsman Michael Pearce, writing this edition’s story on youth fishing was a labor of love. Having caught his first five-pound bass by the age of five, Pearce is an experienced angler who estimates he now heads out to fish in Kansas “not nearly enough, but 20 or so times a year.” He has numerous favorite locations, but notes “it’s hard to beat a Flint Hills stream where the fish are hungry and gullible. … Both the scenery and the solitude are as good as the fishing.”
“[I]t’s hard to beat a Flint Hills stream where the fish are hungry and gullible. … Both the scenery and the solitude are as good as the fishing.” —Michael Pearce KANSAS! MAGAZINE
coming in
around the
state These are just some of the locations represented in this issue of KANSAS! magazine.
KANSAS! magazine kicks off a year of special issues to mark our 75th anniversary. This edition, the KANSAS! Outdoors & Adventure issue, combines the KANSAS! format and style with the previously issued Outdoors magazine. This copy of KANSAS! in your hands will be followed by four other quarterly issues, each representing a trait or value that defines our state: the spring Freedom issue, the summer Festivities issue, the fall Exploration & Innovation issue and the winter Home & Land issue. Here’s to a wonderful 2020!
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Oakley
15
Russell
21
Moundridge
24
Scott City
25
Farlington
07 OUTDOORS & ADVENTURE 2020
OUTDOORS & ADVENTURE 2020
from the
editor
Since joining the magazine a little over five years ago, I’ve been looking forward to 2020. Why? This year we’ve hit a milestone—KANSAS! is celebrating its 75th year of publication! Our team is working hard to make it a special year, starting off with this special outdoors and adventure issue. We’re not the only ones celebrating an anniversary this year; Kanopolis State Park in Marquette turns 65 in 2020. Holding the honor of being Kansas’ first state park, Kanopolis is one of my favorite places to explore. I recommend hiking Horsethief Canyon, with its towering sandstone bluffs and caves, and afterward enjoying a night of stargazing on the lakeshore. When we ask visitors (and locals) what they enjoy about Kansas, they always point to our outdoor opportunities. In “Your Kansas Adventure Gear” (pg. 38), three active adventurers share their favorite outdoor spots plus a ready-made list of gear to get you started. To paraphrase Jonathan Groene, adventure is only limited by imagination. In our state, there’s plenty of room to roam and let your imagination run free.
ANDREA ETZEL
facebook.com/KansasMagazine @KANSASMag KansasMagazine (get spotted; use #kansasmag to tag us)
OPPOSITE Last year I was finally able to check “photograph the elk and bison at Maxwell Wildlife Refuge during sunrise” off my bucket list. Each winter, the Friends of Maxwell hosts events inviting photographers to capture sunrise with the herds. I’m not a morning person, and it was bitterly cold, but it was a great experience that I look forward to doing again. Visit the Fans of Maxwell Wildlife Refuge Facebook page for more information.
08 OUTDOORS & ADVENTURE 2020
KANSAS! MAGAZINE
PHOTOGRAPH Andrea Etzel
EDITOR, KANSAS! MAGAZINE
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Youth Fishing Clinics in Kansas Fishing skills are passed on at the state’s many youth clinics
A young angler holds a fish at the TCLA Fishing Clinic. Photograph by Michael Henry.
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PHOTOGRAPHS (FROM TOP) Courtesy The Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery, Courtesy Garmin International, Courtesy Ric Westman
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Welcome to KANSAS! Outdoors & Adventure “Kansas Details” section. Here we explore what’s new and buzzing throughout the state—from outdoor activities to people and groups promoting adventure in the Sunflower State.
12 Heartland 14 Culture 16 How To 18 Kansas Air 21 Made in Kansas 22 Lens 24 Reasons We Love Kansas 26 Must See and Do Events
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WIDE OPEN SPACES 30 Taste of Kansas: Carp on the Fly!
11 KANSAS! MAGAZINE
OUTDOORS & ADVENTURE 2020
heartland By Kari Williams
As long as people have populated Kansas, there have been hunters. And for the most part, these hunters have been men. It’s a division reflected across the nation. According to a 2016 study by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, only 1.1 million women hunted that year compared to 10.3 million men. But in Kansas, many are working to bring at least some equality to those numbers. Jami McCabe, the coordinator for the Kansas branch of the Becoming an OutdoorsWoman workshop, says she sees female hunters as the state’s next big trend—whether they are going out with family members, with a group of women or on their own. McCabe has been introducing potential female hunters to the outdoors in workshops at Junction City and other locations since becoming involved with her organization in 1994 and has a particular interest in turkey hunting and bow hunting across the state. She says it is important for manufacturers to respond to the growing demographic of women hunters by realizing that women want greater range and functionality for clothing. “We want a variety, just like they offer men,” McCabe says, “And hunting clothes do not need to have pink on them. I get very tired of being told I can try things on in the boys department, or order online.” Kansas Wildlife Federation Board president Laura Mendenhall says that she has seen more women hunters as well. Because the Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism has worked to break down barriers, she believes the next trend in Kansas hunting will be diversity: not only more women, but also more children and people of color. Mendenhall notes that the national demographics for hunters are “pretty white and pretty male,” but hopes that will change locally. “I think that the demographic is going to change so it better reflects the demographic that is in Kansas,” she notes, adding that part of her federation’s mission is to eliminate “barriers to entry.” Mendenhall, who is also a wildlife biologist, says that she and her husband have been hunting for 25 years. The only meat they eat, she says, is hunted and, by default, organic—a choice she believes is shared by many other hunters. “People want to know where their food’s coming from,” Mendenhall says. Another trend Mendenhall has noticed is gourmet cooking, such as “sous vide,” a French way of cooking in water, as well as creative recipes for preparing wild game. That interest, says Mendenhall, reflects one of the biggest trends in hunting over the recent years—an awareness of how the activity is at once a sport, a way of life, and a connection to stewardship of the land. “[People] make connections between if we protect and preserve the land, then we will have more opportunities to hunt,” Mendenhall says.
Deer Although many hunters need assistance in bringing in and harvesting a deer, this game will rise in popularity according to McCabe. Laura Mendenhall, president of the Wichita-based Kansas Wildlife Federation Board, says that deer offer one of the most popular and accessible options for “free range, clean Kansas meat.” Game birds Offering more of a sporting challenge, game birds continue to be popular with hunters and groups of hunting-tourists. The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism’s 2018 annual report notes that the game-bird hunting season has been extended by one month, now running from September 1 to April 30. Where in Kansas?
Pratt
OUTDOORS & ADVENTURE 2020
Turkeys Becoming an Outdoors-Woman coordinator Jami McCabe said turkeys have maintained popularity over the years and will continue to be a game of choice for new hunters because of their abundance and size (neither too small nor too big). “They’re not a large animal to figure out how to deal with once you get it,” McCabe notes.
Junction City Wichita
12
According to a 2016 study by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, only 1.1 million women hunted that year compared to 10.3 million men.
WHAT GAME ARE TRENDING IN KANSAS?
KANSAS! MAGAZINE
PHOTOGRAPH Courtesy Kansas Outdoor Corps
Reimagining the Hunter
c SANDZÉN’S PALETTE Birger Sandzén’s style changed over the years, and he did not always create works in the same tones or even in the same media (he commonly created oils, watercolors and woodcuts). But Ron Michael, director of the Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery, says that we do know the exact colors Sandzén used for most of his oils. These include: Yellow Ochre Cadmium Yellow Medium Cadmium Red Medium Raw Sienna Alizarin Crimson Cobalt Violet Titanium White Emerald Green Permanent Green Light French Ultramarine Blue
Detail of Creek at Sunset by Birger Sandzén, 1920, oil on canvas, 36 x 48 inches, Greenough Collection, Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery.
culture By Amber Fraley
KANSAS! MAGAZINE
The Reuben Saunders Gallery at 3215 E Douglas Avenue in Wichita always has several Sandzén paintings on display. The gallery also sells his works. reubensandersgallery.com In 1928, the students and faculty of Kansas State University, along with Manhattan community, raised enough funds to acquire the first two pieces to grace the Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art: Still Water and Fall in the Mountains by Birger Sandzén. The museum at 701 Beach Lane in Manhattan owns twenty Sandzén paintings, and one Sandzén is always on display. Similarly, the Wichita Art Museum at 1400 Museum Blvd in Wichita has several Sandzéns in its permanent collection and one or more are generally on display. The Spencer Museum of Art at 1301 Mississippi Street in Lawrence has a single Sandzén on display in its permanent collection, as well as more than 20 others that can be viewed by appointment. beach.k-state.edu | wichitaartmuseum.org spencerart.ku.edu
Where in Kansas?
Lawrence Manhattan
ABOVE Fall Evening, Kansas by Birger Sandzén, 1915, oil on canvas, 24 x 16 inches, Greenough Collection, Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery.
The Deines Cultural Center at 820 North Main Street in Russell owns three Sandzén paintings that are usually on display. deinesculturalcenter.org
Wichita
When Swedish immigrant and artist Sven Birger Sandzén arrived in central Kansas in 1894, he stepped into a world of sprawling landscapes and natural beauty—but one that was rarely depicted as such in works of art at the time. Over the next decades, from his post as head art instructor at Bethany College, the Stockholm- and Paris-educated artist would gaze upon the surrounding vistas and recreate them on his canvas in a profusion of light and texture. His unique vision has influenced Kansas artists ever since. “I think he certainly brought a lot more light into the landscape than previous artists probably had in Kansas,” says Ron Michael, director of the Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery. “He was much more in tune with things like our dramatic sunsets, and the prairie landscape itself became a real fascination for him. He was a real master at painting the reflective quality of water and capturing the pinks we get in the sky here in Kansas, and the way those pinks will bounce off the landscape as well. And then he also went looking for our more dramatic rock formations that were reflective of light.” Though sometimes referred to as “the American van Gogh,” Sandzén created art whose exact style is difficult to pin down. “He’s generally considered an early modernist artist,” says Michael. “He certainly took elements of impressionism and brought them into his work. But generally he’s considered to have developed beyond the impressionists and become a bit more expressive than they were. He’s one of those artists who’s hard to classify because he didn’t belong to any particular school. He incorporated multiple styles at the time—fauves (fauvism), post-impressionist, early modernism—and melded them into his own unique style.” Fortunately for Kansans, that unique style was often realized in depictions of the Smoky Hills, prairie farmland and large Kansas skies. Until his death in 1954, Sandzén created beautiful images of the Kansas outdoors that were stunning and inspiring, but also entirely true to life.
The Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery at 401 N. First Street in Lindsborg holds the world’s largest collection of Sandzén paintings, prints, drawings and watercolors. Works by former Sandzén student Fern Aspelin Cole will also be on display March 29 through May 31. sandzen.org
Lindsborg Russell
PHOTOGRAPHS Courtesy Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery
How One Artist Recast Kansas in Full Color
WHERE TO VIEW
15 OUTDOORS & ADVENTURE 2020
By Michael Pearce
how to
Youth Fishing Clinics in Kansas
Beginning is simple. Most children pick up the fundamentals of fishing quickly, especially when they attend one of the many kids fishing clinics held in Kansas each year.
For more than 25 years, the Tuttle Creek Lake Association has hosted a fishing clinic for kids. The clinic has grown into a 2-day event for youth ages 8–12, who receive a rod and reel, bait and equipment (they are even able to keep the rod and reel). Held at the generously stocked Jerry Dishman Lake of Anneberg Park inside the city limits of Manhattan, the event is open to all children with an adult or guardian attending, but registration fills quickly. Go online at tuttlecreek.org or call (785) 776-0470 for more information.
15th Annual Sgt. Jerry Mills, Jr. (Memorial) Fishing Derby, Arkansas City – June 6 The event at Veteran’s Lake honors a native son killed in Afghanistan. Local volunteers work with children ages 5–15. The first 30 first-timers to register get a free rod and reel. The $5 entry fee covers bait and lunch. Call (620) 441-4300 for more information.
Walk with Wildlife Kids Fishing Clinic, Wichita – June 6 The fishing clinic on the grounds Chisholm Creek Park’s Great Plains Nature Center is staffed by volunteers from the Flatland Fly Fishers Club. All gear is furnished, and about 90 percent of participants end up catching a fish. The Walk with Wildlife has many other attractions. Pre-registration for half-hour fishing times is needed; call (316) 683-5499.
Other online sources
More information on kids fishing can be found on these sites: fishingsfuture.org and ksoutdoors.com/fishing.
Where in Kansas? Tuttle Creek
Fall River State Park
Ark City
KANSAS! MAGAZINE
TCLA Fishing Clinic — June
Sponsored by Kansas Wildscape and partnering with state parks, civic groups and recreation commissions, the 30-plus O.K. Kids events across the state host over 10,000 people annually. Fishing is a big part of most of those events, which are held at small ponds or lakes where access is easy and the waters are specially stocked just prior to the event with sunfish and/or channel catfish. “We always start off the event with fishing at the kid’s pond,” says Kim Jones, Fall River State Park manager. “Last year I don’t think we had any kids [of the approximately 60 attending] who didn’t catch a fish. Some caught many fish. They don’t have to know much about fishing or even bring a pole. It’s all furnished. Our biologist comes to help the kids, and he keeps that pond really well stocked.” From remote state lakes in western Kansas to ponds at mid-city parks, O.K. Kids fishing events are held across Kansas from April through October. Children are invited to attend as many as they like. Residents of most all Kansas towns should have easy access to at least four events. Since youth attention spans can be limited, there is more to the O.K. Kids events than fishing. Often there’s an hour or more dedicated to youth angling, and angling education for the adults who bring them, followed by organized hikes, archery, target shooting, outdoor crafts, or kite flying. Free lunches are usually included. All of the activities and events are free. Dates, locations and itineraries should be updated at kansaswildscape.org in March.
Chisholm Creek
PHOTOGRAPHS Michael Henry
For a child, watching a bobber dance a few times, dip from sight and then be pulled underwater by a lively fish can be an exciting introduction to a lifelong sport. Youth fishing is relatively inexpensive fun that can pull youth outdoors and away from screens. It’s an adventure they can pass on to the next generation as they spend a lifetime refining their skills.
Outdoor Kansas for Kids (O.K. Kids) events
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OUTDOORS & ADVENTURE 2020
kansas air By Michael Pearce
Where in Kansas?
Clinton Lake State Park
Milford Nature Center Chaplin Nature Center
Bald Eagles in Kansas Few things in the outdoors stir the soul like watching a bald eagle soar. Their grace in flight, 80-inch wingspan and comeback from near extinction are all amazing. Fortunately, Kansas offers great opportunities to see these magnificent birds. Not only is the state home to over 130 pairs nesting and raising young throughout the year, during the winter, Kansas hosts thousands of migrating pairs. The guest eagles come to Kansas from the northlands and spend their winters feasting on waterfowl and fishing in lakes, rivers and streams. Several conservation groups celebrate the grand birds with guided trips that usually include other nature-based activities. Here are three of the best.
mile hike to look for bald eagles along a remote stretch of the Arkansas River. wichitaaudubon.org
Milford Nature Center – January Milford has been sharing the remarkable story of bald eagles for over 30 years with their Eagle Days event. During this celebration, buses and guides take guests to the lake to view the birds. Close encounters with live bald eagles and other programs are held in the inside nature center, 3415 Hatchery Dr., Junction City. There is no charge for the all-day event. Even if you don’t make the actual celebration, nearby Milford Reservoir is a fabulous location to look for bald eagles during the winter. On some days, over 100 bald eagles have been spotted.
On your own Most Kansans live within an hour of eagle viewing spots and can go unguided.
Chaplin Nature Center Bald Eagle Hikes – January and February The 230-acre Chaplin Nature Center, 27801 27th Dr., Arkansas City, is open to the public sunrise to sunset and owned by Wichita Audubon Society. It is a perfect location to see bald eagles, and the weekend event begins with a short presentation at the visitors center followed by a guided 1.5-
jayhawkaudubon.org/kaw-valley-eagles-day
When – Peak eagle numbers are probably December through
February. The colder the day, the easier they are to find around open water. Where — Reservoirs, lakes and big rivers are where eagles find fish and hunt waterfowl. Most viewing is from vehicles, but many state parks have trails along the shoreline to combine hiking and eagle watching. Cities with sizable rivers often have bald eagles right in town. What to bring — Binoculars are very helpful, as is a good birding ID book to help identify birds, especially young bald eagles, which can be misidentified as goldens. Tips — Be sure look in the distance, especially in tall trees near water. Early morning is best time to spot bald eagles hunting. Dress warm. Remember, it’s against federal law to harass bald eagles in any way. You can keep your distance and still enjoy the show.
18 OUTDOORS & ADVENTURE 2020
KANSAS! MAGAZINE
PHOTOGRAPH Ric Westman
ksoutdoors.com/KDWPT-Info/Locations/Museums-and-NatureCenters/Milford-Nature-Center
Kaw Valley Eagles Day – January Sponsored by Jayhawk Audubon Society, Clinton State Reservoir and State Park and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, this event is based out of Free State High School, 4700 Overland Drive, Lawrence. The indoor portion of the day includes nature-based presentations and children’s activities and displays. The real treat, though, are the guided field trips to see bald eagles at the reservoir. No charge.
A bald eagle pulls a fish from the waters of Lake Perry.
Hays is surrounded by prime walk-in
hunting areas, so you spend less time asking for permission and more time doing what you love.
Inside the city limits, you’ll find plenty of hunting outfitters, restaurants and hotel options. VisitHays.com
Proud Past – Brilliant Future Smoke in the Spring State BBQ Championship April 10-11, 2020 785-528-3714 (Osage City Hall) www.OsageCity.com
NORTONKansas
www.discovernorton.com
‘Your Recreation Destination’ Hunting Fishing Boating Camping
Call 785.877.2501 for Hotels, Tours, Museums, Shops, & Golf
k
made in kansas By Megan Saunders
In the late 1980s, when the emerging global positioning system (GPS) technology was changing the communication landscape, Kansas native Gary Burrell and his business partner Min Kao saw an opportunity and co-founded Garmin International, Inc. What started as a handful of engineers exploring the new technology in Lenexa and then Olathe soon developed into a communication product powerhouse with 13,000 employees in 60 offices around the world, including about 4,000 employees in the Kansas City area. Moving beyond the original military applications of the navigation technology, Garmin developed a range of navigation and wearable technology products for various markets, including outdoor gear such as electronic-collar dog tracking systems used by hunters as well as digital bow sights and personal navigation gear. These outdoor components are part of the company’s $3.3 billion in earnings from the most recent reported fiscal year. Many of these products are created in-house, due to the company’s history of maintaining a vertically integrated business model. In 2008, the Kansas Chamber of Commerce recognized Garmin with its Ad Astra award for business success and community service. In 2019, Forbes recognized Garmin as the No. 1 employer in the state of Kansas, in addition to ranking No. 5 on Forbes’ 2019 list of America’s Best Employers. Most of Garmin’s employees work on the company’s 96-acre campus. Thankfully, that’s plenty of room to continue creating the technology that points Kansans—and the world—in the right direction for years to come.
KANSAS HAS IT COVERED A variety of companies large and small are proud of their Kansas roots. Here are just a few Sunflower State companies creating outdoors and adventure goods. Yoder Smokers This Hutchinson-based manufacturer creates a variety of high-end grills and grilling accessories for pit smoking competitions or backyard meals. yodersmokers.com Back Atcha Benches and Tables This family-owned outdoor furniture company is based in Concordia. They specialize in creating beautiful, practical outdoor pieces from 100% recycled plastics and rubber. back-atcha.com Grasshopper Mowers The company’s 300,000-square-foot facility in Moundridge has produced a variety of tech-forward riding rotary lawnmowers since 1969. Today, they’re sold nationwide. grasshoppermower.com
Where in Kansas?
KANSAS! MAGAZINE
Olathe
Concordia
Moundridge Hutchinson
PHOTOGRAPH Courtesy Garmin International
Kansas Makes the Goods for Outdoor Adventure
21 OUTDOORS & ADVENTURE 2020
lens
Ric Westman A conversation with KANSAS! photographers about their work and the iconic images of our home state
Ric Westman was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, but traveled across the United States with his military family. His first time living in Kansas was as an adult, back in the 1980s in Overland Park and Emporia. He returned to the state for retirement and now lives in Olathe, his base for photography excursions to photograph landscapes and wildlife.
What was the moment you wanted to become a photographer? I was 63 and had a job that required me to travel overseas. After a couple of trips, I realized I needed to photograph all the places I was visiting.
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY Ric Westman
What was your first camera? A Cannon EOS Digital. I liked the Cannon because it was easy to use and not very expensive. What is the hardest thing to photograph well? Wildlife. It’s hard to get close enough for a really good shot without spooking it and you never know what it will do. Birds, for example— when you think that birds are not going to do anything, that’s when they do something. Bald eagles, I’ve learned, spend about 98 percent of their time just sitting. I’ve sat and watched them for hours, just waiting for them to move. Then, sometimes, when birds do move, you wait again. I’ve sat for 3 hours waiting for a blue heron to catch just one fish. And you learn things just watching them. Eagles in particular, when they are perched, they are always looking around, moving their head and blinking. Ospreys, if you watch them, when
they are sitting, they will just bob their head up and down. What is your favorite Kansas landscape to photograph? Sunrises, sunsets and lightning. Tell us about your best chance photo taken in Kansas. That would be a lightning strike I captured in Overland Park one night from the top of the Prairie Fire parking garage. I happened to be living nearby and saw the storm coming. What have you learned from being an outdoors photographer that you wouldn’t have learned otherwise? The reward that comes with being patient. Photographing wildlife sometimes requires long periods of time just waiting, being very still and quiet. What is the most common photography advice for capturing the Kansas outdoors that you share with new photographers? Be patient. Be aware of what’s going on around and above you.
It takes time and patience to photograph birds. The thing that is neat about this though, is that when you spend that time watching them, you become almost enchanted by them.” –Ric Westman
23 KANSAS! MAGAZINE
OUTDOORS & ADVENTURE 2020
reasons By Kalli Jo Smith
Milford Farlington
Independence
Scott City
Marquette
Kansas
Where in Kansas?
Logan County
We
IN THIS ISSUE Great State Parks
HISTORIC LAKE SCOTT STATE PARK
Scott City This state park houses multiple historic landmarks throughout its prairieland. Located near Scott City, the park is a surprising oasis tucked away in the western portion of the state. Its fishing lake, natural springs, rocky bluffs and assortment of foliage can be found nestled deep within the Ladder Creek Canyon. The first inhabitants of the canyon were Native Americans. Visitors to the park can view the historic pueblo ruins dating back to the 1600s and located within the canyon. ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Locations/Historic-Lake-Scott | (620) 872-2061
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KANSAS! MAGAZINE
ELK CITY STATE PARK
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY (CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT) Jim Talbert, The Wichita Eagle, Bruce Hogle, Harland J. Schuster, Mile 90 Photography, Mike Tisdell
Independence Located in Montgomery County, this park is known for its dense wooded areas and vast meadows. The park also sits next to the Elk City Reservoir with over 12,000 acres of wildlife area, including access to viewing the large pileated woodpecker known for residing in the area. For those looking to get away, the park offers diverse trail systems, camping and beach swimming, as well as trail biking opportunities. ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/ Locations/Elk-City (620) 331-6295
MILFORD STATE PARK
LITTLE JERUSALEM BADLANDS STATE PARK
Logan County The recently opened Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park encompasses 332 acres of land owned by The Nature Conservancy. The beautiful badlands were once part of a family-owned ranch known as McGuire Ranch; however, it is now a park the public can hike and enjoy. The badlands feature unique geological formations of cliffs and 100-foot-tall spires of deteriorated Niobrara Chalk, a layer of rock deposited about 85 million years ago. Because the badlands are a fragile haven for wildlife and plants, visitors are allowed only on marked trails, walkways and overlooks. The park also includes two permanent hiking trails to scenic overlooks for visitors to photograph and enjoy. nature.org, travelks.com/little-jerusalem (620) 872-2061
Milford With its modern campgrounds, swimming beaches, picnic shelters and multi-purpose trails system, the park, located northwest of Junction City, offers a variety of fun outdoor activities for the family, including Milford Reservoir, where anglers catch crappie, largemouth bass and other fish. Milford’s beautiful wooded area offers scenic views and great photo opportunities for hikers. ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Locations/Milford (785) 238-3014
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CRAWFORD STATE PARK Farlington Located on the very edge of the Ozarks, this state park offers six campsites and diverse landscapes. With 500 acres of land and a 150-acre lake, families can rent a lakeside cabin or camp while they take advantage of the boating, fishing and swimming opportunities. For those looking to stay dry, biking and walking trails are available as well. ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/ Locations/Crawford (620) 362-3671
KANOPOLIS STATE PARK
Marquette The first state park in Kansas, Kanopolis State Park is along the Prairie Trail Scenic Byway northwest of Marquette. Located in the scenic Smoky Hills portion of the state, the wooded park offers more than 30 miles of trails open to hikers, horseback riders and mountain bikers. Its large lake and park offer plenty of fishing and hunting opportunities for licensed hunters. On top of its rugged charm, don’t miss your chance to get a glimpse of bald eagles and ospreys, who fish in the river during the winter. ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Locations/Kanopolis | (785) 546-2565
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must see an 2020
ZIPLINING Bonner Springs and Manhattan
Zip Line Park in Bonner Springs features a range of courses near the bluffs of the Kansas River while Manhattanbased Wild Wood Adventure Park offers ziplining, trail running and other physical adventures. zipkc.com and mhkadventures.com CABIN CAMPING Across Kansas Whether it’s a family overnighter or an extended stay in the woods, Kansas state parks offer cabin reservations year-round to enjoy the outdoors at your leisure. ksoutdoors.com/state-parks/ reservations LITTLE JERUSALEM BADLANDS STATE PARK GUIDED TOUR Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park The Nature Conservancy and KDWPT have partnered to allow public access to this stunning natural landmark in rural Logan County. Visitors can follow along on one of the footpaths or call (620) 872-2061 to schedule a guided tour. travelks.com/little-jerusalem
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EAGLE DAYS EVENTS January | Various Locations
Birding groups and nature centers host educational events to celebrate the state’s resident bald eagle populations as well as the hundreds of migrating pairs who winter in Kansas. See the story on page 18 for details on locations and events.
FEBRUARY KANSAS CITY GOLF SHOW February 14–16 | Overland Park Hosted at the Overland Park Convention Center, the KC Golf Show features a multitude of games and educational activities for all ages. kansascitygolfshow.com INTERNATIONAL PANCAKE DAY RACE February 25 | Liberal On Shrove Tuesday, the women of Liberal and Olney, England, compete against one another in timed races down the streets of each town—with pancake skillets. The 60-year-old tradition is like no other. pancakeday.net WILD & SCENIC FILM FESTIVAL February 25–28 | Various locations This year Friends of the Kaw hosts its 11th annual Wild & Scenic Film Festival for environmental enthusiasts. kansasriver.org
JANUARY
MARCH
KANSAS STATE PARK FIRST DAY HIKES January 1 | Kansas State Parks
LESSER PRAIRIE CHICKEN VIEWING March 15–May 15 | Oakley
Kansas joins other states across the nation in offering free admission to its state parks on this day so that individuals and families can connect with the outdoors at the start of the New Year. ksoutdoors.com/state-parks/specialevents/first-day-hikes
There are many opportunities to view the amazing prairie chicken mating dances in Kansas, but those new to the experience should probably book a tour with a guide such as the ones at the Buffalo Bill Cultural Center in Oakley. buffalobilloakley.org/tour-info/lesser-prairiechicken-viewing-tours
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PHOTOGRAPHS (FROM LEFT) KDWPT, Dave Leiker
EVERY MONTH
nd do DUST BOWL SERIES: KANSAS MARATHON 10K & 5K March 28 | Ulysses
The Kansas leg of a 5-state, 5-day series of 5 marathons, half marathons, 10k and 5k runs. Register for the full road trip, or come out to Frazier Park in Ulysses to cheer on the runners. mainlymarathons.com/series-3/ dust-bowl
APRIL OPEN RANGE GRAVEL RACE April 25 | Pratt This 200-kilometer (124-mile) route takes cyclists through some of the toughest landscapes of the Gyp Hills and High Plains before returning to Pratt for the finish. kawsports.com
MAY GARMIN DIRTY KANZA BIKE RACE May 30 | Emporia The state’s biggest gravel race and the world’s premier gravel grinder race with competition course categories up to 350 miles in length. This is for champions. dirtykanza.com
THIS IS A SAMPLING OF OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE THROUGHOUT THE YEAR. FOR A FULL, UPDATED SCHEDULE, GO ONLINE AT TRAVELKS.COM/EVENTS Because all events are subject to change, confirm with organizers before finalizing plans.
JUNE
BIKE ACROSS KANSAS June 6–13 | Colorado to Missouri Border Since 1975, cyclists have gathered for a week-long journey across the length of Kansas with each participant setting their own pace for the day and host towns welcoming the crowd along each stage of the route. bak.org YOUTH FISHING CLINICS June 6 | Various locations State parks and outdoor organizations host fishing rallies to inspire and educate the youngest generations on fishing as a sport and way of life. See story on page 16 for more details about groups and events.
JULY LAKE FEST & FIREWORK DISPLAY July 4 | Glen Elder State Park Family fun events and a fireworks display over Lake Waconda at Glen Elder State Park are part of the Fourth of July celebrations across Kansas state parks. All you need is a state park pass or car entry fee to join the celebration. ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Locations
ANNUAL AMELIA EARHART FESTIVAL & LAKE FEST July | Atchison A fun-run, carnival, food vendors, fireworks, live music and more pay tribute to Atchison’s aviation legend. visitatchison.com
AUGUST CASSODAY BIKE RUN August 2 | Cassoday The motorcycle rally starts in Cassoday and runs along the Kansas Turnpike and Highway 177. This event repeats throughout the year, so check online for available dates. cassodaybikerun.org CAMPGROUND CHRISTMAS August 15–16 | Lovewell State Park Campers decorate their campsites and cabins with Christmas decorations, and the public is invited to view the yuletidethemed event. Ksoutdoors.com (then type in “Campground Christmas” in site’s search bar)
3D ARCHERY TOURNAMENT September 13 | Lovewell State Park Lovewell State Park waives its admission fee for a day of competition at the park’s 14-station archery range. ksoutdoors.com GRINTER FARMS SUNFLOWER PATCH September | Grinter Farms Each year around the month of September, visitors from all over come to this farm in rural Leavenworth County to experience the beauty of one of Kansas’ biggest sunflower patches. facebook.com/GrinterFarms
OCTOBER APPLEJACK PUMPKIN PATCH Last weekend of September through October 31 | Augusta In this family atmosphere you’ll be sure to get into the fall spirit with pumpkin picking, corn mazes, ziplining and more. applejackpumpkinpatch.com OZFEST October 10 | Liberal An annual Wizard of Oz festival with family entertainment, music and more. dorothyshouse.com NASCAR CUP SERIES HOLLYWOOD CASINO 400 October 18 Kansas Speedway, Kansas City Big-time vrrooooooooooooom! and roaaaaaaaaaaaarrrr! kansasspeedway.com
LITTLE APPLE GLOW PADDLE October | Manhattan Costume contests, kayaks and canoes decked out with glow-in-the-dark gear and plenty of s’mores—that’s a party. mhkprd.com
NOVEMBER PHEASANT SEASON BEGINS November | Across Kansas One of the state’s most popular hunting seasons opens. For full listing of seasons on all legal game, go online at: ksoutdoors.com/Hunting/When-to-Hunt 2020 VETERANS CYCLOCROSS November 8 | Leavenworth Annual race on grounds of Veterans Administration Hospital held under USA Cycling CycloCross rules. lanternerougekansas.com
DECEMBER ILLUMINATIONS BOTANICA December | Wichita Enjoy the holiday season by visiting one of Kansas’ largest annual drive-thru light displays featuring over 2 million lights strung across the Botanica’s gardens. botanica.org/illuminations WINFIELD MAIN STREET LIGHTED CHRISTMAS PARADE December 12 | Winfield Dozens of Kansas towns will host parades and holiday celebrations such as this one in Winfield with outdoor attractions and family fun. winfieldchamber.org/winfield-mainstreet-events/lighted-christmas-parade
THIS IS A SAMPLING OF OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE THROUGHOUT THE YEAR. FOR A FULL, UPDATED SCHEDULE, GO ONLINE AT TRAVELKS.COM/EVENTS Because all events are subject to change, confirm with organizers before finalizing plans.
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PHOTOGRAPH Shutterstock
SEPTEMBER
Look what we’ve got! OasisOnThePlains.com
Just 53 miles east of the Colorado border on I-70
Voted a “Best Small Town in Kansas” by the readers of KANSAS! Magazine
200 Christmas Tree Display Nov.1 to Jan. 1! 10-5pm Wed-Sat | 1-5pm Sun
(785) 887-6148 | www.lecomptonkansas.com
wide open spaces
Taste of Kansas
Carp on the Fly! Looking for a novel, challenging fishing trip? Then try fly-fishing for some Kansas carp
By David Zumbaugh | Photography by Jonathan Blumb and Kansas Outdoor Corps
wide open spaces
F
ishing for carp with a fly rod is becoming popular in the Sunflower State. Carp reside in most Kansas waters, in plentiful populations; however, they are not simple to catch, which makes fishing for them a true sporting endeavor. Add a level of difficulty by pursuing them with an artificial fly instead of live bait and you have an authentic challenge. Making the effort worth your while is the fact these fish can grow to enormous size, frequently exceeding 20 pounds. All right, before we go any farther, let’s talk about the reputation of carp. Unfortunately, some people think carp are trash fish, but I haven’t found that to be true. They are cautious opponents worthy of targeting with your fly rod. Because of the strength of their fight, they’ve earned many nicknames; Joseph R. Tomelleri, a well-known outdoors artist from Leawood, Kansas, calls carp the “Great Plains steelhead.” Actually, “carp” is a bucket term for several species of fish. Common carp, silver carp, bighead carp, grass carp, bigmouth buffalo, small mouth buffalo and even goldfish are all commonly called carp. There are notable variations between these species, but they share an ability to grow quite large. The state
The best times of year to fish for carp are spring and summer when you can “sight” fish, as there will be pods cruising near the surface of lakes and rivers. They are acclimated to warmer waters, slower currents and muddy bottoms.
ABOVE LEFT A fly-fisher casts his line at a lake in Shawnee County. ABOVE RIGHT Author David Zumbaugh fly-fishes for carp on the Kansas River.
record for common carp is a whopping 47 pounds, while the mark for grass carp reached 78 pounds. Carp can be finicky, but most often gobble up anything in their path. After all, to grow as large as they do, they must consume a lot of food—and how they do this is important for anglers to understand. Carp find food via taste buds on whisker-like barbels near the mouth and also on fins and underneath the head. They eat insects, worms, mollusks, crustaceans, algae and other plant material such as ripe mulberries, that plop into their lairs. Proper gear for catching these big-appetite, large-size quarry means medium-weight rods at the minimum, matched with heavy, large arbor reels and stout leaders. Attractive bugs range in size from #4 to #10 and various patterns can appeal to fish. Orange egg imitations or fuzzy insect styles have been proven effective. San Juan worms can be efficient when you see heads down and tail up, indicating they are feeding on the bottom. There are unique flies available for pursuit including the “carp daddy” and “carp carrot.” In murky environs, some people use tiny rattles inserted into bugs to attract attention. In clear water, carp can be easily spooked and will react skittishly to
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Silver Carp
Silver carp (sometimes called Asian carp) have proliferated in the Kaw or Kansas River. These fish are famous for leaping out of the water and sometimes right into a motorboat when disturbed. At times the surface of the river explodes with these invasive species, and they have even caused injury to boaters. Although wary, they can be caught on a fly with proper techniques, equipment and determination. Access to the river can be found near the boat ramps established by the Friends of the Kaw and mapped online at kansasriver. org. One important thing to remember though: the silver carp are an invasive species and while they have settled into places like the Kansas River, there is still a concerted effort to keep them from spreading to lakes and ponds. It is illegal to move these carp into other habitats, or to take them into bodies of water as bait.
movement or the thrashing of your line on the water. It is best to keep the sun in your face while casting to prevent them from seeing your shadow. They can also detect minute vibrations, so be quiet and stealthy on the shoreline. Where is the best place to fly-fish for carp? The Kansas and Arkansas rivers and associated tributaries are hotspots depending on flow rates. Most city parks, county and state lakes are viable spots, while the backwaters of larger federal reservoirs can produce giants. Farmers have stocked grass carp in ponds to control weed growth, so private spots can be productive too. There is ample access and opportunity to pursue these fish near most Kansas towns. The best times of year to fish for carp are spring and summer when you can “sight” fish, as there will be pods cruising near the surface of lakes and rivers. They are acclimated to warmer waters, slower currents and muddy bottoms. If you do not have access to a boat, you can fish off the bank. With a few violent strikes, your efforts will be well rewarded. Once you discover their lairs or sight them, then you’ll need a bit of finesse to put a bug directly in front of a carp’s face and entice it to take a fly. The depth of the swimmers will dictate the type and sinking speed of the fly. With that selected, then it’s up to you to provide a gentle cast with a soft landing in just the precise spot to enhance your chances for a wild run. Long distance and accurate punches are sometimes required. Keep false casts to a minimum to prevent alarming wary fish. Fishing from the bank can be tricky because it’s easy to snag your line on tree branches and underwater vegetation. Practice your techniques and become familiar with your tackle to prevent tangles when the bite is on. Persistence and patience can yield rod-bending excitement equal to hooking smallmouth bass and even tarpon with their legendary runs and screaming reels, producing sore thumbs but great memories. Granted, there are times when the challenge of fly-fishing for carp is more accurately described as the frustration of fly-fishing for carp. And in all honestly, there have been days when I’ve found fly-fishing for carp to be more disappointing than enjoyable. And that’s okay. If the carp simply aren’t biting, there is no reason to punish yourself. Fishing is, after all, something to do for enjoyment—and there are plenty of other fish to catch and plenty of other ways to enjoy the outdoors. The carp will get hungry another day. And when they do, you can be ready for them.
Retail Support Many local bait shops can provide tips on where to pursue carp in your area. Fishing departments at big-box stores usually have knowledgeable staff who can offer advice and gear to get you started, as well as some introductory classes. For specialty fly outfitters check out Ark River Anglers in Wichita, arkriver.com, and K&K Fly Fisher in Overland Park, kkflyfisher.com.
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Fly-fishing for carp can be a test of patience and ability. There will be days when you make dozens of casts without a result—but when a carp bites, they will challenge an angler with a fun, difficult fight.
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Campfire Cooking of Carp With proper recipes, carp can be tasty fare. And I’ve found that the single best ingredient for cooking carp (or any fish really) is an open campfire. After you have deftly caught a keeper fish, work it over with a razor-sharp fillet knife into bite-sized morsels or filets like my mother used to do. You can then rinse them off in the water they were snatched from as the forthcoming 350-degree scalding oil bath will eliminate any contaminants. Next, if someone hasn’t started your campfire for you, start it up and then fill a camp pot, cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven with a measure of canola or peanut oil (enough so that it allows the fish you will cook to float in the oil) and carefully place on a grate over a bed of glowing campfire coals. As the oil heats up, immerse the fish into a pan of beaten eggs, milk and beer (my favorite to use is Free State Beer’s Ad Astra Ale, but your favorite Kansas brew will work just as well). For a mess of up to 25 fillets, you will need about 4 eggs, 1.5 cups of milk and 8 ounces of beer. As the fish soak up the wet ingredients, you can prepare the dry batter. There are many recipes for batter, but when I camp I like to go simple and use pancake mix with black pepper and salt for flavor at a ratio of one teaspoon of salt and one teaspoon of pepper for every pound of pancake mix. You can also add in red or cayenne pepper to taste. Once the fish has been soaked and daubed in batter, immerse the fish into the pan of oil. Start adding pieces to one side of the pan and removing the fried pieces from the other side. Use caution when adding the battered fish to the oil to avoid splatters. You probably have to flip the fish over once or twice with tongs or a fork. You can tell when they are done by the golden-brown color and crispy texture. Drain excess oil by placing the finished fillets on a tilted pie plate for a few minutes. Typical side dishes for a shore lunch include baked beans, applesauce and bread of some sort. I like thick cut sourdough to go best with campfire fish meals. Enjoy! A school of common carp swim in shallow water. Often, catching carp is a matter of finding their lair at a time when they are hungry.
Beyond the Hunt Many beagles live out their lives as family pets. According to the American Kennel Club, beagles are the sixth most popular breed in the United States. Beagles have been in the top ten breeds as long as records have been kept. But many beagles work, and not just in hunts. Beagles have been used to track wounded game, such as white-tailed deer, to prevent harvest loss. Security authorities use beagles to sniff out illegal drugs, explosives, or the transport of illicit agricultural products.
They might be one of the most dainty of hunting dogs, but beagles’ hearts are always in the chase, and their tracking skills are certainly worth baying about
Story by David Zumbaugh Photography by Jonathan Blumb
G
enerally, hunters choose their dogs based on what type of hunting they will do: pointers and spaniels for hunting pheasants or retrievers for hunting geese. But one of my all-around favorite breeds is the beagle. Granted, Americans generally view beagles as companions (maybe that’s the “Snoopy” effect). And, indeed, the gentle beagle with its mild temperament makes a great pet and loyal friend. Standing 15 inches or less at the shoulder and generally weighing no more than 35 pounds, they are often viewed as eternal puppies. But these adorable animals are determined and intense in the field. Beagles are scent hounds, developed from the crossing of several different types of hounds to hunt fox and hare. When beagles chase prey, their cute floppy ears and stubby legs turn into assets: the ears keep close to the ground to catch sounds of their prey and the abbreviated legs—while they don’t “Some people like rock, country allow for tremendous speed—carry the or pop; my music starts when dogs through brambles and growth where the tailgate drops, and the taller dogs cannot quickly maneuver. dogs cut loose,” writes Robert Rabbit hunters do not want the beagles Ford, known as the “Beagle to chase their quarry so fast that it will “go Bard.” Ford has written ten to ground,” meaning down into a den or books on beagles and trains, a brush pile. Devoted breed aficionados hunts and runs his dogs in field believe these little four-footed beasts are trials. His blog, beaglebard. the best of the best. com, is a great introduction to Novice hunters will want to begin training beagles one by one but eventually the culture of beagle hunting. Other authoritative national will want to gather a small pack. Beagles sites on beagles include hunt best in groups of at least three, and nationalbeagleclub.org and they work well together when following a akc.org/dog-breeds/beagle. scent. It is easy for hunters to follow their trail as each beagle has a unique “bay” (the hunting howl that is separate from a bark) and can be identified in the field at great distances by their tone, timing and volume. When a pack is released, it is often amusing to listen to the widely varying vocalizations and intensity level of the individual dogs. Beagling opportunities in Kansas abound with thousands of acres available in a covert near you. Most of the 78 Kansas Wildlife Management Areas have brushy habitats for cottontails to thrive. The many Walk In Hunting Areas (WIHA) on private lands offer choice environs for beagles to find a rabbit or two and earn their kibble. Federally managed properties in Kansas have hunting opportunities available including four National Wildlife Refuges (Kirwin, Quivira, Flint Hills and Marais de Cygnes), the Cimarron National Grasslands and acres surrounding the Army Corps lakes, such as Wilson and Toronto. Another excellent opportunity exists wherever there is an overgrown farmstead. Like other species of wildlife, rabbits tend to thrive in abandoned “home places.” Rabbit season in Kansas is open year-round, but the most exciting opportunities for success are when a powdery snow blankets the earth. This enhances the scenting prospects for beagles and provides an edge for hunters as they can see furry brown flashes more easily against the white background, improving the chances for the beagles to identify and chase their prey toward their hunter companions.
National Resources
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Kansas Beagles If you are considering starting a beagle hunting pack, the best way to learn is to attend a beagle show or field trial. Beagle field trials are held throughout the United States, and in Kansas the local organization is the Eastern Kansas Beagle Club, which schedules events at Hillsdale Lake near Spring Hill, Kansas. All beagles are welcome with a registration fee (also called a “premium�). Entrants are certified by breed standards before they can run. If you wish to attend a trial, contact the club for dates and more information by going online at easternkansasbeagleclub. blogspot.com.
Beaglology 10 words to know for hunting with beagles Beagle Bug
a hunter who loves to work with beagle packs
Bouncer
a hound that bounces when it sees (rather than smells out) its quarry
Cast
an alteration in course that beagles make to recover a lost line of scent
Flier
a fast hound who leads the pack
Full Cry
baying and barking from the pack as they move at top speed in pursuit of their quarry
Line
the scent trail of the quarry that can be picked up by a pack
Open
the moment when hounds begin excited barking after picking up a line of scent
Pack
a minimum of three beagles hunting as a team
Riot
the name for the pack when it begins trailing something other than the intended quarry
Trash-proof
a beagle who is not distracted and tracks only their intended quarry
KANSAS! MAGAZINE
Story by Toni Dixon Photography by Brian Goodman
Three Kansas adventurers share their essential gear for enjoying the outdoors
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When you’re hiking, it is important to have a pair of BOOTS that fit you well, are comfortable, and have good traction.
WITH STEPHEN GARLOW Stephen Garlow is a lifelong outdoors person and an avid hiker. “I’ve never had any trouble finding a place to hike,” he says of the network of Kansas trails. “There is beauty everywhere.” Family camping trips and Boy Scouts instilled a sense of preparedness, so it’s no surprise that a water bottle and first aid kit top his list. “Better safe than sorry,” he notes. He adds that a good trail knife—Garlow uses a Swiss Army model—comes in handy for many tasks, such as opening cans or bottles, cutting bandage wraps for first-aid emergencies or simply slicing up a snack during a trailside break. With many years and many miles of hiking behind him, Garlow suggests adding a few other items. “Cascading tracking poles give me more stability and more efficiency,” he says. Though Kansas is not mountainous, Garlow says he has benefited from using tracking poles on the rugged Kansas trails at Elk City State Park and Kanopolis State Park, and also found them helpful when wandering the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve. With a pole, Garlow says, “Your energy is 25 percent more efficient, particularly going uphill.” And going downhill, he adds, “it gives me another balance point, and they’re particularly good in mud or snow.”
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WATER is the first thing on the list, no matter how far you plan to go. Don’t leave the car without it.
A HAT with a broad brim will keep the sun off your ears and neck. A vent at the crown improves circulation. A chin strap lets you take it off without leaving it behind!
A SWISS ARMY KNIFE is a multi-tool that comes in handy for anything from removing a sticker to slicing an apple.
POLES or a HIKING STICK help you go farther and last longer because they make walking more efficient and aid balance.
A FIRST AID KIT can determine whether you continue a hike on a gorgeous day or turn around and limp home.
A COMPASS and A MAP to keep you oriented.
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AN AIR PAD, in this case a SeaToSummit, can mean a more comfortable night’s sleep.
Tire repair tools include A STEM REMOVER, SEALANT to stop most punctures short of a major gash, plus A TIRE PUMP and PRESSURE GAUGE. Use the THREEWAY ALLEN WRENCH to change the brake pads, as this bike has disc brakes. CHAMOIS BUTT’R keeps your rear from chafing. You either tough it out or use something like this to keep the friction down. Why tough it?
THE SPOT TRACKER helps people locate you. It also has an SOS button. For competitive racing, the spot tracker also validates that you completed the course.
WITH JONATHAN GROENE Jonathan Groene is an experienced bike-packer who has biked the Continental Divide. He also savors adventures closer to his home, such as biking the width of Kansas, riding through the Flint Hills for days at a time, or circumnavigating the rough and tumble 37mile circumference of Clinton Lake in a day. “We need to break through the idea that adventure has to be in a mountainous area or look exotic,” he advises. “It’s just limited to a person’s imagination.” When it comes to gear, Groene says take what you need to make your adventure a success—and success depends on how you define it. “Don’t drag along 100 pounds of gear if you’re not going to use all 100 pounds. Alternatively, if you really want hot coffee in the morning, take what you need.”
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The choice of BIKE depends on what you want to do. A second-hand, single speed can provide an enjoyable day of pedaling. If you’re going on gravel roads or long distances, you’ll need heavier tires and wheels and a bike with a sturdier frame.
A FRAME BAG carries the things you need most often, especially a water bladder, which is an absolute essential. But don’t fill the frame bag so full it rubs when you’re peddling.
The importance of A QUALITY HELMET cannot be overstated. You can get high quality at a good price, so don’t simply buy the cheapest one.
Wear A BIKE HAT under the helmet. It keeps your head warm and provides some shade under the helmet.
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A LIFE JACKET specifically made for kayaking has pockets for small items and a high waist-cut so the jacket doesn’t interfere with the kayak seat.
Include gear that tames the elements as much as possible. MOSQUITO REPELLENT and HIGH-SPF SUNSCREEN (one specifically for your face and one for the rest of you) will make sure mosquito bites and sunburn don’t spoil an otherwise serene day on the water.
A WIDE-BRIMMED HAT will keep the sun off your face and neck.
A WATERPROOF BAG will protect your wallet and cell phone.
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POLARIZED SUNGLASSES with a strap provide the clearest view to enjoy sunrises and sunsets.
KANSAS! MAGAZINE
WITH BLAIR SUTTON When it comes to KAYAKS, the modern boats are a lot more comfortable, with better seats and better padding.
AN INSULATED WATER BOTTLE will keep water refreshing on hot days. Bring 16 ounces of water per person per hour on the river. Keep our lakes and rivers clean by avoiding disposable bottles.
Blair Sutton loves all sorts of outdoor adventure, including kayaking the lakes and rivers of Kansas. It’s a sport that benefits from repeat, year-round trips along the same route, he notes, because seasons in Kansas bring big changes in the water flow and landscape—vistas open as the leaves fall and bird migrations bring in waves of wildlife. With a wide network of state parks and plenty of access points along the state’s two National River Trails (the Kansas River and the Arkansas River), Sutton says there is plenty of opportunity to paddle. “On an evening after work, grab your kayak and go to a local county fishing lake or Army Corps of Engineers reservoir,” he says. “You can paddle for a couple of hours to take in a great evening sunset.” You’ll be glad to have A PUMP to get the water out of the kayak.
Sutton does note that the state’s river conditions can vary greatly from week to week. Organizations such as the Friends of the Kaw advise on river current strengths for safety, and ranger staff at state parks can caution when conditions might be hazardous at the park lakes. But ultimately, every kayaker or canoe paddler is responsible for outfitting themselves with essential safety gear. “Before you put your kayak in the water,” Sutton says, “make sure you know the water conditions and have a plan. Next, grab your sun protection, hydration and life jacket.”
GLOVES WITHOUT FINGERS allow dexterity while protecting your hands from blisters. If you can afford to upgrade, LIGHTER PADDLES will make it easier on your arms and shoulders on a long day. SHOES WITH TOES protect your feet when you are launching and landing your kayak.
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K A N S A S !
gallery
JEFF McPHEETERS | DOUGLAS COUNTY
DANTON McDIFFETT | OTTAWA COUNTY
HARLAND J. SCHUSATER | CHASE COUNTY
SCOTT BEAN | GEARY COUNTY
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KATHY SWIGER | GOVE COUNTY
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Scott Bean Photography K A N S A S L A N D S CA P E A N D N AT U R E P H OTO G R A P H S
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!!
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www.scottbeanphoto.com
Russell County Kansas
Russell County Eco Devo & CVB 331 E Wichita Russell, KS 67665 785.483.4000 www.russellcountyks.org
rededicate
The chance to make a difference exists in every corner of our community.
rediscover
Extraordinary experiences can be found right here in the Flint Hills.
return to the flint hills Manhattan, Kansas is a great community for you to rededicate, rediscover and reimagine. Our stable economy, affordable cost of living, numerous housing options, entertainment and excellent medical facilities assure you of a comfortable, exciting lifestyle. Make our community your home. Return to the Flint Hills. Contact us for a free info packet to learn more about returning to Manhattan. 785-776-8829 | www.ReturnToTheFlintHills.com
reimagine
Surrounded by beautiful scenery makes it easy to escape and connect with others.