10 Best Scenic Trips in Kansas
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There's a reason Dorothy said, "There's no place like home." In fact, there is no other state like Kansas. Its terrain is incredibly open, whether flat prairie or rolling country; it just seems to stretch into eternity. While some might think it lacks excitement, others appreciate the state's natural sense of tranquility and unique connection to nature. There is a variety in its uniformity that can really be confusing; even in the face of such openness, there are fresh features such as wetlands, waterways, and places where humanity has played its part. Uncover this Kansas mystery by starting with one of these scenic drives - an experience you won't regret:
No. 10 – Grouse Creek
Start Location: Winfield, Kansas
Final location: Silverdale, Kansas
Length: Mile 40
Best driving season: Spring, summer and autumn
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If you're looking for a road that's a slice of rural America, this Grouse Creek route fits the bill. Farms with limestone barns dot the landscape, and you can see bits of the creek bottom through the bluestem pastures. Stop at Dexter to chat with the locals and satisfy your sweet tooth at Henry Candy, where they prepare delicious treats right in front of your eyes.
No. 9 - Perry Lake
Start Location: Perry, Kansas
Final location: Newman, Kansas
Length: Mile 50
Best driving season: Spring, summer and autumn
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This trail around Perry Lake just north of Lawrence gives you great views of the water on a tree-lined road that isn't too windy. Recreational activities in the area range from horseback riding to swimming, and there are several moderate trails that allow you to see the area up close. The small town of Valley Falls is an essential stop if only to see its cobbled streets, but it also has quaint specialty shops and restaurants with great views.
No. 8 - Route K4
Start Location: Topeka, Kansas
Final location: Lacrosse, Kansas
Length: Mile 238
Best driving season: Spring, summer and autumn
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Travelers on K4 will see major changes in the landscape along the way and experience two completely different sides of the state. The western part, starting in Topeka, is covered with hilly terrain, and then abruptly changes into flat pastures to the very horizon in the east. There are not many gas stations along the route, so take the opportunity when the opportunity arises and just enjoy the peaceful scenery that flickers outside your windows.
No. 7 - Loop Olate-Abilene
Start Location: Olathe, Kansas
Final location: Olathe, Kansas
Length: Mile 311
Best driving season: All
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This itinerary is perfect for a weekend trip with an overnight stay in Abilene, especially beautiful in autumn when the leaves are changing, but good regardless of the season. Consider dining at Bellevue's historic Cottage House before heading out to Fort Riley. Abilene is full of beautiful historic buildings like the Lebold Mansion and A. B. Seeley House, and take pictures at the Madonna Monument on the trailhead in Council Grove.
No. 6 - Tuttle Creek Scenic Road.
Start Location: Manhattan, Kansas
Final location: Manhattan, Kansas
Length: Mile 53
Best driving season: Spring, summer and autumn
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As you circle Tuttle Creek Lake, there are many views of the water and hills. Even though the road is paved, expect your car to get a little dirty due to the dust and debris that collects from using the nearby farm. Stop in Ohlsburg to fill up when needed, get your feet out of the way, and see the historic post office founded in 1873.
When. 5 – Rural Kansas
Start Location: Bonner Springs, Kansas
Final location: Roulo, Kansas
Length: Mile 90
Best driving season: Spring, summer and autumn
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Much of this route follows the Missouri River, so during the warmer months there are plenty of opportunities to stop to fish or swim. As you race through the hills and valleys, enjoy the escape from the cities and all the hustle and bustle of them. If you're starting to tire of quiet solitude, stop to try your luck at an Indian casino just west of White Cloud, and Atchison has plenty of home cooking to fuel you for the next leg of your journey.
No. 4 - Scenic Highway 57.
Start Location: Junction City, Kansas
Final location: Dwight, Kansas
Length: Mile 22
Best driving season: Spring, summer and autumn
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Travelers along this path will not have to deal with traffic jams or winding roads, but they will be introduced to wide open fields that never seem to end. This is a country trip with no real signs of civilization other than a few farms and roaming cattle, so make sure your gas tank is full and provisions are packed before you set off. Once in Dwight, take some time to tour its historic building and chat with its infamously friendly people.
No. 3 - Wyandotte County Lake Park.
Start Location: Leavenworth, Kansas
Final location: Leavenworth, Kansas
Length: Mile 8
Best driving season: All
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Although it is a shorter trip, it deserves to be at the top of the list because of the incredibly beautiful views of the Wyandotte County Lake. If you bring your own lunch and fishing tackle, this walk can easily make for a day out that the whole family will enjoy. The winding road is littered with oaks, plane trees and hickories, and the park is home to the largest playground in the area.
No. 2 – Scenic Lane of Wetlands and Wildlife.
Start Location: Hoisington, Kansas
Final location: Stafford, Kansas
Length: Mile 115
Best driving season: Spring, summer and autumn
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This day trip passes through not one, but two of the world's most ecologically significant wetlands - Cheyenne Bottoms and Keevera National Wildlife Refuge. If the roads are dry enough, take the time to see these natural wonders and you may be rewarded with many endangered species such as the American crane or bald eagle. Stop at Great Bend for a bite to eat and see other animals at the Brit Spo Zoo and Predator Center, which is free to enter.
No. 1 - Flint Hills
Start Location: Manhattan, Kansas
Final location: Cassoday, Kansas
Length: Mile 86
Best driving season: Spring, summer and autumn
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The Flint Hills region of Kansas is particularly beautiful and is characterized by rolling hills, tall grass prairies, and limestone outcrops. Stop and explore the Konza Prairie Natural Area, one of the largest virgin expanses of tallgrass prairie in the world, and its many trails to see native plants and wildlife up close. All kinds of water activities are available in the Chase State Fishing Lake and Wildlife area, and a relatively easy hike will take visitors to three cascading waterfalls with plenty of photo opportunities.
