Posted in Kansas December 18, 2017 by

You’ll Want To Explore This Incredible Kansas Forest Where Time Stands Still

Some of Kansas is empty of any trees, like a barber came down and gave the Earth a close shave, leaving only the grasses behind. However, this amazing Kansas forest sits right next to a gorgeous lake, and makes up one of our favorite state parks. It’s like walking through a storybook scene full of trees and a lake, where nothing matters but the adventure at hand. Do you recognize this place yet?

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Today we're headed to Cross Timbers State Park, one of Kansas's most beautiful areas.
Cross Timbers State Park - Kansas Wildlife, Parks & Tourism Facebook
You'll find stacks and chunks of rock that look like they've been put there by someone long ago, but now they've become part of the ground you walk on.
Granger Meador/Flickr
The park is filled with sandstone that's been worn smooth by years of flowing water and wind.
Granger Meador/Flickr
It's so easy to get lost in the beauty of this little forest, even though you're following one of their marked trails through the trees and brush.
Granger Meador/Flickr
The park is great in any season, with spring bringing a beautiful moss covering most surfaces with a bright green carpet.
Granger Meador/Flickr
Even the natural steps aren't left out! Just be careful where you step.
Granger Meador/Flickr
In the fall, all the leaves turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold to make an autumnal rainbow against the blue sky.
Cross Timbers State Park - Kansas Wildlife, Parks & Tourism Facebook
Not only does it border Toronto lake, but there are a number of streams and creeks as you travel that attract wildlife of all kinds. Maybe you'll spot a fox or a family of deer?
Granger Meador/Flickr
In the winter, when Kansas actually gets snow that doesn't instantly melt, you'll find the park has become a winter wonderland.
Cross Timbers State Park - Kansas Wildlife, Parks & Tourism Facebook
It's so quiet, yet you can hear every noise including the creaking ice on the lake and snapping branches covered in snow.
Cross Timbers State Park - Kansas Wildlife, Parks & Tourism Facebook
Isn't this just a magical place to be?

Cross Timbers State Park is located at 144 KS-105 in Toronto, and here’s a map to help you find them. Happy trails!

If you’re in the mood to adventure through another amazing area of Kansas’s natural attractions, you should definitely check out Arikaree Breaks. They’ve been here since forever, but that doesn’t mean you should wait forever to go see them!

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