The Ancient Forest In Kansas That’s Right Out Of A Storybook

Kansas has more forested area than you might think, whether it's in the form of windbreaks, true forests, or planted ones. However, nothing is as breathtaking as a forest that seemingly climbed right out of a storybook. Everything from the water to the moss comes together to make the perfect picture of a storybook forest. Come take a look for yourself!

Welcome to Cross Timbers State Park, a beautiful area surrounding Toronto Lake that's just brimming with scenes out of a storybook.

Over 1,000 acres of land covered in trees, paths, and stones surrounding a beautiful lake. Members of the Osage tribe favored this location in the past, but today it's used for hiking, camping, and fishing. Wildlife here is thriving, so make sure to keep it clean while you visit.

Is this wall part of an ancient castle once built here, or maybe it was a secret cottage home in the trees?

Most likely neither, but rock faces breaking into pieces are a common occurrence in this area of Kansas. Maybe that's why it was so easy to make stone houses.

Moss lined paths make the walk a little slippery, but you can't deny how magical they look.

There's just something about a moss covered path that makes you feel like it's the way to go. But where will it lead?

Rocks of all types are worn into all sorts of smooth shapes by the water running over it for years.

Local beavers have chewed trees until they fall, and there are plenty of other wild creatures that make this area their home. How many can you spot during your hike?

The main trail takes you by the lake and through the trees, but experienced navigators can find plenty off-trail as well.

Once you reach the lakeside areas, it's simply breathtaking.

Cross Timbers is a fairytale forest for any season, covered in snow or blooming and green.

Make sure to add this state park and lake to your bucket list, and keep it in mind when you've got the urge to explore somewhere new.

For more information on the park itself, check out the Kansas Parks & Recreation website. Otherwise, happy trails!

Still on the hunt for more amazing trails and parks like this? This hiking trail in Elk City might just be one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Kansas.