National Grasslands Hikes in Kansas That Rival Theodore Roosevelt National Park

When I think of President Theodore Roosevelt, I think of the great outdoors, moose, and rustic cabins. If I think of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, I picture bison and prairie dogs dotting the horizon between blades of slender grass. It's hard to separate the mythic man from his legacy of protecting our public lands. However, between the grasslands and herds of bison, Roosevelt's namesake park isn't the only protected place where we can experience them. There are two protected grasslands with picturesque hikes just as lovely and wildlife-filled as those in the national park, and you can find both in Kansas!

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve

Located in the Flint Hills near Cottonwood Falls, the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve is one of the last remaining tallgrass prairies. It is currently the largest one left, in fact. Living in this protected ecosystem, you might spot bison, prairie dogs, foxes, coyotes, and all kinds of birds. Although it's protected, you can still hike through this majestic preserve without endangering the nature around you. Just keep in mind that these prairie hikes mean little shade, so be sure to pack enough water for the journey.

The Windmill Pasture Hilltop Trail will bring you three miles out and back into the tallgrass prairies. This easy hike offers incredible views of the surrounding grasslands, wildflowers, and animal life with minimal effort. The best part is that if you want to see the grasses at their full height, visit in late summer or early fall. The temperatures will be cooler, and the grasses will be at their highest, providing an optimal hiking experience. You'll never forget seeing bison, in particular, among Kansas' rolling prairies.

Cimarron National Grassland

While some refer to Cimarron National Grassland as a "hidden gem," it's a place that many know and love. Similar to Tallgrass Prairie, this protected landscape is home to a remarkable abundance of prairie life. It is the biggest piece of public land in Kansas and one of only 20 national grasslands in the nation. Miles upon miles of grasslands, sage brush, and wildflowers blanket this region. If you're up for the task, you can see much of it with one big hike along the storied Santa Fe Trail.

You can hike 19 miles of the original Santa Fe National Historic Trail located within Cimarron, making it the largest stretch of trail on public land. You can find the trail between the Murphy and Conestoga Trailheads. Keep an eye out for limestone posts; these will denote where the original trail once stood. You may also see grooves dug into the ground from wagons from the trail's heyday of 1821 to 1846. Not only does this trail showcase the majestic protected grassland, but it also immerses you in the area's history by allowing you to walk the same trails many have walked over the years.

Feeling inspired to see the grasslands for yourself? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.