Grab the Winter Boots for this Hike in Kansas that’s 100% Worth Braving the Cold

Lucas, Kansas, is a tiny little town in Russell County with a small population – fewer than 335 people – but a big sense of spirit. Don’t let its small size fool you; there’s plenty to do in and around here, including some of the best hiking in the Sunflower State. Take, for instance, the Rock Town Trail – one of the best hikes in Kansas that takes on an especially awesome vibe in the winter. Located within the Wilson Lake Recreation Area at Lucas Park, this trail features some of the most interesting geological features in the state.  

The trail is popular in terms of hiking trails in Kansas, but let’s be real here: Winter isn’t exactly the busy season for our state’s trail systems. It’s easily one of my favorite times of year to hike; the trails are quiet, and the occasional coating of snow and/or ice makes for a wonderland like no other. It gets cold, of course: In January, lows typically dip down into the teens, and highs might only reach the twenties - but that’s okay. With the right gear, it’s not only doable but also preferable. To avoid freezing, I highly recommend visiting my friends at REI; I have a pair of the Snowmageddon winter boots, and I absolutely adore them. They’re comfortable and perfectly warm without going overboard, making any hiking trail a little bit easier.  

The Rock Town Trail is easy and only about two and a half miles long, making for an excellent early-morning or afternoon hike. Wilson Lake is one of my all-time favorite places in the great state of Kansas, and being able to explore it all on foot is a tremendous honor. The trail showcases all the best things about our beautiful state; there isn’t much shade, though, so do be prepared for that – and pack plenty of water even though it’s cold (hydration is still immensely important).  

The trailhead (where you’ll begin and conclude this adventure) is on the eastern side of Rocktown, which is impossible to miss thanks to its unique geological features. That’s why it’s called Rocktown after all – the 15-to-30-foot-tall rock spires jutting up from the landscape make this hike the wonder-filled delight that it is. In fact, USA Today has called it one of the 51 best hikes in the USA, and once you’ve done it, you’ll see why.  

Of course, reaching the lake is still my favorite part. Few things in this life are as satisfying to me as sitting between those wild rock formations and simply observing the lake in all its incredible beauty; it’s the epitome of peace and quiet, and it quiets the soul. Kansas, in general, is a soul-soothing place for me – but Wilson Lake has a special place in my heart. I stumbled upon it by accident in 2018, and ever since, it’s been my favorite lake in Kansas.  

For more information about this jaw-dropping winter hike in Kansas, be sure to visit the official Rock Town Trail AllTrails listing. It might just become your new favorite! Do you have any favorite winter hiking trails in Kansas? Tell me about them by filling out our nomination form!