Drive Along Rolling Prairies and Hidden Canyons on This Must-See Kansas Route 

We’re starting off this exciting adventure with a morning stroll along Flint Hills Trail. The entire trail stretches 118 miles from Osawatomie in the east to Herington in the west, with plenty of stops in between. This is the eighth-longest rail trail in the United States, so it deserves some recognition. Obviously, you won’t have time (or the energy) to trek the entire trail, so we’re just offering up a portion to kick things off and stretch your legs.

The next stop along this road trip is at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, just south of Strong City. The preserve is one of the last remaining tallgrass prairies in North America and offers scenic trails where you can meander and enjoy all of the natural beauty. The highlight here is the Bison Overlook Trail, where you might spot bison grazing against the backdrop of the sprawling prairie. It’s a great spot for a hike or a simple picnic.

Continue driving south and head toward Cottonwood Falls. This small, historic town is a lovely stop, with charming brick buildings and a quaint town square. Within Cottonwood Falls is the stunning natural gem known as Chase Lake Falls. While it may not be the tallest waterfall in Kansas, it still is a stunner, with gentle cascades down the stone facade. Take some time to relax and sit by the falls, enjoying the sounds of nature.

Next, we’ll ​​drive north toward Mushroom Rock State Park, a small yet fascinating park known for its unique rock formations that resemble mushrooms. These natural rock formations have stood the test of time and erosion, offering a glimpse of what the Kansas landscape might have looked like millions of years ago. Spend some time exploring the park and marveling at the geological features.

The Cheyenne Bottoms Refuge is one of the most significant natural areas in Kansas, and it's a prime destination for birdwatching and wildlife enthusiasts. Located in central Kansas, near the town of Great Bend, this expansive wetlands area spans approximately 19,000 acres, making it one of the largest inland marshes in the United States. Just keep in mind that the best time to visit is during migration seasons (March to May and September to November), so you might want to plan your trip accordingly!

We’ve found a great Airbnb accommodation for you to end the trip with, and it’s perfect for both pets and larger groups! This Kansas Hunting Lodge in Great Bend is massive, with eight bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms. On the property, you’ll have access to 20+ acres, with a fishing pond, plus plenty of wildlife viewing. Sounds like the perfect place to rest your feet after a long day on the road!