The Flint Hills of Kansas offer a rare sight into the vast grasslands that once strained across much of the continent. Known for their nearly treeless beauty these rolling hills signify one of the last remaining tallgrass grasslands in the world.

 


Things to Do

 

Start your journey at the Flint Hills Discovery Center in Manhattan where a 4-D theatre experience brings the prairie to life. You can feel the wind and watch virtual smoke rise from a prairie fire as you learn about the exclusive ecosystem of bluestem grass which makes up the last important stretch of unbroken tallgrass prairie on Earth.

 

From there, head out to Konza Prairie Biological Station where you can hike trails that weave through native prairie. The 2.6-mile Nature Trail leads you through lowland woodlands a flowing creek and limestone points. At the summit you'll be satisfied with panoramic views of the Flint Hills and the Kansas River Valley.

 

A short drive east takes you to Mount Mitchell Heritage Prairie Park where you can hike among towering bluestem grasslands and discover a historic landscape rich with human stories. This land once owned by objector William Mitchell played a character in the Underground Railroad. Native American history is also honored here as the site contains burial grounds sacred to local tribes.

 

Further south, visit Council Grove to walk the Neosho Riverwalk, which follows part of the historic Santa Fe Trail. Here explanatory signs tell the story of wagon trains crossing the river at a dangerous point on their journey westward. Relax near Riverbank Brewing where you can sample craft beers made with Kansas grains while enjoying scenic river site view.

 

Music in the Hills

 

Each June, the Symphony in the Flint Hills offers an memorable combination of music and prairie landscapes. This annual event structures the Kansas City Symphony performing a blend of classical and Western inspired music against the background of the rolling hills at sunset. The festivities include directed walks wagon rides and stargazing as the day turns into night.

 

Must-See Photo Spots

 

  • Chase County Courthouse: Built in the 1870s, this striking French Renaissance limestone structure is the oldest functioning courthouse in Kansas. The front facade with its red mansard rooftop and clock tower makes for an remarkable photo.

 

  • Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve: Travel over 11,000 acres of protected prairie where bison roaming and wildflowers are in bloom. Keep distance from the bison but snap many photos as you hike or join a ranger guided trip.

 

  • Allegawaho Memorial Heritage Park honors the last Kaw village in Kansas earlier the tribe was forced to transfer in 1873. Take a respectful dramatic photo of the 35-foot monument devoted to the Unknown Kanza Warrior but remember to detect the Kaw Nation's request to keep a humble distance.

 

With its sweeping vistas rich past and cultural significance the Flint Hills region requests you to step back in time and knowledge the beauty of the tallgrass prairie.