The Easy 2.7-Mile Konza Prairie Nature Trail Will Lead You Through The Kansas Prairie
By Rachel Pfutzenreuter|Published January 12, 2022
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Rachel Pfutzenreuter
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Rachel lives just north of Chicago, she has two boys and a dog named Sky. She is always planning her next trip, and loves to help friends, family, and her readers find their next adventure.
Kansas has many interesting hiking trails for you to explore. You may not find tall mountains like those out west perhaps, but don’t you worry, Kansas boasts a host of fascinating geological elevations including rolling hills and rocky spires. For example, the Konza Prairie Nature Trail in Manhattan, appropriate for all skill levels, showcases not only tall-grass prairie, but also a forest, and the picturesque Flint Hills.
The 2.7-mile Nature Trail loop is one of three trails at the Konza Prairie, with all three sharing the same trailhead.
The Nature Trail begins with a bit of an upward climb to an overlook. Take all the time you need, and when you reach the top, you will be rewarded with stunning views of the Flint Hills. The rest of the route is mostly flat. If you have more time and energy, consider extending your hike to 4.4 miles for the King’s Creek Loop or 6 miles for the Goodwin Hill loop.
Look around and you could be lucky enough to see some of the animals that inhabit this area, including bison and deer. In addition, many birds and lizards also call the prairie home.
In the spring, blooming flowers surround you. The Nature Conservancy has owned the Konza Prairie since 1977. Kansas State University manages it as a research site for studying the tallgrass prairie and its wildlife.
The predominant trees here are oak, elm, hackberry, walnut, and hickory. Off the main trail, and through the trees, you can visit the remains of the Hokanson Homestead. It was built in 1878 by Swedish settlers.
On a bright, sunny day, the scenic Flint Hills seem to roll on as far as the eye can see.
The Flint Hills were named for the abundance of chert, or flint, found in the limestone. The rocky soil in the hills made it less suitable for growing crops. Therefore, early settlers instead used the land for cattle ranching.
If by chance you are on the Nature Trail at dusk, you will be treated to a most beautiful sunset. Similarly, hike the trail at dawn for an inspiring sunrise to begin your day.
The Konza Prairie is open from dawn to dusk. Allow a couple of hours to hike the Nature Trail. A small donation is suggested for use of the trail, and please remember to leave your pets and bicycles at home. Occasional closings may occur due to inclement weather, or in April during the burning season.
Enjoy some fresh air out on the Konza Prairie Nature Trail. Learn more about the trail at the AllTrails website, or visit the Konza Prairie Nature Trail Facebook page.
Have you hiked the Konza Prairie Nature Trail? Share your thoughts with us!
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