How many times have you wanted to just unwind, relax, or get some casual exercise in? These trails and parks are perfect for all your needs. They’ll help you change your life, and increase mental clarity. If you’re like me, you’re always looking for the best spot to take a mental health day!
1. Cheyenne Bottoms (Great Bend)
Cheyenne Bottoms is a large wetland area in Kansas that is also where Greyhound racing started. We don't exactly know how it was formed, but the results are gorgeous, I promise.
2. Geary Lake Falls (Junction City)
A wonderful spot to relax and embrace nature at it's simplest is right here. These falls are some of Kansas' calmer waterworks, and worth the work it takes to get to them.
3. The Konza Prairie (Manhattan)
As many an Eastern Kansan can tell you, this area of the Flint Hills is pure magic. The view is best seen at sunset, though, when colors paint the landscape in hues of red and gold.
4. Big Basin (Englewood)
In addition to being the location of St. Jacob's Well, the pool of water that's said to be haunted by those who died trying to touch bottom, there's plenty of other sights to see. There's over 2,000 acres of sinkholes, rock formations, and rolling hills.
5. Elk River Hiking Trail (Elk City)
This 15 mile trail might be a little much for most people, but if you've got a drive to be healthier or a love for nature, it's worth the sore feet. It's home to a small waterfall, gorgeous trees, and rock formations that can only be seen here in the Chautauqua Hills.
6. 4-State Lookout (White Cloud)
We love to act like you can see other states from your driveway in central Kansas, but sometimes we find a great example of what we're talking about. This point is a gorgeous spot for morning fog photography, sunsets, and storm shots. Who wouldn't want to visit?
7. Wilson Lake
Boasting at least 100 miles of shoreline, Wilson Lake is a great spot for any of your waterfront activities. There's gorgeous limestone outcroppings, opportunities to sail, and sometimes you can watch Kiteboarders ride both water and wind. Exciting? I think so!
8. Arikaree Breaks (Cheyenne County)
A great substitute for the Grand Canyon, this gorgeous scenery is another one-of-a-kind Kansas view. Centuries ago, water eroded a path in the ground, and you'd be surprised (or maybe not) what a Kansas sunset can do to these formations.
9. Cimarron National Grassland (Elkhart)
A point in this area served as an important point for weary travelers as they traveled the Santa Fe trail. With over 100,000 acres of land, there's plenty of gorgeous scenery to surround yourself with, and plenty of places for great photo opportunities.
10. Haskell-Baker Wetlands (Lawrence)
Holy moly, this is the source of some of my favorite wildlife and sunset shots. Though the animals will attract birdwatchers and the like during the day, sunrise and sunset are my favorite shooting times. Take a look for yourself!
11. Horsethief Canyon (Marquette)
Hiking the trail here is a little less daunting that some of the others at only 4.4 miles. The view, however will take all remaining breath away. The area is also a great home to spelunkers, as it's peppered with caves you're free to explore.
Can you attest to the incredible views at these locations? If you’re looking for more Kansas scenery, check out these gorgeous Kansas sunsets.
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