We have gone to Wichita, Kansas many times, normally just heading down the interstate. A few weeks ago we headed that direction, but took a detour so that we could enjoy the scenery of the Flint Hills Scenic Byway. The flat-topped hills of limestone and flint are accented by the tallgrass prairie and cattle ranches.
This road stretches between Council Grove on the northern end to Cassody on the southern end. You will drive through the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, which has nearly 11,000 acres of never-plowed prairie. Beautiful waves of bluestem and other native grasses create a “grassland ocean.”
Historic sites along the byway include history of native people, pioneers, and those seeking their fortune in the Old West. Hiking trails are available at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve. The link below outlines information about the byway:
http://www.naturalkansas.org/flint.htm
Other spots you might want to check out include:
https://cosmo.org/ This is an amazing place in Hutchison! Our family has been there many times. It includes a Hall of Space Museum, planetarium and digital theater. They have wonderful education camps and programs throughout the year.
http://www.kansastravel.org/greensburgbigwell.htm The town of Greensburg, KS is home to largest hand dug well and the world’s largest pallasite meteorite.
My sister-in-law, Kari, gave us a book “Great American Scenic Drives” which maps out the most distinctive and and outstanding drives across the country. It also includes tips for what to see and do as you travel. It inspired us to slow down and enjoy the scenery along the way.
Happy Travels!
