Things are warming up (or are they?) but when there’s a nice day in the forecast, don’t forget to check your bucket list and head out on this stunning trail in southeast Kansas. It might be little-known, but we’d love to share it with you and get more people out and exploring our beautiful state.
For stunning photos of Kansas nature right from Kansans themselves, join our Kansas Nature Lovers group on Facebook! We’ve got members from all over the state and beyond.
Welcome to the Elk River Hiking Trail, in Elk City, Kansas. It’s a 14-mile trail that goes from one end to the other, so make sure you have enough stamina to backtrack once you reach the end.
Mindy Simmons Maybe bring your trusty walking stick, too.
It isn’t the easiest trail to follow, but as long as you watch your step and have plenty of time on your hands, you should do fine.
Mindy Simmons
Oh, did we mention there’s a gorgeous waterfall hiding in here? It varies from a trickle to a pour, but a day or so after it’s rained well is the perfect time to see it’s beauty. In wet winters, you’ll find that it also freezes to form a sight you can’t see just anywhere.
Carol Farrow/AllTrails After this point, what could get better?
Much of the trail is lined with rocks higher than your head, as if it were carved out of the earth over time.
Mindy Simmons
There’s even a natural doorway for you to step through, but what awaits on the other side?
Mindy Simmons Hint: it’s more water!
After a little ways, you’re greeted with this gorgeous sight: a Kansas sky over the lake.
Mindy Simmons
Elk City Lake is a sight worth seeing in any season, and it marks the end of your journey. Choose to keep hiking along the lake to the end of the trail or head back, saving some of your energy for the hike to the beginning.
Mindy Simmons
You’ll find this hiking trail along US-160 in Elk City, Kansas. Here’s a handy map to help you get there as well. Happy trails!
Mindy Simmons
Maybe bring your trusty walking stick, too.
Carol Farrow/AllTrails
After this point, what could get better?
Hint: it’s more water!
Of course, if you’d like a shorter trail with more photo opportunities, check out this one at Mushroom Rock State Park. It really rocks.
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