Eisenhower State Park straddles the Flint Hills and a miles of water
Eisenhower State Park, Kansas
Nearly 30 miles of trails explore the rolling hills adjacent to Melvern Lake.
Trail Eisenhower State Park trail system
Overview
Only 90 minutes from Downtown Kansas City, Eisenhower State Park brings visitors into the prairies and Flint Hills of central Kansas. This is big sky country. The park is 1,700 acres in size and is divided between prairie and woodland. It borders the gargantuan Melvern Lake – nearly 7,000 acres large. Alongside Melvern is additional Corps of Engineers land to explore. A highlight of Eisenhower State Park is the 20-mile, wild and rambling horse trail network. There are other trails, too, but they’re closer to camping areas and traffic. The Flint Hills in this area aren’t quite as elevated as their cousins to the east and south, but they still deliver serenity and a feeling of splendid isolation. In addition to camping, the park offers cabins and even yurts for rent (scroll below for the state park website)
Drive Time It’s 90 minutes from Downtown Kansas City to the Eisenhower State Park office.
Length There are about 30 miles of trails of varying types in the park.
Address and location 29810 S. Fairlawn Road, Osage City, Kansas, 66523
Conditions The horse trail, which is the longest, is a natural surface trail. That means it’s muddy when wet. Pedestrian and bike trails are gravel surfaced. All trails, including the horse trail, are well-marked and maintained. Although it’s easy to follow, the horse trail’s sheer size (20 miles) makes it easy to get disoriented. A map or GPS tool is recommended.
Kid friendly? There are many opportunities for children to enjoy these trails. The horse trail will require everyone to walk. Other trails may be more crowded but are also more accessible.
How busy? Holidays, weekends and warm weather increase the population of this park. The area is large enough, however, that remote hikers will have plenty of peace. If you want a quieter experience, avoid peak days and seasons.
Pets Yes, on a leash.
Bikes Yes (and horses).
