Konza Prairie: An island of pristine Flint Hills wildland
Konza Prairie near Manhattan, Kan.
Kansas State University and the Nature Conservancy have preserved nearly 7,000 acres of natural prairie.
Trail Konza Prairie Biological Station
Overview
The 6,800-acre Konza Prairie Biological Station demonstrates what the Flint Hills and Kansas prairie looked like 250 years ago. The preserve is vast, rolling, rocky and awesome. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in hiking Kansas or even the Midwest. Konza is a combination of wind-blasted ridges, rocky valleys and forested groves and bottomland. Far from being a desert, the reserve is intersected by crystalline streams, ancient boulders and spectacular wildflowers. Wildlife is also abundant, including numerous bird species, lizards, deer, bobcats, coyotes and prairie chicken (among others).Bonus
The Konza area is near Pillsbury Falls, contained within the Pillsbury Crossing Wildlife Area. The falls are 5-feet high and 40-feet wide. Visitors will have to ford a (usually) shallow stream to get a close view of the falls. This can be done on foot or in a vehicle. In addition, Manhattan, Kan., is a unique college town with distinctive shopping and dining in the Aggieville District.
Length There are 13 miles of trails in the preserve. The trail system consists of three loops, with the shortest being 2.6 miles.
Address and location Konza Prairie Biological Research Station, 100 Konza Prairie Ln, Manhattan, Kan., 66502
Conditions These trails are natural surfaces consisting of natural rock, crushed rock or mowed pathways. They are well maintained and easy to follow. Elevation changes will challenge hikers, with many ups and downs. The Konza hills rise between 300-400 feet above the surrounding Kansas River plain.
Kid friendly? This trail is for children who can carry their own weigh, don’t mind walking for a couple of hours and enjoy nature. Bikes are not allowed and strollers would be impossible to maneuver.
How busy? On pristine days, this area can be busy given its proximity to Manhattan, Kan. However, on weekdays and in the offseason, you may be nearly alone in the park.
Pets Prohibited.
Bikes Prohibited.
