St. Philippine Duchesne: Unexpected beauty in eastern Kansas
St. Phillipine Duchesne Memorial Park Nature Trail
It’s an eclectic blend of nature, history and spirituality in a remote corner of the state.
Trail St. Philippine Duchesne Memorial Park
Overview
St. Philippine Duchesne Memorial is an unexpectedly scenic and rugged park that takes some work to reach. It’s an eclectic blend of nature, history and spirituality in a remote corner of eastern Kansas.
In 1841, St. Philippine, the park’s namesake, led Catholic sisters from France’s Society of the Sacred Heart here to establish a school for Potawatomi girls. Their work was bittersweet. The Native Americans had recently arrived at what was called Sugar Creek Mission due to a forced relocation ordered by the U.S. government. Their suffering, and the service of St. Philippine, are recognized and honored at the park. The Potawatomi named her “Woman Who Prays Always.” She was canonized in 1988.
The historical and reflective nature of the park is integrated with a well-preserved natural area in the The Osage Cuestas region of eastern Kansas. The Cuestas (hills or cliffs) interrupt the plains, revealing valleys, limestone-capped hills, clear streams and cedar forests. A nature trail winds through all of these environments.
In addition, the park includes:
A picnic area
Shrines, artwork and educational markers
An outdoor walk of the 14 Stations of the Cross, with original granite artwork
A memorial to the Potawatomi who died at the location.
Drive Time It’s about 75 minutes from Downtown Kansas City.
Length About two miles of trails loop through the woods and along the stream and hillsides.
Address and location
You’ll reach the park via one or two gravel roads, depending on which way you approach. It’s impossible to miss:
St. Philippine Duchesne Memorial Park, 8499 W. 1525 Road, Centerville, KS 66014Conditions These are natural surface trails that will be muddy after a rain or thaw. They are well maintained. On occasion, directional signs are missing or weathered. However, the park is small enough that it’s not possible to get truly lost. In tick season, wear repellent.
Kid friendly? Kids who can walk will enjoy this trail. It’s not stroller-friendly. There are creeks to play in and rocks to scramble over.
How busy? This is a lightly-trafficked trail.
Pets Yes, on a leash, unless stated otherwise..
