Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve
Fodor's choice
Containing the last vestiges of the bluestem, or tallgrass, prairie, that once covered much of the Great Plains, this preserve also includes a stone mansion and barn built in 1881. Hiking-trail maps are at the visitor center or at kiosks near the park's historic ranch buildings. Routes range from less than 4 miles to 13 miles. Hikers should be cautious of bison and not approach if they come in close contact. A short training session about safe backcountry hiking is offered at the visitor center during daytime hours. Three catch-and-release ponds are open to the public for fishing, with a Kansas fishing license.
