HIGHWAYS & BYWAYS OF NORTHWEST KANSAS

Carve Your Own Path Across the Prairie

Northwest Kansas is home to an extraordinary network of designated historic corridors and scenic byways. Tracing the timeless paths carved out by prehistoric wildlife, Native American trails, and 19th-century military scouts, our overland routes offer something rare: the total freedom of an unscripted journey.There is a unique sense of liberation in the hum of an engine against the vast high-plains horizon. Whether you're seeking a rugged backroad trek or a smooth highway cruise, these routes provide the ultimate backdrop for your next detour. Use our interactive map below to navigate historic corridors, locate dark-sky stargazing stops, and plan your route—or simply pick a direction and drive.

plot your course, take your time.

Check out our unique Byways and Tours. Tap into the content to learn more.

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Land & Sky Scenic Byway

Experience the nation’s first agriculturethemed byway. Stretching along K-27 through the far western edge of the state, this route features deep canyon drop-offs, massive sunflower fields, and a direct path to Mount Sunflower—the highest point in Kansas.

Western Vistas Historic Byway

Kansas’s first official historic byway takes travelers across an ancient ocean floor. Stretching across US-83 and US40, this corridor features monumental chalk formations like Monument Rocks and Little Jerusalem, alongside Native American ruins and western frontier sites.

Smoky Valley Scenic Byway

Named for the blue-grey mist that cradles the hills at dawn and dusk, the 60-mile Smoky Valley Scenic Byway cuts through a landscape carved by ancient inland seas. From the rolling prairie wildflowers to the dramatic 100-foot limestone cliffs of Cedar Bluff.

Post Rock Scenic Byway

Traversing the heart of the Smoky Hills along K-232, this compact, highly scenic drive showcases the ingenious limestone fence posts hand-carved by 19th-century pioneers. Offering sweeping vistas of Wilson Lake and an effortless gateway into the grassroots art hub of Lucas.

Oasis on the Plains Tour

Escape into the unexpected green spaces and deep water pockets of the High Plains. This route winds past tranquil reservoirs, state fishing lakes, and lush prairie valleys that offer a refreshing, waterside respite in the middle of wide-open country.

Three Rivers Tour

Trace the historic waterways that shaped the settlement of the West. Following the natural valleys of the Republican, Solomon, and Saline rivers, this scenic loop connects quiet river crossings, fertile farmland, and historic pioneer outposts.

Fort to Fort Tour

Step directly into frontier military lore along the historic Smoky Hill Trail corridor. Linking legendary outposts like Fort Hays and Fort Wallace, this historic route retraces the paths cut by 1860s cavalry scouts, stagecoaches, and pioneer wagons.

Highway 18 Tour

Cruise one of Northwest Kansas’s most iconic east-west ribbons. Highway 18 takes travelers through a quintessential tapestry of historic limestone towns, rolling agricultural pastures, vibrant main streets, and classic roadside architecture.