Northwest Kansas is the place to unplug.
Discover the hidden gems and stories of the lifestyle of the high plains.
OFF THE
BEATEN PATH
Experience the best of the Northwest
Unexpected discoveries await those who venture.
UPLAND GAME & BIG GAME RECREATION
World-Class Hunting Across the High Plains
Northwest Kansas is widely recognized as a premier destination for upland bird and big game hunting. The region’s vast tracts of public Walk-In Hunting Access (WIHA) land, combined with native mixed-grass prairies and grain fields, create an ideal habitat for wild ringnecked pheasant, bobwhite quail, and prairie chickens. Whether you’re working the draws with hunting dogs at first light or tracking trophy mule deer and white-tails along river breaks, the high plains offer expansive, uncrowded terrain for every outdoorsman.
- Upland Game: Ringnecked Pheasant, Bobwhite Quail, Greater Prairie Chicken
- Big Game: Mule Deer, White-tailed Deer, Pronghorn Antelope
- Access: Over hundreds of thousands of acres enrolled in Kansas Walk-In Hunting Access (WIHA)
The Living Highway
HIGHWAYS & BYWAYS OF NORTHWEST KANSAS
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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.
Click map to enlarge & view full region
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
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
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.
Demo Only
Stretching K-27 through the far western edge of the state, this route features canyon drop-offs, sunflower fields, and a direct path to Mount Sunflower.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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Map Section
BIRTH OF THE HOME ON THE RANGE
The official state song of Kansas was written in a small cabin in Smith County by Dr. Brewster Higley. You can still visit the original cabin today.
AGRICULTURAL CORRIDOR
Land & Sky Scenic Byway
Experience the nation’s only designated agricultural byway. Winding through deep canyons, vast farmlands, and the rugged Arikaree Breaks, this route showcases high-plains farming heritage at its finest.
GEOLOGICAL WONDERS
Western Vistas Historic Byway
Journey through prehistoric sea beds and iconic chalk formations like Monument Rocks and Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park along Kansas's first historic byway.
PRAIRIE & RESERVOIRS
Smoky Valley Scenic Byway
Trace the rolling limestone bluffs and vast reservoir horizons between Trego and Ellis counties, offering sweeping sunset views and quiet backroad cruising.
ROADSIDE TRIVIA & HIGHWAY LORE
The Pioneer Trail System
Many modern state highways in Northwest Kansas follow the exact wagon ruts and hunting trails forged by Native American tribes and 19th-century military scouts.
Highest Elevation in Kansas
Heading west along Highway 27 brings you within range of Mount Sunflower (4,039 ft), the highest point in the state, located on private ranch land open to respectful travelers.
Dark Sky Corridors
Due to low light pollution across the open county roads, the highway stretches between Oberlin, St. Francis, and Sharon Springs offer some of the clearest stargazing paths in the Midwest.
NORTHWESTERN PRAIRIE
WALLACE COUNTY, KS
Because the curvature of the earth feels so pronounced on the flat plains, stargazers here can experience an unobstructed, 180-degree view of the horizon. This lack of tree lines and mountain peaks means you can watch constellations rise and set right at eye level, a rare phenomenon that makes you feel like you are standing on the edge of a spinning planet.
HIDDEN GEMS
Local Tip: Where Praire Meets Plate
Pair your road trip with authentic high-plains flavors—look out for seasonal farm stands, local honey outposts, and small-town bakeries along Highway 36 and Highway 83.
HIDDEN GEMS
Local Tip: Where Praire Meets Plate
Pair your road trip with authentic high-plains flavors—look out for seasonal farm stands, local honey outposts, and small-town bakeries along Highway 36 and Highway 83.
HIDDEN GEMS
Local Tip: Where Praire Meets Plate
Pair your road trip with authentic high-plains flavors—look out for seasonal farm stands, local honey outposts, and small-town bakeries along Highway 36 and Highway 83.
Curated Stops Along the Route
The journey is just as rewarding as the destination. From historic sheep ranches like Cottonwood Ranch in Sheridan County to quiet lakefront cabins at Wilson Lake, plan your trip around authentic high-plains hospitality.
- C2 Ranch & Outpost - Primitive stargazing and working ranch lodge north of Hays.
- Wahlmeier Farms Vineyard - Handcrafted sweet and dry wines nestled in rural Decatur County.
- Post Rock Limestone Cabins - Cozy lakeside retreats crafted from native stone at Wilson Lake.
Curated Stops Along the Route
The journey is just as rewarding as the destination. From historic sheep ranches like Cottonwood Ranch in Sheridan County to quiet lakefront cabins at Wilson Lake, plan your trip around authentic high-plains hospitality.
- C2 Ranch & Outpost - Primitive stargazing and working ranch lodge north of Hays.
- Wahlmeier Farms Vineyard - Handcrafted sweet and dry wines nestled in rural Decatur County.
- Post Rock Limestone Cabins - Cozy lakeside retreats crafted from native stone at Wilson Lake.
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.
Click map to enlarge & view full region
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
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
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.
AGRICULTURAL CORRIDOR
Land & Sky Scenic Byway
Experience the nation’s only designated agricultural byway. Winding through deep canyons, vast farmlands, and the rugged Arikaree Breaks, this route showcases high-plains farming heritage at its finest.
GEOLOGICAL WONDERS
Western Vistas Historic Byway
Journey through prehistoric sea beds and iconic chalk formations like Monument Rocks and Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park along Kansas's first historic byway.
PRAIRIE & RESERVOIRS
Smoky Valley Scenic Byway
Trace the rolling limestone bluffs and vast reservoir horizons between Trego and Ellis counties, offering sweeping sunset views and quiet backroad cruising.
ROADSIDE TRIVIA & HIGHWAY LORE
The Pioneer Trail System
Many modern state highways in Northwest Kansas follow the exact wagon ruts and hunting trails forged by Native American tribes and 19th-century military scouts.
Highest Elevation in Kansas
Heading west along Highway 27 brings you within range of Mount Sunflower (4,039 ft), the highest point in the state, located on private ranch land open to respectful travelers.
Dark Sky Corridors
Due to low light pollution across the open county roads, the highway stretches between Oberlin, St. Francis, and Sharon Springs offer some of the clearest stargazing paths in the Midwest.
ROADSIDE TRIVIA & HIGHWAY LORE
The Pioneer Trail System
Many modern state highways in Northwest Kansas follow the exact wagon ruts and hunting trails forged by Native American tribes and 19th-century military scouts.
Highest Elevation in Kansas
Heading west along Highway 27 brings you within range of Mount Sunflower (4,039 ft), the highest point in the state, located on private ranch land open to respectful travelers.
Dark Sky Corridors
Due to low light pollution across the open county roads, the highway stretches between Oberlin, St. Francis, and Sharon Springs offer some of the clearest stargazing paths in the Midwest.
AGRICULTURAL CORRIDOR
Land & Sky Scenic Byway
Experience the nation’s only designated agricultural byway. Winding through deep canyons, vast farmlands, and the rugged Arikaree Breaks, this route showcases high-plains farming heritage at its finest.
AGRICULTURAL CORRIDOR
Western Vistas Historic Byway
Journey through prehistoric sea beds and iconic chalk formations like Monument Rocks and Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park along Kansas's first historic byway.
GEOLOGICAL WONDERS
Western Vistas Historic Byway
Journey through prehistoric sea beds and iconic chalk formations like Monument Rocks and Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park along Kansas's first historic byway.
PRAIRIE & RESERVOIRS
Smoky Valley Scenic Byway
Trace the rolling limestone bluffs and vast reservoir horizons between Trego and Ellis counties, offering sweeping sunset views and quiet backroad cruising.
PRAIRIE INGENUITY & ART
Post Rock Scenic Byway
Winding 18 miles along Highway 232 through the Smoky Hills, this route showcases iconic hand-carved limestone fenceposts, sandstone bluffs over Wilson Lake, and the quirky folk art hub of Lucas.
What Our Visitors Say
Real stories from explorers just like you!
Ready to Hit the Open Road?
Download digital route maps, check seasonal road conditions, or request a physical copy of the Ultimate Guide delivered to your doorstep.
GET THE GUIDE
Get the scoop on the latest, and the oldest places that make us who we are.
We packed this edition of the guide with new maps, curious facts, and stories that drive new experiences. You can find a copy of the printed guide at several gas stations and travels centers throughout the area, or click the link below to view our digital version.
View the Ultimate Guide Planning your next trip?
The Ultimate Guide can help!
We packed this edition of the guide with new maps, curious facts, and stories that drive new experiences. You can find a copy of the printed guide at several gas stations and travels centers throughout the area, or click the link below to view our digital version.
View the Ultimate Guide
Discover Northwest Kansas
Northwest Kansas is a hidden gem, rich in history and natural beauty. Known for its vast prairies and welcoming communities, this region offers a blend of outdoor adventures and local culture. From the scenic landscapes to charming small towns, there's much to explore. Take a trip through time as you visit historical landmarks, or enjoy the tranquility of nature at pristine parks. This area invites you to immerse yourself in its unique stories and vibrant spirit. Come learn about what makes Northwest Kansas special!
Unique Landmarks
Experience the rich heritage of our region with visits to stunning landmarks that reflect our local culture. Each site tells a story waiting to be discovered, offering a glimpse into our past.
Outdoor Adventures Awaits
Whether you love hiking, birdwatching, or just enjoying the great outdoors, Northwest Kansas is your playground. Discover breathtaking views and peaceful moments on your next adventure.
Ditch the Ordinary
We packed this edition of the guide with new maps, curious facts, and stories that drive new experiences. You can find a copy of the printed guide at several gas stations and travels centers throughout the area, or click the link below to view our digital version.
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