Konza Prairie Trails
Konza Prairie's hiking trails wind through lowland gallery forest, cross Kings Creek, and climb over ancient limestone ledges into the native tallgrass prairie. At the highest points, enjoy spectacular views of the Flint Hills and the Kansas River Valley.
Enjoy a moderate walk with occasional steep climbs, uneven footing and narrow pathways. To protect the trail and hikers, the trail is occasionally closed during wet conditions or controlled burning.
There are 3 trails that all begin at the same place:
Nature Trail = 2.6 miles
Kings Creek Trail = 4.6 miles
Godwin Hill Trail = 6.2 miles
The trails are provided by K-State Division of Biology and Friends of Konza Prairie. Maintenance of the trails depends on voluntary user contributions.
A contribution of $2 is appreciated.
Rules:
No dogs allowed.
- No bikes allowed.
- Remain on designated roads and trails at all times.
- Collection or removal of flowers, rocks, feathers, or other materials from the conservation area is prohibited.
- Smoking, including inside buildings and vehicles, or any open flame is prohibited.
- Pack it in, pack it out. Disposal receptacles and picnic areas are not available on the trail.
- Horses are not permitted on-site.
- Camping or overnight parking is prohibited.
Be Aware:
- Konza Prairie's hiking trails begin at the parking area near the main entrance.
- The trails are open every day from dawn to dusk.
- Plan to spend a minimum of 2-hours for the 2.6 mile short trail - 3.5 hrs. for the middle trail - 4.5 hrs. for the long trail.
- Consider your ability level and preparedness, the length of your hike and the amount of time you have before the preserve closes.
- Bring your own water and snacks.
- The only trash cans are at the trail head and at the composting toilet (at the Hokanson Homestead - about 1/2 way on the short trail).
- There is only one composting restroom. Please read the instructions for use of this facility.
Trail Guides:
You may view or print our self-guided trail brochures.
- Nature Trail Loop (pdf format, 427 KB, prints 8½” x 14”)
Part of the trail system, our 2½-mile Nature Trail winds through lowland gallery forests, crosses Kings Creek, and climbs over ancient limestone ledges until it reaches upland tallgrass prairie, and at the highest point gives a spectacular view of the Flint Hills and the Kansas River Valley. Please allow minimum 2-hours to enjoy this 2.5-mile round trip hike.
Enjoy similar vistas as the Nature Trail, on the Kings Creek or Godwin Hill loops. - Kings Creek Loop (pdf format, 273 KB, prints 8½” x 11”)
Please allow minimum 3½-hours to enjoy this 4.4-mile round trip hike. - Godwin Hill Loop (no current trail guide)
Please allow minimum 4½-hours to enjoy this 6.0-mile round trip hike. - Hokanson Homestead (pdf format, 209 KB, prints 8½” x 11”)
Just off the Nature Trail is Hokanson Homestead, settled by Swedish immigrants in 1878. Situated near Kings Creek within the gallery forest, the homestead site features an original limestone barn and other foundations, as well as a wildlife observation lean-to and outdoor seating area. Discover man’s impact on the land as you hike a short trail around the homestead. Please allow an additional 1-hour to enjoy investigation of this site.
