State Adventure: Kansas

Adventure can be found anywhere; you just have to know where to search. The state of Kansas is known for its Great Plains, rolling wheat fields, and central location in the US. The geographically flat Midwestern state is not usually known for having the best outdoor adventures, but if you look hard enough, you can find outdoor recreation possibilities all over the sunflower state. Whether hiking, camping, wildlife watching, fishing, bike riding, or relaxing, Kansas has what you’re looking for. 

Mountain Biking at Clinton State Park

For being teased as a flat state, Clinton’s up and down bike trails may surprise you. Clinton Lake State Park is located just to the west of the Lawrence City limits and has many miles of maintained trails for all skills levels. One of the most challenging trails is the "North Shore Trail", which is a 25-mile single track trail exhibiting rocks, tree roots, creek crossings, rolling hills and mile markers. In general, the “white” trails are more difficult, while the “blue” trails are a little easier. The Clinton State Park trails are not just for riding bikes, this park is home to great hiking, wildlife watching, and photography opportunities as well.

Riding ATV’s at Syracuse Sand Dunes

On the western side of the wheat state and near the Colorado state border there is a bizarre area that some consider ATV paradise. Syracuse Sand Dunes Park is home to some 1,300 acres of riding fun along with a 40 acre stocked fishing pond. This park is the largest sand dunes site in Kansas and one of the biggest in the Midwest. The landscape is so different from the normal; it will make you feel as if you aren’t even in Kansas anymore. From ATV riding, to camping and fishing, the Syracuse Sand Dunes are packed with outdoor entertainment and are a perfect place to capture all of the adventure with your Garmin VIRB XE.

Monument Rocks National Natural Landmark

Kansas University doesn’t use the chant Rock Chalk Jayhawk just because it rhymes. Monument Rocks is an area with large chalk formations in Gove County, Kansas, which are rich with fossils. This location was one of the first National Natural Landmarks in US history. You won’t need to hike or ride your bike to this spot either. The nicknamed Chalk pyramids can be accessed on rural dirt roads just 25 miles south of Oakley, KS.  The Monument Rocks are a perfect spot to take in some of our geological history, hike around, relax, and take some really cool photos.

Kansas is full of outdoor exploits and we hope this inspires you to get outside and explore the next time you’re in the Sunflower State. Just remember that when you’re feeling the need for some crisp outdoor fresh air, the state of Kansas is full of possibilities for outdoor refreshment. Stay tuned for another state adventure series and don’t forget to share with us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and use #HaveNoLimits.

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