Coronado Heights: steeped in history and horizons
Coronado Heights near Lindsborg, Kansas
It’s thought that Coronado, a conquistador, climbed this 300-foot butte around 1540. Regardless, you can scale it today.
Trail Coronado Heights trail system
Overview
Coronado Heights is a gem of backroads Kansas. And that’s part of its appeal. The 300-foot-tall butte rises above the plains near Lindsborg. On a clear day, you can see for miles. Several trail loops ring the cedar groves at the top of the hill and wind down around its base. If that were all, Coronado Heights would be worth visiting. But there’s legend as well. Spanish Conquistador Francisco Coronado came through the area in about 1540, searching for cities of gold. It’s theorized that he spent some time on Coronado Heights, surveying the area. Beyond legend, there’s hard evidence the Spaniards were here: Chain mail from their armor, coins and explorers’ gear have been found in the area.
Statue of a conquistador (not located at Coronado Heights).
Coronado did not build the monument at the top of the butte. It’s actually a picnic shelter built by another icon, President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1936 (well not him, but his Works Progress Administration). Coronado went on to become the first European to see the Grand Canyon. But after finding no gold in Kansas, he threw up his hands and headed south to Mexico.
Coronado Heights is a must-see if you’re in central Kansas (Salina is the closest large town). It’s not a standalone destination however, more like a place to spend a half day. The good news is it’s close to several premiere Kansas hiking attractions: Kanopolis State Park and Mushroom Rock State Park. If you need a place to eat or want to shop, Lindsborg is a uniquely Swedish town famous for its artistic Dala horse creations.
Drive Time Coronado Heights is three hours from Downtown Kansas City.
Length There are about 2 miles of trails; if you wish to walk more you can backtrack some of the loops. There are also extensive hiking opportunities at Kanopolis State Park.
Address and location Coronado Heights Park, Smoky View, Kan., 67442.
Conditions The trails are natural surface and easy to find and follow, though they are largely unmarked. They are slippery after rain or snow. There are moderate elevation changes.
Kid friendly? Kids will need to be able to walk on their own.
How busy? On holidays and during warm weather, this trail gets moderate traffic. If you want a less-trafficked experience, visit on a weekday or in the offseason.
Pets Yes, on a leash.
Bikes Yes
