It’s nature in the raw at Flint Hills Tallgrass Prairie Preserve
The Nature Conservancy opened this refuge, near Cassoday, Kansas, to the public in 2023.
Trail Flint Hills Tallgrass Prairie Preserve
Overview
It would be easy to confuse this nature preserve with the similar sounding Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve near Strong City, Kan. While that preserve is run by the National Park Service, this location is entirely in private hands. More than 2,000 acres, east of the small town of Cassoday, are open to the public, courtesy of The Nature Conservancy. If you’re looking for even more solitude than the Flint Hills normally provide, this is for you. It’s a less-trafficked area than Konza Prairie or the national park. A central feature of this property is the crystalline South Fork of the Cottonwood River. It traverses the low point of the property, shrouded in tall Cottonwood trees. This is a prime place for viewing wildflowers and wildlife. Be mindful of sun and temperature as there is little shade or protection from wind on most of the trails.
The difference between this area of the Flint Hills and the other two parks cited above? These hills are more low lying. Although scenic and rolling, you won’t encounter as many steep grades and plunging ravines as elsewhere in the Flint Hills. That also makes for a more moderate physical challenge, giving you plenty of opportunities to catch your breath.
Length There are about six miles of trails throughout the refuge.
Address and location 16999 NE 150th St, Cassoday, KS 66842.
Distance A takes a little more than two hours to reach this park from Downtown Kansas City. The last few miles take you on a gravel road. There is a small parking area that is well marked.
Conditions Understand that this is not a national or state park. It is a private nature preserve open to the public. Trails are natural surface, which means they can be muddy. These are mowed paths, which means the grass may be higher than you would anticipate. Grass will likely be rubbing your calves or pant legs, so insect repellent is appropriate. While trails are easy to see and follow in the upland areas, they seem to disappear in lowland river crossings. If you are keen on hiking all the trails, you will likely have at least one moment when you aren’t sure where to go next. In wet seasons, your feet will get wet crossing the South Fork Cottonwood River (crossings are not deep, but soggy toes are inevitable).
Kid friendly? Trails are natural surface and not conducive to strollers. However, trails are no more than moderate in difficulty and should be suitable for children who like to walk. The streams are beautiful and a great place for kids to play.
How busy? This park is remote and lightly trafficked – but don’t be surprised to see others there, especially on a beautiful day.
Pets Yes, on a leash.
Bikes Prohibited
Nearby attractions
