Kaw Nation Memorial explores the Flint Hills’ rugged past
Kaw National Memorial near Council Grove in the Kansas Flint Hills.
A 2-mile loop rises to prairie ridgetops, then follows a pristine Flint Hills creek. History is in every step.
Trail Kaw Nation Memorial Trail
Overview
When you walk the Flint Hills trail at the Kaw Nation Memorial, you’re stepping back in time. This stunning area was home to Kaw (Kanza) Native Americans from about 1840-1872. The state of Kansas is derived from the name of this nation.
Like much of Native Americans experience with European settlers, the story is tragic. Yet the memorial was initiated by the Kaw Nation itself. The effort was supported with funds from the National Park Service, Kansas Historical Society and the state of Kansas. So while there is a sober-minded component of the monument, it’s also an opportunity to gain appreciation for Kaw culture and history while experiencing the stunning Flint Hills landscape they once called home.
The memorial and trail are centered on a 35-foot-tall limestone burial monument for an unknown Kaw warrior. His remains were found when the erosive forces of a nearby stream brought them to light long after the Kaw had left the area. The monument was built in 1925 by citizens of nearby Council Grove as a tribute to the warrior and the Kaw Nation. (The trail does not intersect with the monument; the Kaw Nation asks that it be observed from a distance.)
This scenic 168-acre area was the site of a forced relocation village. It is the last Kaw community in Kansas to be forcibly relocated to Oklahoma, which occurred in 1873.
This area, which is also known as Allegawaho Heritage Memorial Park, includes the remains of several government-built homes which were erected for the Kaw. Ironically, the Kaw rejected them, viewing them as an intrusion of American-European values. Instead, they used them for livestock and lived communally, as was their custom.
The memorial is five miles from Council Grove, Kansas. The Flint Hills Trail, which is 117 miles long and begins in Osawatomie, passes through the park and ends in Council Grove.
Drive Time The Kaw Nation Memorial is just under two hours from Downtown Kansas City.
Length Two mile loop.
Address and location
This location is referred to by several names: Kaw Nations Memorial, Kaw Indian Memorial and Allegawaho Memorial Heritage Park. They are all the same location. The address is:
S. 525 Rd, Council Grove, KS 66846 (Note: Some gravel road travel is required, but no special vehicle is needed).
Conditions This is a mowed and well-maintained trail. There is an elevation gain of about 150 feet. Wear insect repellant in season. Most of the trail is not shaded, so sun and heat will impact your walk.
Kid friendly? This is a trail for hearty kids who can walk on their own.
How busy? This area receives few visitors except on special historical occasions.
Pets Yes, on a leash, unless stated otherwise..
Nearby attractions
Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve is about 20 minutes south.
The historic town of Council Grove is home to a river walk and historical sites.
