3 Best Hiking Trails in Wichita, KS

“Pawnee Prairie Park spans 624.49 acres along the Cowskin Stream, with properties acquired during the 1960s and 1970s, encompassing various plant species and habitats. The total length of the trail is 2.2 miles. The elevation gain of the trail is 42 feet. The trail is an out-and-b, and the time taken to complete the total trail is approximately 40 mins. The park has been recognized as a Wichita Wild Nature area and is the most extensive Wichita Park system. Amenities include a five-mile trail consisting of three connected loops and several unmarked tracks. The park spans one and a half miles in length and one and a half miles in width, following the course of Cowskin Creek. The park features approximately 9 miles of natural trails and a designated 4.75-mile loop trail starting at the Pawnee. The path is mainly used for bird watching between March and April. Pawnee Prairie Park features walking, biking, horseback riding, and picnic areas. Most trails follow the river, and many wildflowers are on either side. The restrooms and a map are available at the park entrance.”

Read more

“Great Plains Nature Center is a cooperative project between the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. This nature center offers opportunities for the general public to learn about reserves, including biodiversity and plant species. There are 3,500 square feet of exhibits dedicated to the original prairie, landscape, immersive, hands-on training, lakes, forests, rivers, riparian habitats, and woodland. The park has 21/2 miles of paved paths crossing native and reclaimed prairies. The indoor wildlife observatory helps tourists to unwind in front of a cattail-ringed wetland lake. All the trails are open to disabled people. The park includes an immersive museum and 2.7 miles of paths. The indoor and outdoor facilities are designed to educate about the flora and fauna of the Great Plains. The volunteers in the nature center building do good work promoting wildlife preservation and providing nature education.”

Read more

“Swanson Park Trailhead is 93 acres and has been designed by Wichita Wild Habitat. The elevation gain of the trail is 288 feet. The Land and Water Conservation Funds provided by the Wildlife & Parks Department of Kansas and the National Park Service established the park. Visitors can experience the 1.33-mile paved hiking trail. The trails are paved, and the more adventurous the opportunity to discover tracks. Thirty-two stalls will guide you off Maize Road for the parking. Swanson Park allows dogs, but they must always be on leashes. The sidewalks of Swanson Park are all very well maintained, and there are benches along the trail. The park also provides historical information about the parks.”

Read more