Backcountry Day Hiking Trails-

The backcountry hiking trails have reopened. 

Windmill pasture is now home to the preserve's 13 member bison herd.  Please do not attempt to pet or come in close contact with the bison.  These are wild animals and will charge or defend themselves when feeling threatened. 

Please keep a safe distance when hiking.

Visitors may experience the backcountry of the preserve through three backcountry hiking trails during daylight hours. No permit is required.

Trail maps are available at the ranger information desk. The information desk is located in the barn at the historic ranch headquarters during the summer months and on the back porch of the house during winter.

A short introductory training session is available before hiking into the backcountry during business hours (9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m). Visitors are encouraged to wear appropriate clothing and hiking gear, bring plenty of drinking water, use sunblock and insect repellent, and stay on the designated ranch roads and hiking trails. No smoking or pets are allowed in the backcountry.

All backcountry day hiking trails are moderately difficult and range from 3.8 to 6.4 miles. The Scenic Overlook Trail, the 3 Pasture Loop Trail, and the Red House Trail each offer visitors a different and unique perspective of the tallgrass prairie ecosystem. Scenic vistas, prairie grasses, wildflowers, wildlife, and rugged terrain may be experienced along the backcountry day hiking trails.

The preserve backcountry trails are listed as a year-round event in coordation with the American Volkssport Association. Learn More