Backcountry Day Hiking Trails- By free permit
Open daily from 9 a.m.- 3:30 p.m. May - October
Open weekends from 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. from November - April

Visitors may experience the backcountry of the preserve through three new backcountry day hiking trails. During the main tour season (May through October) visitors may hike daily from 9 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. Permits are required and may be picked up in person at the preserve the day of your visit. You may also reserve a permit up to 4 weeks in advance by calling the preserve at 620-273-8494. There is no charge for the permit.

Visitors must pick up their permits and a trail map in person at the visitor information desk before entering the backcountry. 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 will be given to each individual or group before hiking into the backcountry. 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.

Winter Backcountry Day Hiking Program Hours - From November through April, visitors may continue to hike the three backcountry day hiking trails on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Free hiking permits and maps must be picked up on the back porch of the ranch house during the off-season. Backcountry day hiking will be canceled during times of adverse weather conditions and controlled burns in the spring.

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 new backcountry day hiking trails.

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