Hiking Buffalo Track Canyon at Kanopolis State Park

A quiet summer morning among towering sandstone cliffs, prairie wildflowers, and one of Kansas' most scenic hikes.

Buffalo Track Canyon Trail at Kanopolis State Park

On an early morning in June, I found myself surrounded by lush prairie grass and rugged Dakota sandstone walls that seemed to create a natural cocoon. Shutting out the chaos of the modern world. The further I hiked the single-track trail, the denser the terrain became. Leaving me alone with my thoughts for company.

The trek along Buffalo Track Canyon Trail, at Kanopolis State Park, starts like many other trails—in a parking lot. At the trailhead on the north side of the park, the path heads in two directions. To the right is the 5.5-mile Horsethief Canyon trail, accessible to hikers, mountain bike riders, and equestrians. On the left is Buffalo Track Canyon trail, available only to hikers, with a distance of 1.5 miles (loop).

The sandy trail follows along Bison Creek, a natural stream named for its historical use as a water source for bison and other wildlife. The biggest hazard you might encounter, outside of giant spider webs, is that sections of the trail can become waterlogged and muddy. Along the trail, there are short shoots–secondary trails–that take hikers to scenic overlooks or secluded nooks.

As the single-track trail slips between tall grass and rocky walls, the rusty red Dakota Sandstone is a stark contrast to the landscape around it. Towering cliffs and caves have been scarred by time and weather. Not to mention decades, if not centuries, of human graffiti. Names, signs of devotion, and happy faces are all carved into the stone. (Please don't add to it.)

This morning, golden sunlight poured over the canyon walls, catching the rough texture of the sandstone while leaving the deeper recesses wrapped in cool indigo shadows. Wildflowers glowed along the trail. The prairie beyond shimmered in soft greens, reminding me that Kansas has never deserved its reputation as flat or empty.

At the start of the trail, I was all on my own. For a little while, it felt as though I had the canyon entirely to myself. The sounds of morning songbirds and leaves rustling in the wind provided a tranquil soundtrack that kept me at a leisurely pace. Often, I would stop to take in the sheer beauty of the land. To the furthest point and back, the trail is roughly a 1.5 miles. Perfect for stretching my legs. As the sun rose higher, the temps grew warmer. It was time to head back.

Returning to the car, I heard the soft snorts of horses. Looking across the creek, two horse riders came through a thicket of trees. They, too, were taking advantage of the cooler, though humid, morning.

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About Kanopolis State Park

Dedicated Memorial Day weekend in 1959, Kanopolis State Park is Kansas' first state park. Located in Ellsworth County, the park is part of the larger Kanopolis Lake reservoir area and is managed by Kansas Department of Wildlife & Parks. Either a day pass, or having a State Park Passport, is required.

The park offers seven different trails that over 30 miles in total. All trails are open for hiking, but some also allow horses and mountain biking. Other outdoor recreation opportunities include camping, boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing.

Trail Notes

LOCATION

Buffalo Track Canyon, Kanopolis State Park

DISTANCE

1.5 miles (loop)

TYPE OF TRAIL

Mixture of compacted dirt and sand

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Sunrise or the first few hours of the morning for cooler temperatures, softer light, and fewer hikers.

TRAIL HIGHLIGHTS

Sandstone cliffs, prairie overlooks, native wildflowers, shady canyon cut throughs, and some of the most unexpected scenery in Kansas.

DON'T FORGET

Plenty of water, sturdy hiking shoes, sunscreen, and a camera—you'll almost certainly wish you brought one. And bug spray, don't forget the bug spray.