In 2022, we set out on an unforgettable journey across Kansas on the annual Bike Across Kansas ride, starting in the small town of Coolidge, Kansas. After the 2020 and 2021 rides were canceled due to COVID, this year’s event was especially exciting—a long-awaited chance to hit the open roads again. From the very first pedal stroke, the wide-open roads, quirky small-town landmarks, and endless sky set the tone for an adventure unlike any other. Along the way, we stopped at Cousin Eddie’s, an iconic local spot with a billboard that perfectly captures the character of western Kansas, and even found a classic phone booth to snap a picture with our bikes. We visited Cousin Eddie’s house, adding a personal touch to the journey, and shared moments that connected us with the heart of the state. After pedaling through countless miles of rolling farmland and charming towns, our ride ended in Louisburg, Kansas, giving us the chance to celebrate at the geographical center of the contiguous United States, a milestone that marked the perfect end to an epic adventure.
Exploring Coolidge, Kansas” or “Coolidge, Kansas: Landmarks & Fun Stops
We’re starting our Bike Across Kansas here in Coolidge, Kansas, on Friday, June 10, 2022! With Rob by my side, ShauneNation and ShawneeNation are kicking off this summer ride with excitement and energy. This is where the journey begins, and we’ll be sharing every stop, landmark, and moment along the way.
Riding Through Dodge City: Heat, River, and the Tough 11-Mile Stretch
Riding into Dodge City, we faced an incredibly hot day. Crossing the Arkansas River just south of town, we were shocked to see it completely dry—no water at all. Everyone was exhausted from the heat, but the sight of Dodge City brought some excitement. I decided to ride through historical downtown to check out the local attractions before heading toward Spearville, Kansas, where we were staying. On the way, there was an 11-mile stretch that proved challenging for many riders. I rode with a fellow cyclist who had stopped and fallen over from exhaustion and lack of water. Thankfully, I had a 100-ounce backpack, and we were able to get him hydrated and ride that stretch together, supporting each other the entire way. Little did we know that in 2023, we would experience the same issues riding through Dodge City on another hot day.
Reaching the Geographical Center of the Contiguous United States
To visit the Geographical Center of the Contiguous United States near Lebanon, Kansas, we had to divert slightly from our official Bike Across Kansas route. Standing at this symbolic heart of the country was an amazing experience, marking the midpoint of our Kansas adventure. We took some photos, enjoyed the quiet Kansas landscape, and shared the moment as part of our ShauneNation and ShawneeNation journey.
Rolling Through Kansas: Rantoul and Beyond
As we pedaled through Rantoul, Kansas, we couldn’t help but notice the impressive display at Dodson International Parts — a Lockheed JetStar mounted on a pole, signaling the vast aircraft salvage yard below. This wasn’t a planned stop, but the sight added an unexpected highlight to our journey. Continuing east, we approached Paola, Kansas, where a challenging six-mile stretch awaited us. The hills were steep, and the heat was intense, making it one of the toughest segments of our Bike Across Kansas experience, just before reaching Louisburg.
A Kansas Sunrise on the Final Day
The final day of Bike Across Kansas greeted us with a beautiful sunrise over the cornfields. The light breaking across the horizon was both peaceful and motivating, a reminder that while the road ahead would be tough, the finish line was within reach.
Crossing into Missouri – Completing Bike Across Kansas and the Continental Divide Journey
After days of steady riding, from Coolidge on the western edge of Kansas to Louisburg near the Missouri border, the Bike Across Kansas journey comes to an end. Standing with Rob at the Missouri state line sign, we mark the completion of hundreds of miles across the heartland. This ride wasn’t just about crossing Kansas—it was about experiencing the vast plains, the rolling hills, the small towns, and the shared drive that carried us forward. From the Continental Divide to the Missouri state line, this journey proved that persistence, partnership, and passion make the miles unforgettable.
Explore more fascinating geographical landmarks across the United States at Confluence.org