A Scenic Kansas Treasure Earns National Recognition
Kansas’ beloved Flint Hills Trail State Park has earned a prestigious nod as a 2025 Rails-to-Trails Hall of Fame nominee, joining the ranks of other celebrated trails that have shaped outdoor recreation across the country. With over 80% of the public vote in its favor, this 118-mile corridor from Osawatomie to Herington is recognized not only for its breathtaking tallgrass prairie vistas and rich natural beauty but also for connecting vibrant communities like Ottawa, Pomona, and Council Grove. Following in the footsteps of past inductees such as the Prairie Spirit Trail State Park, the Flint Hills Trail stands out as a true gem of Kansas trail heritage—a place where history, recreation, and community converge. This nomination is more than recognition; it’s a celebration of the volunteers, visionaries, and everyday adventurers who make this trail extraordinary.
History of the Flint Hills Trail: From Rails to Recreation
The Flint Hills Trail in Kansas traces its roots back to the late 1800s, when the corridor was first laid as the Council Grove, Osage City, and Ottawa Railroad. Eventually acquired by the Missouri Pacific Railroad, the line carried passengers and freight through towns like Osawatomie, Ottawa, Pomona, Osage City, and Council Grove. By the 1980s, passenger service had declined and the line ceased operations entirely in 1995. Rather than disappearing, the corridor was railbanked and transferred to the Kanza Rail-Trails Conservancy (KRTC). Volunteers, led by Doug Walker and his wife, began developing the trail in 2001, transforming the former railroad into a scenic recreational path. Over the years, the trail has grown to connect communities from Osawatomie to Herington, offering hiking, cycling, and horseback riding through rolling tallgrass prairie, river valleys, and wooded bluffs. In 2018, the Kansas Legislature officially designated it a state park, and by 2020, it earned National Recreation Trail status. Today, the Flint Hills Trail stands as a celebrated corridor of Kansas heritage, earning a 2025 Hall of Fame nomination and continuing to welcome outdoor enthusiasts from across the region.
Walker Station – Honoring Doug Walker
Walker Station at Mile Zero in Osawatomie stands as a testament to Doug Walker’s unwavering dedication to the Flint Hills Trail. As a former teacher, city council member, and Kansas State Senator, Walker played a pivotal role in transforming a 117-mile abandoned rail corridor into a vibrant recreational trail. His leadership with the Kanza Rail-Trails Conservancy, formed in 1995, was instrumental in overcoming legal and community challenges to bring the trail to fruition. In recognition of his efforts, the trailhead was officially named Walker Station during a ribbon-cutting ceremony in October 2021, attended by Governor Laura Kelly, celebrating Walker’s lasting impact on the community and the trail system.
The trail’s continued success is also thanks to supporters like Owen Harbison, Jeff & Sara Dorsett, Jeff Carroll, and many other community members who have helped maintain, improve, and celebrate the trail for everyone to enjoy.
If you want, I can also tighten it slightly so it reads perfectly under a photo while keeping Doug’s story big and the acknowledgment subtle. Do you want me to do that?
Flint Hills Trail: Length, Towns, and Construction
The Flint Hills Trail stretches 118 miles across eastern Kansas, beginning at Mile Zero in Osawatomie and ending in Herington. Along the way, it passes through or near several charming towns, including Rantoul, Ottawa, Pomona, Vassar, Osage City, Miller, Admire, Allen, Bushong, and Council Grove, connecting communities while showcasing the scenic beauty of the Flint Hills region.
Originally built in the late 1800s as the Council Grove, Osage City, and Ottawa Railroad, the line was later acquired by the Missouri Pacific Railroad and served both passenger and freight trains for nearly a century. After rail operations ceased in 1995, the corridor was railbanked and transferred to the Kanza Rail-Trails Conservancy (KRTC). Volunteers, led by Doug Walker and his wife, began developing the trail in 2001, transforming the old rail bed into a recreational corridor. Over the years, sections of the trail were upgraded with new surfacing, bridges, and safety improvements, including a bridge near Ottawa that eliminated a long detour and several upgraded stretches between Vassar and Osage County. Today, the trail offers a continuous route for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, connecting scenic landscapes and historic towns from east to west.
Flint Hills Trail & Prairie Spirit Trail: Key Landmarks and Connections
The Flint Hills Trail stretches westward across Kansas, passing through scenic tallgrass prairies, rolling foothills, and vibrant communities. Mile Zero / Osawatomie Trailhead marks the eastern starting point of this 118-mile trail, which moves west through towns like Rantoul, Ottawa, Pomona, Vassar, Osage City, Miller, Admire, Allen, Bushong, and Council Grove. Travelers encounter rolling Flint Hills foothills west of Council Grove and can access BaseCamp Flint Hills near Allen, Kansas—a hub for multi-day trail adventures. Located at 204 W. 2nd Street, Allen, KS 66833, BaseCamp Flint Hills offers camping in the scenic Flint Hills of Kansas. BFH is 20 miles north of the world capital of gravel cycling, Emporia, KS, and 20 miles east of historical Council Grove.
From Ottawa, the Prairie Spirit Trail heads south toward Iola, creating a major junction where it intersects with the Flint Hills Trail at the historic Ottawa Depot. Along this route, the trail passes through towns like Princeton, Richmond, Garnett, Welda, Colony, and Carlyle, covering over 50 miles of connected trail. Cyclists have excellent local support: Ottawa Bike and Trail at 130 South Main Street, Ottawa, Kansas, offers rentals, repairs, guided tours, and e-bike service, while Southwind Cycle and Outdoor at 17 E. Madison Ave, Iola, Kansas, provides expert repairs, sales, and accessories. From Iola, the Southwind Rail Trail continues south to BaseCamp Humboldt, offering a convenient trailhead and campground for hikers, cyclists, and equestrians. During the warmer months, riders can join the popular Tuesday night Dairy Queen group ride, traveling from Humboldt to Iola and back—a fun outing with a tasty reward at the finish.
Legacy Square Pavilion – Located at 125 S. Walnut, Ottawa, KS, hosting the Wednesday Farmers Market from 4 PM to 6 PM.
New Bridge over BNSF (V&SF) Railway – About two miles west of Ottawa, safely crossing the BNSF Double Main Line.
Landon Trail (Connecting from Topeka) – 38 miles from the Shunga Trail to Pomona Lake and Clinton Wildlife Area; will connect to the Flint Hills Trail near Quenemo.
BaseCamp Flint Hills (Allen, Kansas) – A premier trail hub along the Flint Hills Trail, offering camping, restrooms, gear storage, and easy access for hikers, cyclists, and equestrians. BaseCamp also provides a gathering point for multi-day trips and features local trail information, maps, and helpful staff to assist visitors.
Southwind Rail Trail (Humboldt Kansas)
Bike Shop supporting the trail
New Pedestrian Bridge Over BNSF Double Main Line Enhances Trail Safety
In May 2025, a significant upgrade to the Flint Hills Trail was completed with the opening of a 2.3-mile segment west of Ottawa, Kansas. This section includes a new 10-foot-wide multi-use trail surface and a pedestrian bridge that spans the BNSF Railway’s double main line. Prior to this development, trail users were required to detour approximately 3.4 miles on local roads to cross the tracks safely. The addition of this bridge not only improves safety by providing a direct crossing but also enhances the overall trail experience, contributing to the continuous 93-mile stretch of the Flint Hills Trail from Osawatomie to Council Grove. This project was made possible through a Transportation Alternatives Program grant administered by the Kansas Department of Transportation.
🚴♂️ Connecting the Landon Trail to the Flint Hills Trail
The Landon Trail, a scenic 38-mile corridor following the former Missouri-Pacific Railroad, stretches south from Topeka’s Shunga Trail to the Clinton Wildlife Area near Pomona Lake. The trail winds through oak-hickory forests and along Camp Creek, offering a peaceful route for cyclists, hikers, and equestrians. About 21 miles are currently open, with smooth concrete in Topeka and crushed limestone in rural areas.
Eventually, the Landon Trail will connect with the Flint Hills Trail near Quenemo, following the Clinton Trail corridor. This junction will form an important link in Kansas’s growing trail network. The Flint Hills Trail, stretching 118 miles from Osawatomie to Herington, passes through tallgrass prairies, historic sites, and vibrant communities.
While the full connection is still in progress, the existing segments already provide a significant recreational resource, and the completed network will create over 240 miles of continuous trail across the state.
Flint Hills Trail & Railroads in Osage City
Osage City’s section of the Flint Hills Trail offers a journey through Kansas’s tallgrass prairie and rich railroad heritage. The trail follows the corridor of the former Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway, passing historic railbeds, depot remnants, and even active crossings that remind riders of the town’s railroading past. Visitors can enjoy both scenic cycling and a peek into history, with the 1911 Santa Fe Railroad Depot, now a museum, standing as a testament to Osage City’s rail legacy. Cyclists and hikers navigate a mix of crushed limestone and gravel, with opportunities to stop in town for local shops and eateries, making this segment both a recreational and historical experience.
🍽️ Local Flavor: Flint Hills Catering
For visitors exploring Osage City and the Flint Hills Trail, Flint Hills Catering, led by Chef C.J. Adkins, adds a delicious local touch. Chef Adkins brings gourmet flavors directly to the community through both catering and a mobile food truck. Known for signature dishes and thoughtful menus, his offerings have become a popular stop for both events and trail-goers looking to refuel.
Whether you’re cycling along the trail or visiting downtown, Chef Adkins and Flint Hills Catering provide a taste of local hospitality, showcasing the flavor and creativity of the Flint Hills region. Their commitment to quality and service has made them a favorite among residents and visitors alike.
Connect with Chef C.J. Adkins and Flint Hills Catering:
Website: flint-hills-catering.square.site
Instagram: @flinthillscatering
Facebook: Flint Hills Catering
🏕️ Basecamp Flint Hills: A Cyclist’s Oasis in the Heart of the Flint Hills
Nestled in the tranquil town of Allen, Kansas, Basecamp Flint Hills (BFH) offers a harmonious blend of rustic charm and modern amenities, making it a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts, especially cyclists.
📍 Location & Contact Information
Address: 204 W 2nd Street, Allen, Kansas 66833
Phone: (620) 741-7886
Email: basecampflinthills@gmail.com
Website: basecampflinthills.com
Facebook: Basecamp Flint Hills
Instagram: @basecampflinthills
🏕️ Accommodations & Amenities
BFH provides a variety of camping options to suit different preferences:
Tent Camping: Shaded acreage with hammock trees, communal picnic tables, and fire rings.
Sleep Shack: A no-frills bunkhouse offering basic shelter.
Camper Sites: Two back-in sites equipped with water and electric hookups for RVs.
Seasonal facilities include an open-air cold-water shower and port-a-potty, available from April through October.
🚴 Ideal for Cyclists & Outdoor Enthusiasts
Located directly on the Flint Hills Trail State Park, BFH is a prime location for:
Gravel Cycling: Explore the renowned Flint Hills region, known for its expansive prairies and challenging terrains.
Hiking: Enjoy scenic walks along the trail, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the area.
Community Events: Participate in local gatherings and events that celebrate the outdoors and community spirit.
🌌 Stargazing & Natural Beauty
Visitors often praise BFH for its serene environment and excellent stargazing opportunities. The clear, dark skies offer a perfect setting for observing celestial events, making it a favorite spot for nature lovers and photographers.
🚴 Continuing West: Flint Hills Trail to Council Grove
After leaving Allen and Basecamp Flint Hills, the trail heads west for roughly 6 miles, rolling through the iconic Flint Hills prairie. The landscape gradually opens from gentle hills into flatter expanses, offering long, scenic stretches perfect for cycling, walking, or just taking in the vast Kansas skies.
This section of the trail highlights both the natural beauty and the quiet solitude that make the Flint Hills so special. As you approach Council Grove, you enter a historically significant area where the trail currently ends, giving a sense of both achievement and anticipation for future trail extensions.
Highlights Along the Way
Tallgrass Views: Miles of native prairie grasses and wildflowers.
Trail Surface: Mostly crushed limestone, smooth for cyclists and hikers alike.
Historic Crossings: Occasional remnants of old rail infrastructure remind visitors of the trail’s railroad origins.
Reaching Council Grove feels like both a destination and a waypoint, as it marks the current terminus of the Flint Hills Trail while hinting at more adventures to come as the trail continues to expand.
🏁 Trail’s Current End: Council Grove & Beyond
Arriving at Council Grove, cyclists and hikers are greeted by a town rich in history and charm. As the current terminus of the Flint Hills Trail, it’s a place to pause, celebrate the journey, and enjoy the surrounding scenery. Historic landmarks, local shops, and eateries make it an inviting spot to rest before heading back or planning future adventures.
While the trail ends here for now, the Flint Hills Trail continues to grow, promising more miles of scenic prairie, historic sites, and recreational opportunities in the years ahead. Recent improvements have extended the trail to Ottawa, creating a continuous 93-mile route from Osawatomie to Council Grove.
Looking further ahead, the trail is planned to stretch 118 miles, connecting Osawatomie to Herington, and potentially linking to other major trails like the Prairie Spirit Trail and Katy Trail in Missouri.
Whether you’re out for a day ride, a weekend trip, or just exploring a piece of Kansas history, Council Grove and the Flint Hills Trail together create a memorable experience that blends nature, adventure, and community.
