30-180 MinutesNo fees.
Bison viewing on the Scenic Overlook Trail
Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve
Walk along the gravel trail into the unplowed Flint Hills. Here an array of prairie wildlife make their home. The trail winds uphill through Windmill Pasture where a bison herd grazes. It continues to a hilltop on the far side. Several trail options allow extended backcountry hikes or alternate routes when bison block the path. The visitor center to the overlook is just over 3 miles (5 km) one-way.
The Kansas Flint Hills are one of the last stretches of unplowed prairie. Here an array of wildlife thrive in a diverse ecology. Crossing the breadth of this vast landscape on foot or by covered wagon in the early 1800s becomes surreal. Dark bison speckling miles on the horizon. Birds and critters dash away as you make your way through open rolling grassland. Over 40 miles of hiking trails are available on the preserve. Learn more about backcountry hiking at the preserve.
Tags
Wildlife WatchingAnimalsBirdsBisonFoothills, Plains and ValleysGeologyGrasslandsPrairiesNatural SoundsScenic ViewsTrailsUnique SpeciesWestward Expansionprairie and ecologyPrairiebisonBison Conservationtrailhikeoverlookscenicbackcountry hikewildlife hikeWildlife ViewingTallgrass Prairie National Preserve
Visitor Photos
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Details
Duration
30-180 Minutes
Duration Details
Windmill Pasture is half a mile uphill from the visitor center. Occasionally bison will rest near the gate, deterring hikers from entering. Hikers can turn back or use an alternate trail to the scenic overlook. The round trip along the Davis Trail is 7 1/2 miles. Plan for an additional hour when going into the bison pasture. Bison have wandered onto the trail, blocking the exit. Be prepared to wait or detour off-trail.
Fees
No fees.
Fees Apply
No
Seasons
Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
Time of Day
Day, Night, Dawn, Dusk
Accessibility
The coarse gravel trail is approximately 12 feet wide with grassy margins. Average grade is 2% (1 degree) with a max of 6% (3 degrees) along the first half mile. Rain may cause standing water and muddy conditions at water crossings for several hours. All personal animals are prohibited, including service animals.
Pets
No — The Scenic Overlook Trail and backcountry are wildlife areas. All personal animals are prohibited, including service animals.
Reservations
No — Reservations are required for the summer bus tours.