Recognized as one of the 8 Wonders of Kansas Geography, this tiny park offers big views, unusual formations, and a quick but memorable stop in the Smoky Hills.

Just off I-70 in western Kansas, before the sun ever touches the horizon, the prairie comes alive in ways most travelers never see. What looks like an endless stretch of grass holds one of the last strongholds for the Lesser Prairie Chicken—and a rare glimpse into a landscape that is as vital as it is overlooked. From the quiet hum of anticipation in the dark to the sudden burst of life at dawn, this is a story about discovering the beauty, importance, and hidden energy of Ka

“What’s on fire?” In the Flint Hills, spring burns aren’t destruction—they’re renewal, clearing invasive species and strengthening the prairie for new growth.

Spring has sprung across Kansas, and with it comes new life—including a new arrival at Rolling Hills Zoo in Salina. Creed the rhino was born February 8 to mother Evey and father Kengele and is already growing fast. Though not yet visible to the public, Ask a Kansan was able to visit and capture photos and video of the youngster. Creed has already gained national attention after being named after Kansas City Chiefs center Creed Humphrey, who recently visited the zoo to meet hi

Beneath Main Street in Ellinwood, Kansas lies a hidden underground once used by Santa Fe Trail teamsters and railroad workers. Today, visitors can explore the tunnels and step into a unique piece of Kansas history.

As a mom, I’m constantly searching for hikes to take my toddler on, places where they can explore, set the pace, and feel like they’re on an adventure — without me stressing the entire time.

Winter in Kansas can be brutal, and most people wouldn’t consider it a good season to be outdoors, let alone hiking. However, those who take advantage of a warm afternoon, or are just a little off their rocker and brave the elements enjoy several benefits unique to winter hiking. The first is solitude. Don’t get me wrong a busy state park and the hum of boats on the water are great, but we can enjoy that in the warmer months. There’s something special about being the only one

On the edge of Concordia, Kansas, the National Orphan Train Complex preserves the story of children sent west during the Orphan Train Movement from 1854–1929. As the nation’s only museum dedicated to this history, it shares the artifacts and personal stories of the riders whose journeys helped shape Kansas and America.

Hikers across Kansas kicked off the new year with First Day Hikes at 24 Kansas State Parks. This year’s hike at Glen Elder State Park offered a fog-filled, three-mile walk through nature and a chance to reflect on the area’s deep history, including the sacred site of Waconda.

Quivira National Wildlife Refuge, a key stop along the Central Flyway, shelters hundreds of thousands of migratory birds each year. Among them, the endangered Whooping Crane finds safety in the refuge’s rare inland salt marsh. A family of cranes, including a juvenile, was spotted before taking flight over the Kansas horizon—a striking reminder of Quivira’s vital role in protecting these majestic birds.

In 1867, the Peace Treaty between the U.S. government and Plains tribes was signed along Medicine Lodge Creek. Today, the legacy lives on through the Peace Treaty Festival each September. Highlights include the Intertribal Powwow at Memorial Peace Park, where traditions like the Gourd Dance are shared—keeping culture alive while honoring the past.

Maxwell Wildlife Refuge hosted its 10th annual Mountain Man Rendezvous. From trappers to flintknappers, 1,300 visitors—including 350 students—experienced life on the 1800s prairie.

For over 50 years, this little northwest Kansas town has run its own carnival — rides, games, and that quirky “four smalls for a medium, four mediums for a large” prize swap that leaves grandpa buried in stuffed animals by the end of the night. It’s all powered by volunteers who check every ride, run the games, and make sure nothing sits idle when the gates swing open. And when they do? Generations of families return, proud to be part of a tradition that makes Oberlin feel l

The 45th Annual Leadsled Spectacular , hosted by Kustom Kemps of America (KKOA) , rolled into Salina the weekend of July 24–27 and...

Kansas isn’t flat or dull—its rolling Flint Hills, earthy tones, and scenic backroads offer breathtaking beauty year-round.