Manhattan, KS offers many trails throughout the community. You will find trails in the Konza Praire preserve, along Tuttle Creek and the Big Blue River, and several more in and around town!
Nestled in the Flint Hills, Manhattan, KS, is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of hiking trails that showcase the area's natural beauty. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a leisurely walk in nature, Manhattan's trails have something for everyone. Let's explore some of the best hiking spots in and around this charming city.
Tuttle Creek State Park
Tuttle Creek State Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and hikers, featuring over 1,200 acres of scenic beauty. The park offers several trails, each providing a unique experience of the local landscape.
River Pond Trail
This trail is perfect for beginners and families, offering a gentle path along the river pond. It’s a great spot for birdwatching and taking in the serene water views. The trail is well-maintained and features picnic areas, making it ideal for a day out in nature.
Fancy Creek Trail
For those seeking a bit more adventure, the Fancy Creek Trail is a must-visit. This 6.5-mile loop is moderately challenging, with rocky terrain and elevation changes. It’s popular among mountain bikers and hikers alike, offering stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Konza Prairie Biological Station
Just a short drive from Manhattan, the Konza Prairie Biological Station offers one of the most unique hiking experiences in the area. This Tallgrass Prairie Preserve is managed by Kansas State University. This hike provides a glimpse into the native ecosystem of the Flint Hills. Please pay attention to various signs on this hike, and it is important to know that dogs are not allowed on the Konza.
Konza Prairie Nature Trail
The Konza Prairie Nature Trails have three loop options—2.5 miles, 4.4 miles, and 6 miles—catering to various fitness levels and time constraints. As you hike, you'll pass through rolling hills, limestone outcrops, and diverse plant and animal habitats. Interpretive signs along the trail offer educational insights into the prairie ecosystem, making this hike both beautiful and informative.
Linear Trail Park
For a more urban hiking experience, Linear Trail Park runs through the heart of Manhattan, following the course of the Big Blue River. This multi-use trail is perfect for hiking, biking, and jogging.
Linear Trail
Spanning approximately 9 miles, the Linear Trail offers easy terrain and is accessible year-round. The trail connects several parks and neighborhoods, providing a convenient and scenic route for city dwellers. It’s also a great way to explore different parts of Manhattan while staying active. Look for the green posts around town, these mark the entrances and crossings of the trail around town.
The various trails in and around Manhattan, KS offer a variety of options for hiking, or biking your way through some amazing parts of the Flint Hills region.
Manhattan River Trail
Located near downtown Manhattan, the Manhattan River Trail is a local favorite for its scenic views and accessibility. This trail runs along the Kansas River, offering a peaceful retreat within the city limits.
River Trail
The River Trail is a 2.5-mile loop that’s perfect for a quick hike or a leisurely walk. The trail features shaded areas, open fields, and riverfront views, making it a diverse and enjoyable hike. It’s also pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friends along for the adventure. One of the unique things about this hike is that depending on how open the tubes are at Tuttle Creek, the sounds and sites of this hike will change.
Top of the World
For panoramic views of Manhattan and the surrounding Flint Hills, the Top of the World trail is a must-hike. This short but steep trail leads to an overlook that offers some of the best vistas in the area and the sunsets are hard to beat!
Top of the World Trail
The trail is about 1.5 miles round trip and suitable for all skill levels, although the final ascent can be a bit challenging. Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views that make the effort worthwhile. It’s a perfect spot for sunrise or sunset hikes.
Other hiking trails around Manhattan, KS
Hudson Trail
West of CiCo Park on Kimball Avenue, the paved trail stretches along the eastern edge of Colbert Hills and continues just beyond Kauffman Drive. The trail transitions to a natural hiking area past Kaufmann Drive. This one-mile trail intersects with Washington Marlatt Park and has a few steep inclines.
Northeast Community Park Trail
Once used for farming, this site became the community park it is today with the help of several neighborhood and conservation groups. This 79-acre park has a two-mile walking trail in addition to soccer practice fields, baseball/softball, and an area of picnic tables.
Randolph State Park
The trails at Randolph State Park loops at Carnahan Park are 5 and 8 miles long and offer amazing scenery of the lake. Randolph State Park is 200 acres and offers camping and fishing as well!
Some of the hiking trails in Manhattan, KS are also a part of history. Trails you will find along the Big Blue and Washington Marlatt Park are portions of what used to be a supply route from Fort Leavenworth, Kansas to Fort Riley, Kansas.
Warner Park Trails
Warner Park has several trails within the 82-acre park, including a trail known as "Eight Weeks Trail." This trail was developed by the Park Conservation Crew and is located on the west side of the park. One of the trails at Warner Park is a portion of the Military Road, this road, now trail, was the road used from Fort Leavenworth to Fort Riley by the U.S. Cavalry in the 1850s and 1860s.
Western Heritage Trail
This trail follows the Big Blue River from Dyer Road and ends at the Rocky Ford Fishing area. This three-mile loop follows the Big Blue and was used as a river crossing by pioneers and is also part of the former Military Road.
Why Hike in Manhattan, KS?
Hiking in Manhattan, KS offers more than just physical exercise; it's a way to connect with nature, unwind, and explore the unique beauty of the Flint Hills. The variety of trails ensures that there's something for everyone, whether you're looking for a challenging hike, a place to mountain bike, or a leisurely walk in nature.
Tips for Hiking in Manhattan, KS
- Stay Hydrated: Always bring plenty of water, especially during the hot and humid summer months.
- Wear Appropriate Footwear: Good hiking shoes are essential for navigating diverse terrains.
- Check the Weather: Kansas weather can be unpredictable and it is important to be informed, so check the forecast before heading out.
- Respect Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from animals and stick to the trails to protect the natural habitats. This will be especially true on the Konza!
- Leave No Trace: Carry out all trash and leave the trails as beautiful as you found them.
Manhattan, KS, is a hiker’s paradise, offering a range of trails that cater to all levels of experience. From the expansive prairies of Konza to the scenic riverfront paths of Linear Trail Park, there’s no shortage of places to explore. So, lace up your hiking boots, grab your water bottle, and hit the trails to discover the natural beauty that Manhattan, Kansas has to offer. Happy hiking!
