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Close encounters with wild bison in Kansas’ only national preserve.


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Map Key

2.0

Miles

3.2

KM

99%

Runnable

1,412' 430 m

High

1,232' 375 m

Low

180' 55 m

Up

3' 1 m

Down

2%

Avg Grade (1°)

8%

Max Grade (4°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Need to Know

There are over 40 miles of trail in the park. Most of it is through active pasture, so your plans need to be fluid as the bison and cattle may decide to take the trails for themselves. There is no shade anywhere on this trail, so bring plenty of sun protection.

Description

The Ranch Legacy Trail starts at a trailhead in the visitors center parking lot. It follows mowed grass paths and old ranch roads which are mostly dirt ruts. It is a one-way trail that connects to the Scenic Overlook Trail in the Windmill Pasture, home to the park’s bison herd. It also gives access to the Crusher Hill Loop and the Z Bar Spur which is a connector to the Fox Creek Trail.

Flora & Fauna

The main highlight here is the bison but you'll also see cattle, birds, bees, and beetles. This is the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, so you'll definitely see some tallgrass prairie complete with wildflowers.

Contacts

Shared By:

Phillip Oyer

Trail Ratings

  4.0 from 3 votes

#12609

Overall
  4.0 from 3 votes
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4 Star
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Trail Rankings

#62

in Kansas

#12,609

Overall
2 Views Last Month
150 Since May 21, 2018
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Photos

Mowed ranch road ruts that make up most of the Ranch Legacy Trail.
May 21, 2018 near Cottonw…, KS
Bison crossing the road.
May 19, 2018 near Cottonw…, KS

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