Konza Prairie Research Natural Area, Manhattan

The Konza Prairie is a shining jewel among natural areas in Kansas. The public is allowed to hike on three loop trails that take you progressively deeper into the refuge. White-tailed Deer and Wild Turkey are abundant year-round, but it helps to hike quietly to avoid scaring them away before you can spot them. You're likely to spot a bunch of other wildlife as well from Eastern Collared lizards on the rocks to Common Nighthawks on the wing near dawn and dusk. There are many wonderful vistas to soak in, and wildflowers are abundant from spring through fall. It's hard to pick a bad day or time to visit Konza, but morning or evening hikes typically provide the most memorable trips. The Konza Prairie is also an active location for research and Bison roam some of the non-public portions of the preserve. Most of the land was aquired by The Nature Conservancy and is leased to Kansas State University. Pets and bikes are not allowed on the trails. There is a primative restroom on the shortest hiking loop, but there is no running water.