The Flint Hills of eastern Kansas are one of the last large remnants of the tallgrass prairie ecosystem that once covered 170 million acres of North America. The Flint Hills Trail runs 117 miles from Herington to Osawatomie along a converted rail corridor, crossing this rolling, grass-covered landscape of bluestem, Indian grass, and the flint-capped limestone hills that give the region its name. It is one of the great rail-trail experiences in the country — wide, well-maintained, and almost entirely free of development.

Most visitors ride or hike sections rather than the full 117 miles. The stretch through Chase County between Cottonwood Falls and Bazaar (about 25 miles) is particularly stunning — the Flint Hills here are at their widest and most dramatic, with views extending 20 miles across unbroken grass. In late spring, the ranchers conduct prescribed burns that turn the hillsides orange with fire and then brilliant green with new growth. The trail surface is crushed limestone and compacted gravel, suitable for hybrid bikes, fat bikes, or sturdy hiking boots.

The trail is free to use and open year-round. Dogs are allowed. Water is available in towns along the route. Some sections cross private ranch land — stay on the designated trail corridor. No permit required. The Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve near Strong City offers an excellent complement to a trail visit.