Central

Sample Itinerary

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Prairie Pathways – Central (Kansas & Nebraska Focus)

Distance: ~190 miles

Theme: Prairie ecosystems, rivers, and early settlement history

 

Stops:

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve (Strong City, KS) - Walk trails through restored tallgrass prairie, spot bison, and native wildflowers.

• Learning spark: Ask kids to imagine life on the prairie: what animals and plants would they encounter?

 

Flint Hills Discovery Center (Manhattan, KS) - Interactive exhibits about the region’s ecology, history, and geology.

• Content for the Road: “Prairie Explorer Checklist” (See Below)

 

Konza Prairie Biological Station (Manhattan, KS) - Observation trails through native tallgrass prairie with guided signage.

• Learning spark: Encourage children to identify plants and insects, and imagine tracking animal movement across the landscape.

 

Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge (Prairie City, IA) (optional, ~35 miles detour) - Restored prairie with walking trails and native wildlife observation points.

• Campsite Content: Prairie Eco-Challenge (See Below)

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Fort Riley Historic Area (Fort Riley, KS) - Historical fort grounds with exhibits on U.S. frontier and military history.

• Learning spark: Have kids imagine being young settlers or soldiers navigating prairie life and the challenges they faced.