waterfalls in Kansas
When one hears the word Kansas, chances are, they will picture flat land and a sea of wheat. Though this is a typical Midwestern state, it has a less-known fact: beautiful waterfalls are tremendously present in this region, which is pretty diverse. As stated earlier, Kansas is not characterized by vertical landscapes; however, these watering spouts bring coolness and a stunning tourism marvel. In this article, let me show you the ten waterfall highlights in Kansas to open your eyes to the other side of the Sunflower State.
The following are waterfalls in Kansas, ten evidence that charm can be discovered if only the traveler is willing to take a few extra steps. From the Eastern Forest Region to the Central Plain Region, all of these waterfalls are beautiful in their own way and have their own histories. Therefore, let’s put on comfortable shoes and a camera and travel through the unfamiliar world of Kansas waterfalls.
1. Geary Falls
Located in Geary County, Geary Falls is among the ten waterfalls found in Kansas, and one can consider it a gem that is off the radar. This is a 35-foot waterfall that flows over limestone, and the scene forms a beautiful sight with the gushing water and the mist. The drop is quite extraordinary during the early spring months when water from melting snow and rain is channeled through the creek, converting what is normally a tranquil glide into a rapid.
For those willing to see Geary Falls, a small trail starts in the woodlands and passes through thick woods to the site. It has a natural forest environment around it, and it has become a perfect place for photographers and nature lovers to visit. Don’t forget to wear proper shoes, as the terrain is rough and can turn into a slide after the rain.
2. Cowley Falls
Another of the ten accessible waterfalls in Kansas is in Cowley County; hence, the name is Cowley Falls. This is a multi-step waterfall composed of several steps made of stones with nice waterfalls that one can hardly believe is in Kansas.
This moderate trail leads to the site, passing through native prairies and a few scattered oaks and hickories. Such an idea is used when approaching the waterfall, and the sound of water becoming louder with every step creates excitement. Although the waterfall is beautiful almost any time of the year, it stands out best during the latter parts of spring and early summer, when the flowers are in bloom and cover the meadows near the waterfall.
3. Butcher Falls
Butcher Falls can be found in Elk City State Park, and though there are 10 waterfalls in Kansas, this has got to be one of the best-kept secrets. While other waterfalls can be much higher, this one is 10 feet, but it is charming and easily accessible because of that.
This waterfall is where one of the branches of the Elk River drops over a sandstone cliff. The region that encompasses Butcher Falls is considered an area of high biodiversity, and therefore, visitors are likely to find many birds and other animals around this area. This is especially because the trail is short and maintained to ensure that anybody, including families and other casual hikers, can have a great view of the falls and feel the beauty of Kansas.
4. Chase County Falls
Due to geographical variations in Kansas, a beautiful feature popularly known as Chase County Falls has been developed across Chase County. This is one of the most distinct waterfalls out of the 10 found in Kansas. It cascades down layers of limestone and shale, giving it a beautiful, stepped formation with a side of geology.
Apart from the beauty Chase County Falls provides, much more can be given in return. Prehistoric fossils are common in the area, and travelers must see the footprints of marine creatures on the rocks. This is hopefully the most beautiful season, when the field of tallgrass transforms into a field of gold and contrasts with the water of the falls.
5. Chautauqua Falls
Chautauqua Falls in the southeastern region of Kansas is another one of the ten waterfalls that could be more popular among tourists. This north-central waterfall stands 25 feet high and breaks into a pool 30 feet below on a bed of limestone, with vegetation covering around the area.
Chautauqua Falls is a fascinating destination to visit; getting there involves making a rather strenuous hike through thick and thorny shrub vegetation and over steep rocks. But it is all good because, at the end of it, one is rewarded. The falls also contribute to the microclimate, which is a good environment for the ferns and mosses; the location resembles a tropical climate for Kansas.
6. Pillsbury Crossing Falls
Pillsbury Crossing Falls is 8 miles northeast of Manhattan, making it relatively easy to access among the waterfalls in Kansas. This expanse of the waterfall has a width of around one hundred and ninety feet and is quite shallow, not more than thirteen feet at its deepest. It crosses the breadth of Deep Creek; the settlers and local native population used this body of water as a ford in earlier days.
Today, Pillsbury Cross is a delightful area where people like to picnic and bathe. Because of the moderate gradient of the waterfalls, the water forms a multitude of pools, ideal for swimming during the warm months of the year. It is also a historical area with traces of stone structures and bridges left in the neighboring forest to portray the early lives of Kansas.
7. Prather Creek Falls
Prather Creek Falls is unknown to most people, and it is located in the northeast region of Kansas, down in the middle of rolling hills. It is among the waterfalls in Kansas. Part of this waterfall drops over one or more limestone shelves, which makes it a stunning waterfall featuring drooling water.
The falls are located amid a diversified hardwood timber land that is found to be rich in wild life, including deer, turkeys, birds, etc. An averagely difficult route is provided for those who’d like to enjoy the panoramic view of the falls as well as have the unique experience of getting closer to nature. The ideal time to go is in late May because many wildflowers grow on the forest floor and there’s more water in the falls.
8. Drywood Creek Falls
Our tenth waterfall on the Kansas list is Drywood Creek Falls, which is in Crawford County. This tiny but beautiful waterfall is a long cascade descending over a shelf of sandstone; it is a true gem nestled in the middle of the Kansas plain.
The falls can be viewed through a short hike, which is perfect for the entire family and takes not more than half an hour to complete. Dry wood Creek Falls is mostly a very beautiful site for human interaction activities such as fishing and picnics since the Dry wood Creek equally hosts native fish. The waterfall is surrounded by a deciduous forest, and when the trees shed their leaves in the autumn, it becomes the perfect season for taking photographs of this Kansas waterfall.
9. Bourbon County Falls
Though less popular than others, Bourbon County Falls is one of ten Kansas waterfalls that is beautiful any time of the year. This waterfall originates from a small stream that drops over a shelf of rock in the Marmaton River, a quiet and solitary place that is amid apparently endless fields of crops.
The fall is located between a prairie and a few trees, and thus it gives visitors the opportunity to experience two major ecosystems in Kansas. Spring is the most colorful season, especially when the meadow flowers and the birds traversing the continent brighten up the area.
10. Wilson County Falls
Last but not least, we have Wilson County Falls, which brings our list of waterfalls in Kansas to a close. Although this waterfall isn’t very tall, it provides a place for relaxation and a view into the underappreciated beauty of Kansas’ geography.
Due to their formation and structure, the falls are somewhat linked to a small creek that tumbles over the limestone steps, making them step-like. There are also a lot of plants around, with some varieties of native grasses and wildflowers enhancing the scenery. There is a short trail that takes one directly to the falls, which means it is relatively easy for most hikers to get to, and it is actually a very serene place to have a quick moment of solitude in the natural world.
Conclusion
These waterfalls in Kansas provide a view into the unseen beauty of the Sunflower State. The grand Geary Falls, Wilson County Falls, and all the other waterfalls on this list are peculiar in their narratives about Kansas’ geographical formation, ecosystems, and past.
