Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve travel guide

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve travel guide

National Airports

There are no national airports located directly in the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, as it is a protected natural area. The closest airports with commercial airline service are Manhattan Regional Airport (MHK) in Manhattan, Kansas, and Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT) in Wichita, Kansas, both located approximately 100 miles from the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve.

Trains in Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve

There are no train stations located directly in the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve. The closest Amtrak station is in Newton, Kansas, approximately 50 miles from the preserve. From Newton, travelers can take a bus or rental car to reach the preserve.

Buses in Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve

There are no buses that run directly to the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve. However, there are a few options for bus travel to nearby cities.

Greyhound operates bus routes to Emporia, Kansas, which is approximately 50 miles east of the preserve. From Emporia, travelers can rent a car or arrange for a shuttle service to the preserve.

Another option is the Jefferson Lines bus service, which has a stop in Wichita, Kansas, approximately 100 miles southwest of the preserve. From Wichita, travelers can rent a car or arrange for a shuttle service to the preserve.

It’s important to note that visitors will need a car to explore the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve and surrounding areas, as public transportation options are limited.

How to get to Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve

The closest major airport to the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve is the Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT), which is about 110 miles southwest of the preserve. From there, visitors can rent a car or arrange for a shuttle service to drive to the preserve.

There are also several smaller airports in the area, including the Emporia Municipal Airport (EMP) and the Manhattan Regional Airport (MHK), which are both about 70 miles from the preserve.

Alternatively, visitors can drive to the preserve using their own vehicle. The preserve is located just off of US Highway 50, approximately 2 miles west of the town of Strong City, Kansas, and 20 miles east of the city of Emporia, Kansas.

What is the best time to travel to Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve

The best time to visit Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve is during the late spring and early summer months (May to June) when the wildflowers are in bloom and the prairie grasses are at their tallest. The weather is typically mild and pleasant during this time, making it an ideal time for hiking and exploring the preserve. Fall (September to November) is also a good time to visit, as the colors of the prairie grasses change and the weather is usually mild. However, summers can be hot and humid, and winters can be harsh with snow and ice, so it’s best to plan accordingly.

How to get around Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve

As Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve is a protected natural area, there are limited options for transportation within the preserve. Visitors can explore the preserve on foot or on horseback through the various trails available.

There is a scenic drive that allows visitors to enjoy the beauty of the prairie from their cars. However, visitors are advised to stay on designated roads to protect the fragile ecosystem.

Additionally, the park offers ranger-led tours and talks, which provide visitors with an informative and educational way to explore the preserve.

Accommodations in Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve is a protected area and wilderness located in the Flint Hills of Kansas, and it does not have any accommodations or lodging options within its boundaries. However, there are several nearby towns where visitors can find lodging and other amenities.

The town of Cottonwood Falls, located just north of the preserve, has a variety of lodging options including hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals. Another nearby town, Strong City, also has a few hotels and motels.

Visitors looking for camping options can check out the nearby Chase State Fishing Lake and Wildlife Area, which offers primitive camping and RV hookups. The Preserve also offers backcountry camping, but permits are required and limited.

Other nearby towns with lodging options include Emporia, Council Grove, and El Dorado, which are all located within an hour’s drive from the Preserve.