Gypsum Hills: Communities | Spotlights | Itinerary | Maps | Images | GPS Tour

Ancient floodplains, buttes, canyons, mesas and sinkholes are rare on the Great Plains. Yet, nestled in Kansas grasslands is the Gypsum Hills, or Red Hills, with plenty of geologic diversity. The Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway is enchantingly noteworthy for its rolling, weathered hills, picturesque vistas and outdoor recreational options. The drive affords tantalizing views of the rugged landscape and includes two scenic overlooks to help you soak it all in. 

Yet the Gypsum Hills’ geological good looks are just the beginning. The region boasts a history and spirit enriched by cattle ranching, Lewis and Clark, Native-American heroes Chiefs Black Kettle and White Bear, temperance-movement heroine Carrie Nation, westward-moving American pioneers, and much more. You’ll also find art galleries, a drive-in theater in Medicine Lodge, museums, restaurants, and shops to leisurely explore and enjoy. And in the hills’ parks, enjoy biking, birding, camping, climbing, fishing, hiking, and swimming.

Highlights along the 42-mile Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway include:

Barber County State Fishing Lake and Wildlife Area – Fish, hike, hunt or camp on 190 acres.

Carrie A. Nation Museum – Get to know this teetotaling heroine.

Memorial Peace Park – Site of the Medicine Lodge Peace Treaty Pageant where the Treaty of 1867 was signed. 

Lake Coldwater - Enjoy boating, swimming, fishing, birdwatching, camping and hiking on this 250 acre area.

 
Gypsum Hills

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For more information about the Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway, contact:

Roger Masenthin
Sunflower Resource Conservation & Development
roger.masenthin@ks.usda.gov
620-896-7378

Kaye Kuhn
ptreaty@sctelcom.net
620-886-9815