Posted by Wynn Ponder
One of the most overlooked benefits of traveling in rural Kansas is the quality of the journey itself. Sure, the towns are as unique as fingerprints, as friendly as family, but the joy of the open road is nowhere more liberating than places like Highway 177 between Cassoday and Council Grove, or the fiery mesas on Highway 160 between Coldwater and Medicine Lodge, or Scenic Route 105 south of Toronto, or Highway 18 or Interstate 70 in the Smoky Hills.
What’s your favorite stretch of open road in rural Kansas? Share it by commenting on this post.
4 comments
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October 30, 2008 at 9:29 pm
Beth Pfeifer
I have been on alot of those streches of highway, but the first one that comes to mind for me is along I-70 in what I call the “Ellsworth Hills” between Russell and Salina. As you drive along there you can just imagine the wagon trains coming over and hills. I often wonder what those wives from the east thought…….the land must have seemed so desolate and scary yet beautiful in its own right.
Although I am a proponent of the wind energy campaign, this strip of land has now been taken over by wind turbines on the north side of the highway.
Now the scenery is blanketed by the new wind mills while the small peaceful wind mill of the past sits quitely on the prairie.
Times are a changing………………………….
On another note, enjoyed the trailer!!!!!!! Anxious to see the finished project. Best Wishes.
Beth Pfeifer, Russell, KS
October 31, 2008 at 2:17 pm
Wynn Ponder
Thanks for the comment, Beth. Our crew came back that way yesterday around sunset, and it is a truly gorgeous landscape. Even the mile-after-mile of wind generators has a certain colossal majesty that takes your breath away.
We also fell in love with the high hills and deep valleys along Highway 232 on the east end of Wilson Lake.
November 4, 2008 at 9:34 am
Abby Dechant
While the drive from Cassody north is quite beautiful, you really don’t get the full experience until you travel the roads of Wabaunsee County. Our raw view of the landscape is portrayed along the Mill Creek/Skyline Scenic Drive, and the Native Stone Scenic Byway. Stone Fences line the modern highways; remnants of homesteads can be seen reminding you of what once was.
This is a truly unique and historic trip through the Flint Hills!
Thanks so much for the opportunity to share!
ABBY Dechant, Alma KS
November 4, 2008 at 12:51 pm
Wynn Ponder
That’s a new one on me; can’t wait to check it out. Thanks, Abby.