There are a lot of beautiful places in Kansas, and it just so happens we’ve got a scenic byway that connects two of them together. The Wetlands and Wildlife Scenic Byway is a 77-mile highway that connects two of the state’s most incredible wetlands. This fantastic region of the Sunflower State tends to get overlooked by our farmland and prairies. It may not be a very lengthy drive, but it’s a great way to see one of the most underrated areas of the state.
Wetlands are not an ecosystem that’s typically synonymous with Kansas, but the state is home to more than tens of thousands of acres of wetland wilderness.
Julie Buker/Google Maps
The Wetlands and Wildlife Scenic Byway will take you from the stunning Cheyenne Bottoms to the Quivira National Wildlife Refuge.
Anastasis Alayon/Google Maps
Quivira National Wildlife Refuge has been named a Wetland of International Importance, and these two refuges together are considered one of the Eight Wonders of Kansas.
Kansas Tourism/Flickr
The wetlands are home to countless animals that are unique to the marshy ecosystems. Both refuges also play an important role as a stopover point for migratory birds.
Steve Hartig/Google Maps
Not only will the Wetlands and Wildlife Scenic Byway allow you to see all kinds of plant and animal species you may not typically come across in Kansas, but you’ll also drive through several great small towns.
Ken Lund/Flickr
There are a number of great destinations that make great stopover points along the way.
Danielle Heath/Google Maps You’ll travel through cities like Hoisington, Great Bend, and St. John if you opt to travel the entire 77-mile byway.
The Quivira National Wildlife Refuge belongs on any Kansan’s bucket list.
Mark Alexander/Google Maps
And the Cheyenne Bottoms are just as magnificent. We’re so lucky that such a scenic road in Kansas connects the two!
designatednaphour/Flickr
You can check out the highway’s website for more information about this National Scenic Byway.
Julie Buker/Google Maps
Anastasis Alayon/Google Maps
Kansas Tourism/Flickr
Steve Hartig/Google Maps
Ken Lund/Flickr
Danielle Heath/Google Maps
You’ll travel through cities like Hoisington, Great Bend, and St. John if you opt to travel the entire 77-mile byway.
Mark Alexander/Google Maps
designatednaphour/Flickr
Have you ever driven the stunning Kansas Wetlands and Wildlife Scenic Byway? Share your experiences in the comments!
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