Hiking the Lehigh Portland Trails in Iola, Kansas, led to a few surprises. By hiking these trails, I came across multiple things that I never expected to see in our state!
The Lehigh Portland Trails are multi-use trails for hikers, trail runners and bikers.
The Lehigh Portland hiking trails are located just south of Iola, which is intersected by Highways 54 and 169 in eastern Kansas. The park is on the site of a former cement plant and quarry, and is bordered by Elm Creek.
There are two trailheads to pick from. To get to the easiest one, go south of town on State Street and turn east on Bassett. This road will curve around and lead you to the trailhead.
I didn’t see any restrooms along the trail so take care of your business in town before your hike.
There’s a map kiosk at the trailhead that helps you find waypoints. I specifically wanted to see the John Brown Cave, and the map helped me pick the trails that would take me there.
The trail begins in an industrial area and runs along Elm Creek. There are a few spots where you can get a pretty good view of the creek.
Backbone Trail is the main section that splits the park almost right down the middle. Smaller single-track trails sprout from the Backbone Trail.
I took the Backbone Trail all the way southeast until I reached a “T” where the Backbone Trail went left, and the narrower South Loop Trail went right. I took the South Loop Trail.
The South Loop Trail had a few surprises along the way, such as an abandoned trailer that may have once hauled livestock, but also might have served as someone’s temporary home!
The South Loop Trail led me to the Cave Connector Trail which is a short, narrow trail that goes across an asphalt road (look for cars), and connects to the Cave Trail North and Cave Trail South.
I took this trail all the way back until I reached another “T” and turned right to get on Cave Trail South. Not far after this, I reached the east opening of the John Brown Cave.
This is a pretty area. Very peaceful. But the cave ceiling was really low. I was able to go back a little but not very far.
After hanging out for a few minutes, I got back on the Cave Trail South. This section had a few surprises as well, like limestone walls and a hand-dug well. There were also a few building foundations throughout this section.
Eventually, the Cave Trail South led to the west opening of the John Brown Cave. This opening was exactly what I was hoping to see!
Again, it was a beautiful and peaceful setting, but I could actually walk back into the cave. I didn’t go back too far.
I have zero experience exploring caves and I’m pretty claustrophobic! Not only that, I was alone and exploring a cave by myself would’ve been pretty dumb.
I did, however, take the opportunity to cool off in the cave.
After taking a break, I got back on the trail. The rest of Cave Trail South is very windy, which is perfect for bikes. If you don’t like hiking these kind of trails, you can just make your way back to the Connector Trail.
I made my way back across the asphalt road and connected with the South Loop Trail. I went left on the trail which looped around to a breathtaking view of the lake.
I couldn’t believe how blue the water was. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a lake in Kansas with blue water like that. It was so clear that I could see fish swimming around!
I was also amazed at the cliffs that surrounded the lake. The cliffs drop straight down about 20 or 30 feet…nothing but smooth rock walls. It was like something you’d see in another country!
Once again, I sat and just soaked in the views.
Moving right along, I continued on the South Loop Trail. There were a few spur trails that led down to the water. There was also a pavilion with a picnic table that offered great views of the lake.
The South Loop Trail took me back to the Backbone Trail, and I made my way back to the trailhead. I could’ve spent the whole day exploring the rest of the trails, but it was time to head back.
If you get the chance, you should also check out the really unique town square in Iola. They also have really nice parks and as a bonus, the Prairie Spirit Rail Trail runs along the west side of town.
The Lehigh Portland hiking trails in Iola, Kansas, were definitely worth the drive. I’m really glad I made the trip.
Safe travels!
Matt McCoy, writer and photographer, Rugged Kansas
Location: The Lehigh Portland hiking trails are south of Iola, Kansas.
Fees: No.
Dogs: Allowed. Must be leashed.
Activities: Hiking, Biking, Trail Running, Caving.
Fishing and swimming aren’t allowed in the quarry lake, but they are allowed in Elm Creek.
Trail Construction: Gravel Surface, Natural Surface, System Trail.
Trail Length from Description Above: 6 miles
Total Trail Length in the Park: 10+ miles
Camping: No camping in the park. There’s an RV campground on the south side of the quarry lake. There’s also an RV campground on Highway 54 on the west side of town.
Features: Wildlife, Deep Woods, Water Crossings, Lake Views, Cave, Abandoned Farm Structures, Picnic Areas
Hazards: Ticks and chiggers are a problem on the grassy single-track trails. Apply bug repellent and check yourself regularly for ticks. Quarry cliffs present fall hazards that could result in serious injury or death. Caving presents many hazards. Never go in alone, have multiple sources of light, and don’t go in after rainy weather.
Historical Significance: According to the Lehigh Portland Trails’ website, “The Lehigh Portland Trails are built on the site of a former cement plant and quarry, along the banks of Elm Creek in Iola, Kansas. The trail’s name pays homage to Allen County’s industrial past and specifically to the Lehigh Portland Cement Company, which purchased the Iola Portland Cement Company in 1917 and operated a major plant in Iola until 1970.”
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Other Kansas hiking trails you may like:
Badger Creek Trail North at Fall River Lake
The Two Section Trail at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve
The Prairie Trail at Kanopolis Lake