The hiking trails at Sand Hills State Park in Hutchinson, Kansas, are perfect for anyone who hasn’t experienced this unique region.
The park is northeast of Hutchinson right off of Highway 61. It’s really easy to find.
There’s a campground that has 44 RV sites with full hook-ups, 20 sites with water and power hook-ups, a community dump station and primitive sites for tent campers.
The campground also has 12-by-12 horse pens, which are perfect for our equestrian friends who ride the trails.
The trail park has a couple of parking lots. I parked in the bigger one directly across from the RV park. There are free trail maps tucked in mail boxes at the trailheads.
The Rolling Hills Trail
I started my hike on The Rolling Hills Trail, which was somewhat challenging because I was walking on fine sand that my feet sunk into with every step. I’m sure it’s great for horses, but it can wear a human out pretty quickly.
If you’re going to take this route, I’d recommend doing it at the start of your hike when you have fresh legs. This section would be pretty difficult as a final stretch to a six-mile hike.
Despite the challenging path, this was my favorite terrain to walk through on the trail. It really gives you a feel for the Sand Hills Region of Kansas.
The Ponds
The Rolling Hills Trail (and the Bluestem Spur Trail) leads you to the Ponds Trail. This section is a loop trail that goes around a few ponds in the northeast sector of the park.
This is a great place to view wildlife. There are a couple of strategically placed observation blinds for wildlife enthusiasts to get an up-close peek of feathered and furry friends.
The ponds didn’t have any water in them when I was there, but that’s no big deal. It was a pretty area anyway.
Moving Right Along
Back on the Rolling Hills Trail, the surface changed from sandy to grassy. The trail hugged the northern edge of the park and led me through, well…rolling hills.
The hills were lined with wildflowers including sunflowers, milk thistles and goldenrods. I also walked through hay meadows that had recently been cut and baled.
The trail turned south, and not long after, it turned west. This is where it got confusing.
I think there’s a utility trail that runs through the park. It’s not on the map but it cuts straight through parts of the trail. Be sure to pay close attention or you might make a wrong turn.
Eventually, I came to a “T” on the trail, which is where the hiking trail met the Woodland Trail. I turned left which took me south, back toward the RV park.
The Dune Overlook at Sand Hills State Park
The Woodland Trail led me through the tallgrass prairie, and eventually to the big hill.
The path that goes up the hill has steps made from thick boards and railroad ties, which was pretty cool.
When I got to the top of the hill, I was glad I saved this part of the hike for the end. From the 40-foot summit you get a panoramic view of the park.
You can see a few of the trails you were on and where you might go the next time you visit. All the trails were fun, but this was the best part!
If you plan on hiking in Kansas, the Sand Hills State Park is perfect for your next adventure.
I hope you enjoy the hike.
Safe travels!
Matt McCoy, writer & photographer, Rugged Kansas
Essential Info About Sand Hills State Park
Location: North of Hutchinson on Highway 61. Take the 56th Street exit to get to the main parking lot.
Fees: State Park vehicle permits are available at self-pay stations (I’m not sure how strictly they enforce these rules). Camping fees apply in the campground.
Dogs: Allowed but must be leashed
Activities: Hiking and horseback riding. No bicycles or motorized vehicles are allowed on the trails.
Trail Construction: Natural surface, mowed grass surface, system with optional loops
Trail Length from Description Above: 6 miles
Total Length Available: Approximately 12 miles
Camping: No camping on the trails. RV and tent camping is available in the campground.
Features: Wildlife, Woods, Pastures, Scenic Views, Open Prairie, Rolling Hills, Wildflowers
History: According to the Sand Hills State Park brochure, “For thousands of years, the Arkansas River carried sediment from the Rocky Mountains into this area. Prevailing southwesterly winds blew the fine sand out of the river valley, forming a narrow band of unstable sand dunes. The sand shifted and changed shape until vegetation established a foothold and stabilized the dunes. This line of sand dunes has created a diversity of unique habitats.” The park was established in 1974.
Hazards: Ticks are always a problem on grass-surface trails, check yourself often. You may also suffer chigger bites. Bug spray is highly recommended. There isn’t a lot of shade on most of the trails, take precautions against heat-related injuries. Drink plenty of water and take breaks every now and then.
Websites: https://ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Locations/Sand-Hills
Facebook: @SandHillsStatePark
Other Kansas hiking trails you may like:
Alum Creek Trail at Kanopolis Lake
Badger Creek Trail North at Fall River Lake
The Bridle Trail at Lake Scott