High Plains, Kansas
Once the hunting grounds of nomadic Arapaho and Cheyenne Indians, the High Plains is grand in scale. This is a land of vast rolling praries, sculpted by creeks, rivers, and shimmering fields of golden grain. Here you can wander the "Kansas Pyramids" - or Monument Rocks National Landmark - a fossil hunter's paradise, where prehistoric inland seas once covered the plains. You'll also come across High Plains towns, rich in history, country charm and some of the most unusual small-town museums in the nation. What's the best way to get to the High Plains of Kansas? Head northwest and follow a road less traveled.
Explore High Plains
Nicol School
The one-room Nicol School building symbolizes the cultural and social importance of education to the pioneers. It represents the 94 one-room rural schools that once graced the landscape in Thomas County.
Colby, KS Historic SchoolhousesSt. Francis Hotel
The St. Francis Hotel is a significant example of the businesses in Nicodemus during its era of great prosperity. Built in 1881
Nicodemus, KS Historic HotelsMinium Fossil Quarry Mural
On the south side of Main Street is the beautiful facade of the Citizen'
Morland, KS ArtsQuinter City Park
Quinter's City Park with the newly completed pool (1990) is a haven of rest for weary travelers. The park has picnic tables and shelter houses nestled under many shade trees.
Quinter, KS ParksSt. Francis City Campground
The St. Francis City Campground and Rest Area is located just adjacent and behind the Cheyenne County Museum and welcomes travelers at no charge. There are electrical hookups, drinking water, showers and restrooms, sanitary dump station, and handicapped accessible.
St. Francis, KS CampingPratt Pony Bridge
The historic Pratt Pony Bridge was made in the early 1900s in Nebraska. It contains no bracing which let horses cross with less reluctance. It now resides in city park and is one of only two pratt bridges remaining.
Morland, KS Historic Bridges"Spirit of the Prairie" Sculpture
This representation of the steadfast spirit of the early pioneers that led the way into the frontier stands in front of the Thomas County Courthouse. Artist - Charles Norton, 1985, from Leoti, Kansas
Colby, KS ArtsNorton County Historical Museum
Did you know that Norton County, Kansas, was the site of one of the biggest meteor impacts in the United States? At about 5:00 p.m. on February 18, 1948, there was a loud explosion and fireball approximately 15
Norton, KS MuseumsLast Indian Raid Museum
The Decatur County Museum is a celebration of prairie life. You can step back into the past by visiting the one-room schoolhouse, 1885 depot and jail, sod house and tack room. The museum has fifteen full buildings with over 15,000
Oberlin, KS MuseumsAtwood Country Club
The Atwood Country Club nine hole golf course is situated by Lake Atwood. It is a golfer's delight with many trees providing cool shade.
Atwood, KS Golf CoursesArt Deco Theater
Norton volunteers have rennovated the old Art Deco Theater in Downtown Norton, and enjoy providing the popcorn while you relax and watch movies.
Norton, KS Theatres