Prairie Trail Scenic Byway

Overview

Native Americans, explorers, and pioneers traveled this area seeking food, shelter, and a better life. Historians believe Francisco Coronado surveyed the countryside in the early 1540’s. Other famous visitors include Zebulon Pike and “Buffalo Bill” Cody The nearby Santa Fe Trail to Mexico was followed by early traders and the Chisholm Trail was used by 19th-century cowboys to drive cattle. Herds of bison roamed the Flint Hills. The area was settled by immigrants from many countries. The Swedish culture and heritage is evident in many communities.