South Dakota | Nebraska | Kansas | Missouri

Back to the Midwest! I admit, I have spent little time here, but in the few passes I’ve made, the landscape and experiences surprised me every time. Do not make the mistake I did in assuming that everything is flat farmland. In these four states, you’ll find forests, hills, lakes, quirky small towns and really thoughtful city parks. The Midwest does not get enough credit for being a hiking destination. There’s plenty to keep you busy here. While you won’t find the towering mountains of Colorado or the long distance trails of the Pacific coast, you’ll enjoy peaceful walks along creeks, rolling tours of the grasslands, pretty views of interesting geology and amazing opportunities to surround yourself with wildlife.

South Dakota

You may know South Dakota as the home of Mt. Rushmore and that big rock that was in Close Encounters of the Third Kind. Or, maybe you’ve never thought once about South Dakota. That’s too bad, because there’s much to see and do here. Most of the state is relatively flat, but the Black Hills bring elevations of up to 4,000′ to the far western side of the state. On my first trek across the rolling plains of South Dakota, I stopped at the much anticipated Wall Drug and paused to look at the Badlands during a wild thunderstorm. Those are also worthy points of interest. But for the featured hike, we explore one of South Dakota’s 13 state parks that you might never have heard of.

Palisades State Park: A geological marvel located northeast of Sioux Falls, this park features 1.5 billion year old quartzite and the appropriately named Split Rock Creek. There are only a few miles of trails here, but it’s still a worthy hiking destination. If you’re interested in rocks, plants, animals, rivers or history, you’ll appreciate wandering around this little gem.

Nebraska

The Cornhusker State may be known for its agriculture and football, but it’s also a place to enjoy outdoor activities. It’s only got two types of land regions: the Dissected Till Plains and the Great Plains, so it’s flat. The highpoint is a drive-up site on a bison farm (with an entry fee). There are some parks and preserves, but the standout hike for me can be found in the state capital. I think one of the best ways to get to know a new place, whether it’s urban, rural or wilderness, is to take a long walk.

Omaha city walk: Get a different perspective on this Midwestern state by walking through the vibrant city of Omaha. I enjoyed discovering the neighborhoods, parks and public spaces on foot. It’s certainly preferable to driving through this perpetually-under-construction city, which appeared to be in the throes of growing pains during our visit. I found one of my favorite city parks ever here, so I think you should go check it out.

Kansas

I know two people from Kansas and neither of them prepared me for how much I’d love exploring here. Outside of the endless amber waves of grain, you’ll find rare plants, geological wonders, lovely small towns and a state highpoint. Yes, the state highpoint is in a corn field. But what stood out to me the most is a site that protects one of the most endangered ecosystems in North America: the tallgrass prairie.

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve: Visit an endangered ecosystem right in America’s heartland. See bison roaming free in the fields. Take a walk through the visitor center and learn way more about grasses than you ever thought you needed to know, and learn that they’re actually quite interesting. If you dare visit in the middle of winter, like we did, be sure to read my write up so you know what to expect. I’d love to go back in late summer or early fall to see the prairie at its most beautiful.

Missouri

Missouri shares borders with eight states and lies at a crossroads of east, west, north and south. Here you’ll find the Ozarks Mountains, Loess Hills, landscapes scoured by glaciers and karst topography with sinkholes and caves. Though it has no ocean front property, it is a place carved by water, notably the Mississippi, Missouri and Ohio Rivers. Outdoorspeople visit Missouri to camp, hunt and fish. They hike, bike and canoe. In the winter, bald eagles congregate on the rivers and snow geese come by the millions. It has 93 state parks and historic sites, several national historic trails, one national scenic riverway and Gateway Arch Natonal Park.

Ozark Trail to Taum Sauk Mountain: The Missouri state highpoint is only a quarter mile walk from the parking area, but it’s as many miles as you want it to be if you start somewhere else! When planning my visit, I noticed the Ozark Trail system nearby, which includes 430 miles of trail. I carefully selected a 20-mile one-way route that included the highpoint and many other features in the surrounding area. With Aaron as my trail shuttle, I packed up for a big day and had the time of my life exploring the Missouri backcountry. My only regret is that I couldn’t do more.