Over the Smoky Hills of weathered bedrock, the Post Rock Scenic Byway winds through 18 miles of fields, pastures, and prairie. The landscape’s unique beauty and challenges required pioneers to earn their space here, and the legacy of their creativity and resourcefulness lives on. Just look at the stone fence posts for which this route was named – as functional as the day they were erected. Pioneers solved their fencing problems on the largely treeless plains by quarrying and shaping limestone slabs. Today, that same innovative spirit has given rise to many independently-minded artists, farmers, and ranchers in the region.

The area’s many hills, creeks, and valleys create a habitat attractive to a range of wildlife. Here, hardy wildflowers flourish, along with countless acres of rich grazing land carpeted with native grasses. At Wilson State Park and Wildlife Area alone, more than 225 species of birds are known to visit in a year’s time. The lake is also one of the state’s premier spots for fishing, hiking, water skiing or relaxing. In addition, the area maintains one of the best mountain bike trails in Kansas. And don’t forget to look up. The boundless sky in Post Rock country is a favorite of photographers, especially at sunrise and sunset.