Ottawa section of Flint Hills Trail to open 93 miles of continuous system

OTTAWA, Kan. (KCTV) - One of the final sections of the Flint Hills Trail to undergo improvements is set to open to hikers, bikers and trail riders in May.

The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks has announced that the completion and grand opening of a newly improved section of the Flint Hills Trail State Park has been set for Saturday, May 17. The 2.3-mile segment can be found west of Ottawa between Louisiana and Iowa Terrace.

Once open, Department leaders said visitors will be able to enjoy uninterrupted travel along 93 miles of continuous trail between Osawatomie and Council Grove. The system offers expanded access to one of the longest rail-trails in the U.S., with the scenic beauty of the Flint Hills.

KDWP noted that the project was made possible with a grant from the Transportation Alternatives Program, which the Kansas Department of Transportation awarded. Construction included a 10-foot-wide multi-use trail surface, pedestrian bridge and improvements to three existing bridges.

Conservationists indicated that the improvements provide a smoother trail experience and improve safety across railroad tracks, which now eliminates the need for a 3.4-mile detour on country roads.

“The Flint Hills Trail is a shining example of how Kansas continues to invest in meaningful outdoor spaces,” said KDWP Secretary Christopher Kennedy. “With every completed section, we’re not just building trail—we’re connecting communities, expanding recreation access, and helping more Kansans experience the natural beauty of our state.”

A ribbon-cutting celebration is expected to be announced at a later date. KDWP indicated, however, that long-range plans to develop the trail along its full length remain a priority as funding becomes available.

For more information about the Flint Hills Trail State Park, click HERE.

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