Your Guide to Family-Friendly Trails in South Central

Discover the most unique trails

Whether you're visiting Wichita or another beautiful and lively city in South Central, explore the great outdoors with your family – the perfect way to bond with the people you love. Wichita and the surrounding Sedgwick County areas have everything a family needs to enjoy a staycation or a nice, long weekend away. We are certain the whole family will love these locations. 

Four people smiling while hiking together on a narrow dirt trail through a lightly wooded forest.

Chisholm Creek Park

Located near the Great Plains Nature Center, so many memories can be made at Chisholm Creek Park, one of Wichita's largest parks. With 282 acres and 2 1/2 miles of trails, witness varieties of animals and plants. With four trails to choose from, enjoy the beautiful nature and even a pond. This location is perfect for photos, and spending time with friends and family, and it’s long enough to get some serious exercise. 

A person standing under a wooden archway in a grassy field on a sunny day.

Santa Fe Lake

If you’re going to be active, you should choose a good spot. Santa Fe Lake, located in Augusta, is a short 10-minute drive from Wichita – a convenient trip for both locals and out-of-town visitors. This popular lake is known for having a beautiful waterfall and a short 4.7-mile trail for walking or biking. Families can also swim, picnic, bike and fish all in the same place. 

A white tipi sits in a lush green field, with a circular wooden structure and dense forest in the background.

Peace Treaty Trails

Another unique trail is the Peacy Treaty Trails in Medicine Lodge. Hike along the mile-long Red Rock trail or around the 1/2-mile historic Powwow Trail. When the September Powwow isn’t going on, walk around the grounds to see a teepee. This is a combination of exercising and a unique venue. 

Two runners jog along a paved trail beside a tree-lined lake on a sunny day.

Dillion Nature Center

For shorter trails that don’t require much hiking skills, check out the Dillion Nature Center in Hutchinson. For less than a mile, you can walk, jog, or bike four different trails. It’s the perfect choice for parents with children – you can confidently let your little ones run or walk on their own.

 

Now that you know the best trails, you can safely choose your destination without any difficulty. From solo travelers to families on an annual vacation, anyone can enjoy what this vivacious region has to offer. Find state parks and more things to do that make these cities the ultimate vibe.

Start Planning Your Trip to Wichita With our Handpicked Recommendations.

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