Explore the best rated trails in Fort Scott, KS, whether you're looking for an easy walking trail or a bike trail like the Flint Hills Trail State Park and Pittsburg East-West Connector Trail . With more than 11 trails covering 207 miles you're bound to find a perfect trail for you. Click on any trail below to find trail descriptions, trail maps, photos, and reviews.
As a local resident, I was thrilled to discover that the Flint Hills Trail runs directly through Herington and wanted to explore more of what’s described as one of Kansas’s most scenic long-distance trails. Unfortunately, the segment between Herington and Delavan feels forgotten — undermaintained, underpromoted, and in some areas, barely passable. There are no directional signs or kiosks marking the trailhead within Herington, and most residents I’ve spoken to don’t use the trail at all or frequently. Access can be found off N F Street near the edge of town (no public parking lot), but once you begin walking, it quickly becomes evident that this portion hasn’t received consistent upkeep in years. Grasses and brush are heavily overgrown along and across the path, sometimes reaching knee to waist height. Drainage is poor in spots, and the trail bottlenecks frequently due to barbed wire fencing and narrow rocky corridors, making it difficult to exit quickly if needed. There are no benches, bathrooms, safety features, or trail mileage indicators along this portion. I encountered no other hikers or riders — and very little sign that anyone else uses this stretch regularly. Most notably, on my most recent walk I observed over a dozen large scat piles spaced along a 1–1.5 mile stretch near the US-77 underpass, many of which appeared fresh (within 12 hours), contained hair, had a strong urine scent, and were significantly larger in diameter than what is typical of local coyotes or raccoons. There was also visible tree bark stripping nearby. I’ve submitted photos and a report to Kansas Wildlife & Parks out of an abundance of caution, as the signs could potentially indicate the presence of a large omnivore or predator (possibly a bobcat, bear, or mountain lion passing through). This section of trail has great potential and stunning views of Kansas prairie and farmland, but without basic upkeep, signage, or safety monitoring, it’s not suitable for families or casual walkers. I hope more attention is given to this western end of the trail so it can become a safe and welcoming community asset again.
I rode the Ruby Jack trail in mid April 2025 on a weekday. I saw one jogger and one cyclist. This is a solid well packed crushed stone trail that you could ride any tire on. I was able to hammer most of the way. The interruption of railroad tracks that you have to carry your bike over was pretty odd. I rode from the east end to just past Carl Junction in the west until the trail got more rugged. I rate this marvelous trail 5 stars. Traveling cyclist Facebook
Great trail to cruise on e-bike. Did the entire 16 miles. Easy ride for must of it. At one point you will have to carry your bile over some train track. The last 2 miles on the Kansas end are not maintained, tall grass and low trees but that made it fun. There is about 100 yds close to the end that you have to jump off trail and ride the street but otherwise a great trail ride….enjoy.
0n 9/20/24, we rode on mostly crushed stone for a round trip distance of 20 miles. 32 c tires would be suitable. Need to be careful of the many deep ruts in the direction of travel. They will surely ruin your day. The trail was mostly shady. We encountered many branches across the trail. There must have been a severe storm the day before. There were also numerous spider webs across the trail. In the 20 mile trip, we never encountered another person on the trail. Restrooms at Caryle and Colony trailheads. Water at Colony and Iola trailheads.
I was traveling in the area and needed to kill a little time and found the Prairie Spirit Trail. I parked in Ottawa and rode south a few miles. I normally don’t ride gravel but this was superb. I turned around and rode back north on the paved trail in town to the end. I was not able to enjoy the entire trail but I will return here now that I’ve discovered it. I give this one five stars! Traveling cyclist Facebook
I rode an electric bike with 4" tires on three separate rides. All of them were about 10 miles out and back (in 2 days):
Council Grove heading East,
Allen heading West, and
Ottawa heading East.
I drove from Texas to ride them and they did not disappoint! I came for the solitude and the scenery. The western end was reminiscent of scenes from Dances With Wolves. The eastern end was more wooded and shaded. I hope to return to ride other parts too.
Lodging note. There is a new Holiday Inn Express on the Prairie Spirit Trail in Ottawa (just off I-35). They even have a short sidewalk connecting the 30’ between their parking lot and the actual trail. After getting on the main trail south of I-35, the trail is 90% canopied by the trees. In sections it’s just a green tunnel- great for hot sunny days. And rabbits. Lots and lots of rabbits. :o). Even saw a Bobcat run across the trail. out in front of us.
Ottawa Trailhead to Richmond. About 27 miles round trip & 272 ft. climb. Quick, easy ride. Well maintained trail with good surface for our hybrid bikes. It was a destination trail for us and glad we made to effort to experience it.
Nicely shaded well packed gravel trail. Parked our RV at the Carthage Trailhead in the nearby park. Parking available for cars at the trailhead. Remote trail so bring water and snacks.
My wife and I rode the Ruby-Jack. It was a good trail for our cruiser e-bikes. There was quite a bit of shade and the chat was packed good in most places. We enjoyed it. The trail still hasn’t been extended to the state line. Actual cleaned out and rideable miles are about thirteen which includes a railroad carryover at Carl Junction. We would recommend this trail and kudos to the the area cyclists club for this trail!!
Trail was very well-maintained, even after a hard rain. Humboldt community was amazing, lunch in Iola at Sharky’s was incredible… Try the beer, battered onion rings:-)
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