Exploring Kansas’ Most Diverse and Underrated Region

Whether it’s tracing the history of Route 66, driving the Frontier Military Scenic Byway, hiking through scenic state parks or chasing waterfalls tucked into wooded valleys, Southeast Kansas offers a surprising amount of variety.

The rolling Chautauqua Hills near Sedan feel worlds away from much of the state, with wooded landscapes, stone bluffs and streams that give rise to some of Kansas’ most well-known waterfalls. Destinations like Elk Falls, Woodruff Falls and Bourbon Falls anchor the region, while lesser-known spots reward those willing to explore side roads and trailheads.

In the far southeast corner of the state, Kansas even claims a small slice of the Ozarks, adding rugged terrain and dense forest to the mix. Combine that with historic highways, scenic drives and an unmatched concentration of waterfalls, and Southeast Kansas quickly proves it’s one of the most compelling regions to explore in the state.