Comanche County Historical Museum
The Comanche Cattle Pool covered the Gypsum Hills from the late 1870's to 1885. Fifteen cattlemen "pooled" their holdings into a herd of…
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Ancient floodplains, buttes, canyons, mesas, and sinkholes are rare on the Great Plains. Yet, nestled in the Kansas grasslands are the Gypsum Hills, or Red Hills, with plenty of geologic diversity. The 42-mile-long Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway is enchantingly noteworthy for its rolling, weathered hills, picturesque vistas, and outdoor recreational options. The drive affords tantalizing views of the rugged landscape and includes two scenic overlooks to help you soak it all in.
Yet the Gypsum Hills' geological good looks are just the beginning. The region boasts a history and spirit enriched by cattle ranching, Native-American heroes Chiefs Black Kettle and White Bear, temperance-movement heroine Carrie Nation, westward-moving American pioneers, and much more. You'll also find art galleries, a drive-in theater in Medicine Lodge, museums, restaurants, and shops to leisurely explore and enjoy. And in the hills' parks, enjoy biking, birding, camping, climbing, fishing, hiking, and swimming.
Distance: 42 miles
The route runs east or west between Medicine Lodge and Coldwater on U.S. 160, with access from U.S. 183 in the west and U.S. 281 in the east. Additional access can be from highways passing near Harper on U.S. 160 east of the byway.
The Comanche Cattle Pool covered the Gypsum Hills from the late 1870's to 1885. Fifteen cattlemen "pooled" their holdings into a herd of…
Buster's Saloon, in a building built in the 1870's, offers a full lunch and dinner menu, and don't forget the "fishbowl"! A truly unique…
The Medicine Lodge Peace Treaty Statue commemorates the Signing of the Treaty of 1867, between the U S Government and the Five Southern…
Earl Kuhn paints from his studio where he creates unique and detailed watercolor paintings that tell the story of the contemporary cowboy…
The Medicine Lodge Stockade Museum gives you a taste of what life was like in a stockade in the 1870s. Journey with us to a time in our…
Experience life on the Gyp Hills Guest Ranch, over looking the scenic Gypsum Hills southwest of Medicine Lodge. We have something for…
Barber State Fishing Lake is a 77-acre lake located at the north edge of Medicine Lodge. Camping, picnicking, and fishing are allowed…
Gypsum Hills Trail Rides is a family owned trail riding and hiking operation that started in 1974. We are located 9 miles west of Medicine…
Dedicated in 1980, Lake Coldwater is a wonderful, scenic place for water-related sports including swimming, bird-watching, wildlife…
Housed in a former church, Maker Mercantile, is a one of a kind place. On the main floor, you will find a unique shopping environment…
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Along the byway, you'll encounter landscapes and communities shaped by the powerful forces of motion and change. You're entering a…
For more information about the Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway, contact:
Dollie Mathes 620-243-3059 Medicine Lodge Tourism 620-886-9815