Smoky Valley Scenic Byway

As the sun begins to rise, the valley’s endless horizons awake slowly in a blue haze. And as the sun sets along the Smoky Valley Scenic Byway, those same hills fade into smoky azure. This scenic loop is filled with unexpected landscapes and colorful flora. Those wishing to unplug and unwind can find peace in the silence of the hills. Others that enjoy flexing their observational prowess may relish the area’s geocaching culture. There’s not a wrong way to experience this route. Find more information on the Smoky Valley Scenic Byway Website

Smoky Valley Byway Map

Request a Byways Guide

View The Digital Byways Guide

Things to do along the way

About the Byway

Interpretive Sites

Locations

East side Eisenhower Park near US 283 & I-70 (39.015, -99.88528)
South of WaKeeney on US-283 (38.83853, -99.89265)
Cedar Bluff State Park South end of dam (38.77816, -99.72036)

Driving Directions

Distance: 60 miles

Loop 1 - WaKeeney to Ogallah: Start at I-70 exit 127 for US-283 in WaKeeney, KS. Head south on US-283 for roughly 25 miles until you reach K-4. Make a left on K-4 and continue towards Brownell, KS for about 9 miles. Turn left onto K-177 just east of Brownell, KS, and head north for another 25 miles towards Ogallah, KS. Along the way to Ogallah, be sure to check out the scenic Cedar Bluff State Park. The route concludes once you reach exit 135 off I-70 for Ogallah.

Loop 2 - Ogallah to WaKeeney: Start at I-70 exit 135 for Ogallah, KS. Head south on K-177 for roughly 25 miles towards Brownell, KS. Along the way to Brownell, be sure to check out the scenic Cedar Bluff State Park. Once you reach K-4 by Brownell, make a right onto K-4 and continue for about 9 more miles until you reach US-283. Turn right onto US-283 and head north towards WaKeeney, KS. The route concludes at WaKeeney.

Cedar Bluff State Park

The Smoky Valley Byway conveniently loops around one of the most beautiful state parks in Kansas: Cedar Bluff State Park. The limestone and chalk rock formations surrounding the lake create some of the most scenic views in Northwest Kansas!