Lehigh Portland
State Park

Lehigh Portland State Park is the product of a years-long project led by Thrive Allen County. It sits on the site of a former cement plant with the area now being a natural sanctuary.  

Lehigh-Portland sits on 100 acres of land with a massive variety of natural sites to see. Everything from deep woodland, Kansas prairie, gorgeous coastal cliffs, and even a cave can be explored in the park! This picturesque place is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.  

Crisscrossing across the park are around 14 miles of trails. There are around 2.5 miles of gravel trails at the park including the around 1.2 mile long “backbone trail.” Alongside it are 12.5 miles of dirt trails perfect for mountain biking, trail running, and nature hikes!

Great For:

  • Hiking
  • Running
  • Mountain biking
  • Wildlife watching
  • Exploring Caves!
  • Photos!

  • Lehigh-Portland Trails Map
    *click to enlarge

    Trail Access:
    Eastern Trailhead 
    - 1600th and Nebraska Road, Iola, KS 66749
    (37.907606, -95.390773 )

    Western Trailhead - Washington Avenue, adjacent to Elm Creek Park South, Iola, KS 66749
    (37.910114, -95.405564)

    • White-tail Deer
    • Ducks
    • Squirrels
    • Turtles
    • Hawks
    • Owls
    • Bald Eagles
    • Doves

    Wildlife in Kansas

    Kansas is rich with ecological diversity and natural beauty. From the tallgrass prairie to the high plains, or the wetland marshes and eastern wood hills, Kansas offers endless opportunities to view a variety of wildlife in their natural home. 

  • Certain gravel trails, such as the 1.2 mile "backbone" trail, are relatively flat and may be easier to traverse for those with mobility restrictions. There are not any major pavement trails at this time. 

  • Visitors are allowed to fish anywhere along Elm Creek, which runs through the park. Fishing is prohibited in the quarry lake.

    Potential fish in Elm Creek include: 

    • Channel Catfish 
    • Flathead Catfish
    • Smallmouth Bass
    • Largemouth Bass
    • White Crappie
    • Bluegill
    • Pumpkinseed
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  • Lehigh Portland State Park Photos

    About Kansas State Parks

    Kansas State Parks

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