Scenic 42-mile route through rugged red hills, mesas, and canyons offering panoramic views, wildflowers, and access to outdoor recreation and historic sites.
General Information
How to Get There
From Wichita, KS (95 mi): Take US-400 W to KS-14 S, then head west on US-160 to begin the byway at Medicine Lodge and continue west to Coldwater.
Overview
The Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway is a 42-mile stretch of U.S. Route 160 that winds through one of Kansas’ most dramatic landscapes. Known locally as the “Red Hills,” this region features rust-colored buttes, mesas, and canyons sculpted by centuries of erosion. The byway offers a cinematic drive through Barber and Comanche counties, with interpretive stops highlighting the area’s geology, wildlife, and Native American history. In spring, wildflowers blanket the hillsides, while fall brings golden grasses and crisp air perfect for sightseeing.
Travelers can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and photography at scenic pullouts, or explore nearby attractions like the Carry Nation Home and the Medicine Lodge Stockade Museum. The byway also passes near the site of the 1867 Indian Peace Treaty Pageant, held every three years. With its blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, the Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway is a must-see for road trippers seeking a quieter, more rugged side of Kansas.
This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway, which are released under the https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/.
