Oakley Explorations
Learn more about Oakley by following the links below:
Nature Conservancy's Smoky Valley RanchAddress:
Latitude: 38.8875459 Longitude: -101.018183 Website: www.visitoakleyks.com/smoky-valley-ranch Email Address: info@buffalobilloakley.org About this Exploration: Imagine the western prairies when they were wild. It's easy at the Nature Conservancy's Smoky Valley Ranch. Nearly 17,000 acres in size, much of the land is leased to local ranchers, but 3,000 acres are committed to a buffalo herd. At the north end of the ranch, is a hiking trail that is open to the public. The trail has one and five mile loops that lead you to fantastic rock formations and into all the beauty of the High Plains. From Oakley, take U.S. 40 west to the western edge of Monument. Go south on 350th Road for about 15 miles on gravel roads to reach the hiking trail. Hiking Trail maps available at the Buffalo Bill Cultural Center. View the MAP
If it's rainy, plan this trip for another day. You will see a parking area and an information kiosk. If you just feel like sight-seeing or bird watching, the ranch continues for a few miles, covering 16,800 acres and features spectacular scenery. Just a couple miles past the Smoky River, you may see the buffalo herd off to the left, and deer and antelope may be playing in the area. |
Laurie Millensifer
3083 US Hwy 83
Oakley, KS 67748 Phone: 785.671.1000 Fax: 785.671.1244 |