Flint Hills Trail State Park added to national hall of fame
TOPEKA (KSNT) - A massive trail network in Kansas is being welcomed into a national hall of fame this week thanks to an outpouring of support.
The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) announced in a press release on Aug. 8 the Flint Hills Trail State Park is set to be inducted into the Rails to Trails Conservancy's (RTC) Hall of Fame. Kansans were allowed to vote for the trail's addition to the hall of fame from July 31 to Aug. 6 this year.
"It is clear why the country rallied around the Flint Hills Trail State Park as the next Hall of Fame Trail,” said Ryan Chao, RTC’s president. “This trail stands out as a prime example of how trails bring joy, provide cultural and historic connection, and deliver economic opportunity—all critical to quality of life across America. This trail has catalyzed the state’s trail economy and will serve as inspiration for countless communities to emulate.”
The KDWP reports the Flint Hills Trail State Park received a clear majority of the votes at 80% of the total during the contest. The Murdock Canal Trail in Utah and East Central regional Rail Trail in Florida were the other two nominees for the hall of fame induction.
“I am pleased the Flint Hills Trail State Park will be recognized as a member of the Rails to Trails Conservancy’s Hall of Fame," said Kansas Governor Laura Kelly. "This honor is a testament to the natural beauty of our state and the commitment of Kansans who have worked to preserve it. In addition to promoting healthier lifestyles, Kansas State Parks contribute millions to the economy annually. The importance of these parks to our state’s economic well-being, as well as to the quality of life of Kansans, cannot be overstated.”
The Flint Hills Trail State Park runs for nearly 120 miles in east-central Kansas and is open to hikers, bikers and horseback riders. The Kansas Legislature designated the trail as a new state park in 2018 while the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) recognized it as a National Recreation Trail in 2020.
"The Flint Hills Trail State Park isn't just a path across Kansas, its a journey through the essence of Kansas, through the land, the cultures, and the endeavors of the communities," said Jeff Bender, Kansas State Parks regional supervisor.
You can learn more about the Flint Hills Trail State Park by clicking here. You can check out the RTC's Hall of Fame by clicking here.
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