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Important Trail Notice!- Click Here
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News Release from KDWP: COMPLETION OF FINAL PHASE ENHANCES PRAIRIE SPIRIT TRAIL Final leg of trail complete; online video provides preview In May of 1992, title of the 50-mile stretch of railroad right-of-way from Ottawa to Iola was transferred to the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP), and the agency developed a three-phase plan to develop the trail and open it to the public. Phase One -- from Richmond to Welda -- opened on March 30, 1996. Phase Two -- from Richmond to Ottawa -- opened Sept. 1, 1998. After several years of construction, KDWP has announced that Phase Three -- from Welda to Iola -- is now open. The trail's hard-packed limestone surface is suitable for foot traffic, bicycles, and wheelchairs. Portions of the trail inside city limits are paved asphalt adorned with ornamental lighting and landscaping. For the safety of trail users, it is routinely patrolled by KDWP officers and local law enforcement. The trail is open during daylight hours, and special permits may be obtained for group night rides or other events. Restrooms are spaced conveniently along the trail, and picnic areas are located at each trailhead. Camping is prohibited along the trail corridor, but North Lake Park in Garnett, which borders the trail, does allow camping. Fishing is allowed only in lakes at Garnett. Hunting and all firearm possession is prohibited along the trail corridor. For several years, bicyclers, hikers, runners, bird watchers, and other nature lovers have enjoyed 33 miles of the Prairie Spirit Trail. With the addition of the Welda-to-Iola segment, visitors now have a full 50 miles of nature to explore. For more information, phone 785-448-6767. To view an online video of the trail, visit the KDWP website at: http://kdwp.state.ks.us/news/layout/set/print/KDWP-Info/KDWP-TV. 
Welcome
to the 51-mile The 51-mile Prairie Spirit Trail offers a calm, peaceful tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of big city life. It’s time to get back to nature. Back to what is special about Kansas. This is indeed the good life in rural America. We invite enjoy a bike ride or hiking adventure that only Kansas can offer. Where every season creates a new landscape. Playful cottontail rabbits dart along the trail, while white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, quail and great horned owls can commonly be seen. Watch the ducks taking a refreshing splash on adjacent lakes and ponds. Colorful birds sing happily in the tall trees beside the trail. Trail enthusiasts can enjoy the small town scenery as this trail passes through charmingly inviting communities of Ottawa, Princeton, Scipio, Richmond, Garnett, Welda, Colony Carlyle and Iola. Take some time to experience the local flavor, whether it be an antique shop, a round of golf, eating at one of the many restaurants or partake of a festival or special event. Stay for a day or, better yet, make the move to live nearby. You’ll find the people friendly as if to step back into a Mayberry kind of atmosphere. Don’t forget to wave and say “Hello!” Are you ready? We’re waiting for you! If you have questions or need assistance please do not hesitate to email us at info@prairiespirittrail.org. We hope you enjoy visiting this website! If you have questions or need assistance please do not hesitate to email us at info@prairiespirittrail.org. We hope you enjoy visiting this website! Check these pages monthly for new information!
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