Buckeye Trail
Historic cattle trail through the heart of Flint Hills
The Buckeye Trail follows an original 1800s cattle drive route through the heart of the Flint Hills, where bluestem grass once reached horse bellies and cowboys pushed herds north to Kansas railheads. The 28-mile route winds through private ranch land and state trust sections, crossing Buckeye Creek seven times and threading between limestone outcrops that define this ancient prairie landscape. The most challenging section comes at mile 14 where Spring Creek meets Buckeye Creek—expect mud, rocks, and water up to your bumper after heavy rains.
This is a moderate trail requiring high-clearance 4WD and aggressive tires for the creek crossings and muddy bottomland. Spring through early summer offers the best conditions, though creek levels can spike quickly after storms. No permits required, but respect private land boundaries marked with orange paint. The payoff is legitimate Flint Hills solitude and some of the best remaining tallgrass prairie in North America—plus decent camping spots along the higher ridges with permission from local ranchers.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Mixed |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 28 mi / 45.1 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 1450 ft |
| Best season | April-June |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Matfield Green, Kansas |
| Land manager | Private and Kansas State Trust Land |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Jeep Wrangler handle the Buckeye Trail?
Yes, a stock Wrangler with high clearance and 4WD will handle this trail fine. The main challenges are creek crossings and soft prairie soil, not rock crawling.
Are the creek crossings deep on this trail?
Creek depths vary with rainfall but typically range 12-24 inches. Scout crossings on foot first and avoid during spring floods or after heavy rain.
Do I need permits to drive the Buckeye Trail?
No permits required, but portions cross private land where access can change. Respect all posted signs and stick to established routes.
What's the hardest part of this trail?
Navigation through unmarked prairie sections and creek crossings after rain. GPS is essential as old cattle trails can be faint or overgrown.
Is there cell service for emergencies on the trail?
No cell service anywhere on the trail. Carry emergency communication devices and inform others of your travel plans before heading out.