Verdigris River Bottoms Historic Military Road
Civil War wagon ruts through bleeding Kansas bottoms
The old military supply road that connected Fort Scott to the Arkansas River cuts a forgotten path through the Verdigris River bottoms, where Union forces moved supplies to Cherokee Nation allies during the Civil War. Original wagon ruts still scar the hardpan where Missouri bushwhackers ambushed federal convoys in 1863. The route threads between massive bur oaks and hickories that witnessed Bleeding Kansas, crossing ancient oxbow channels where teamsters watered their mules. Halfway through, you’ll find the remains of Camp Wildcat—earthwork fortifications built to protect river crossings from Confederate raiders pushing up from Arkansas.
Moderate difficulty requiring high clearance for creek crossings and muddy bottoms, but passable in dry conditions by most 4WD vehicles. Spring floods make this impassable until June, while fall offers the best conditions when leaves drop and you can spot historical features. No permits needed on this mix of private easements and public land, but respect posted boundaries. The reward goes beyond history—this is some of Kansas’ last original prairie-timber ecosystem, where elk once grazed and osage orange hedges still mark Civil War-era boundaries. Camping available at nearby Montgomery State Park.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Mixed |
| Features | Historic, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 12 mi / 19.3 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 920 ft |
| Best season | July-November |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Coffeyville, Kansas |
| Land manager | Mixed private/public |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | No |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Jeep Wrangler handle this trail?
Yes, but you'll want high clearance for the creek crossings and muddy bottom sections. Stock Wranglers do fine here, though aggressive tires help in wet conditions.
Why is July the earliest recommended month?
Spring flooding makes the Verdigris crossings dangerous until summer. The bottoms stay swampy through June, creating impassable mud holes.
Do I need permission to cross the private land sections?
The historic military road follows established right-of-way, but always check current access status with local authorities. Some landowners have closed sections in recent years.
What's the hardest part of this trail?
The main Verdigris River crossing can be tricky after rain - fast current and loose rock bottom. Scout it first and have recovery gear ready.
Can I camp along the route?
Dispersed camping is limited due to private land and flood zones. Plan to camp in Coffeyville or established campgrounds unless you've secured landowner permission.