Olathe Prairie Center

The Prairie Center, located in Olathe, Kansas, is a 300-acre natural area that preserves native tallgrass prairie and riparian woodlands. The center features a network of hiking trails that wind through diverse ecosystems, offering visitors a chance to experience the beauty of Kansas' native landscapes.

The main trail system at the Prairie Center consists of approximately 3 miles of paths. These trails meander through different habitats, including prairie, woodlands, and along a creek, providing a relaxing outdoor experience for hikers, walkers, and runners. Visitors are required to remain on the marked, established paths at all times, and the trails are designated for foot traffic only.

One of the key features of the Prairie Center is its commitment to preserving local flora and fauna. In mid-summer, visitors can observe native grasses growing taller than the average living room ceiling. The center also includes several ponds, with most serving as intermittent wetlands for wildlife. A small lake is available for fishing and water studies, while a bedrock creek offers opportunities for exploration of aquatic life and fossil observation in the limestone creek bed.

The Prairie Center serves an important educational role, offering various programs for schools, scout groups, and the general public. These programs focus on exploring the unique and diverse ecological communities present in the area. Limited interpretive programming is available, with topics and scheduling arranged through the area manager.

The Prairie Center is open to the public from dawn to dusk, seven days a week, allowing visitors to enjoy trail walking and fishing in accordance with state regulations.