Sandstone Formations
PLEASE READ
It is great that the
Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and
Tourism have embraced Geocaching. Not only
have they allowed it, but they also participate 
(visit
link). Please be respectful of this wonderful Kansas landscape
they have allowed us the access to and Leave No Trace finding the
cache, as I did while placing it. Although there are well
maintained trails throughout the area, the KDWPT ask that all
visitors try and not disturb the natural landscape as much as
possible while out exploring. Whether exploring on or off the
trails, always try and CITO where possible. I
have never left the area without a backpack full of trash, and I
encourage you to do the same. If at anytime you notice a path or
trail developing to the cache site, please contact me (here)
so that I may address it immediately. This cache was placed in
coordination with the state reviewer, who’s Geocaches first
brought me to this wonderful area (nearby
caches). Please be respectful of the natural habitat, and enjoy
Kansas.
LOCATION
This Geocache is
located in Horsethief Cannyon at Kanopolis
State Park, the first state park in Kansas.
A park permit is required (visit
link) and can be acquired at the KDWP Office at N 38° 38.610 W
097° 59.187. Located around Kanopolis Reservoir, the state park
consists of rolling hills, bluffs, woods, prairies, streams, and an
abundance of wildlife. The state park and the
Smokey Hill Wildlife Area to the north are connected so it's possible to access one area
from the other. Parking is available from both the Northwest
(Smokey Hill) and the Southeast (Horsethief Canyon). There are
several multi-use trails throughout the area that allow hiking,
biking, and horseback riding. Take note if you cross into the
Wildlife Area as public hunting is allowed. Trails in this area are
closed to all but foot traffic from November 1 through January 31
annually to limit hunter disturbance and for safety. There are
several gates along the trails allowing access from one section to
the next. Please keep them closed and latched. There is no horse
access other than through the state park.
Northwest
Parking N 38°
42.379 W 098° 02.379 This is a
walk-in public hunting parking area for the wildlife area, located
off of 25th Rd. There is no fee required to park here, however, as
with all public hunting area's, please be aware of and observe all
local hunting season's.
Southeast
Parking N 38°
40.308 W 097° 59.973 This is a
parking area for Horsethief Canyon. Normal parking fees apply
(visit
link). Access this area from Kansas 141 and Venago Rd (N 38°
38.317 W 097° 58.780).
KANOPOLIS INFO
& MAP Download
PDF 572.97 kB
PREPARATION
This area has some
deceptive terrain and it's easy to get disorientated. Although not
far from parking, it's always smart to let someone know where you
are going and what your expected return time will be. Setting a few
waypoints along the way can help keep your bearings straight and
makes it easier for the trip out. A pair of hiking shoes and some
water are a good idea here.
THE GEOCACHE
You are looking
for a 30 Cal Ammo Can hidden along a rocky ridge that
overlooks an interesting cave-like sandstone formation. Although
the supplied Horsetheif parking coordinates will get you here, I
highly recommend hiking in from the south on the trail. Using the
supplied "Trailhead" coordinates will allow you to see another
unique cave-like sandstone formation. You can actually see it in
the distance from the road as you pass by. When exploring these locations, please do not deface the
natural setting by carving your name into the rocks, no matter how
tempting. This is highly prohibited! Thank you. Enjoy.
