I don’t want to overlook the little side trip that brought me 4,000 + feet up into the Kansas high country on Tuesday afternoon.  I wouldn’t recommend hiking up there, as it would be something of a nuisance to the working farmers and combine drivers who are the region’s mainstay.  There is something enticing about Mt. Sunflower, though.

So, my trusty Kia took me twelve miles up the dirt roads from Goodland and then back out, just west of Sharon Springs.  In the middle of it all, five hard working families toil, day in and day out, towards getting the rest of us at least some of our daily bread.

Here is what the area on and around Mt. Sunflower looks like.

These are actually a sign that one has gone too far west.  Back track 1/4 mile and go through the gate, when you see the pole off to the north.  Below is another indicator to turn around.

This is the spot you’re looking for.

Mountaineering in Kansas is fascinating.  Why, on a clear day, you can see Colorado!