Native Stone Scenic Byway overview

The Native Stone Scenic Byway showcases an area in Kansas that is well known for its native limestone. Limestone fences frame the portrait of farming and ranching in the area. The native stone is evident in bridges and buildings, as well. The byway journeys on K-4 and K-99 through Mission Creek and Mill Creek valleys, in Shawnee and Wabaunsee counties in the glorious Flint Hills. Natural elements abound: twisting, winding creeks; grazing land, vast vistas, stone deposits, elevation changes, seasonal foliage and wildflowers.

Architectural and historic features reflect civilization's interplay with the natural elements. Dover boasts two historic landmarks: the 1878 Sage Inn and Stagecoach Station and the Dover General Store (café). Eskridge's most prominent architectural element is the Security State Bank Building with its turret and columned arches built in 1904. The 1905 Henry Sump Barn just south of Alma is a magnificent redwood and limestone barn. Other limestone barns and homes may be enjoyed along the byway.

The Alma business district is 98% native stone structures built in the 1800s. In addition, the Wabaunsee County Courthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is built of native limestone and Carthage stone which gives the appearance of granite. The 50-year-old Alma Creamery provides tours for visitors to watch cheese being made. The Maisie DeVore Public Swimming Pool in Eskridge is unique in that Ms. DeVore financed the pool by collecting aluminum cans.

History buffs can also visit the Wabaunsee County Historical Museum in Alma with exhibits depicting life in the Flint Hills. In addition, the Shawnee County Historical Society and the Kansas Museum of History are within five miles of the byway. For Civil War buffs, the Beecher Bible and Rifle Church is just north of the byway near Wabaunsee.

If recreational pursuits are more to the vistor's interest, Lake Wabaunsee is "the Gem of the Flint Hills." Picnicking, boating, swimming and golfing are available at this lovely lake. Railroad Park in Alma includes a restored 1800's log cabin, a millinery shop and a hand-dug well. McKnight Park, just south of Alma, includes ball fields, a soccer field and tennis courts. Alma City Park has a paved walking path, playground, swimming pool and bandshell. Echo Cliff Park near Dover provides the perfect setting for picnicking and enjoying nature.

For more information about the Native Stone Scenic Byway, contact:

Abby Dechant
Wabaunsee County Economic Development
226 Missouri - PO Box 5
Alma, Kansas 66401
785-765-4655
wcedc@embarqmail.com