Topeka: Fancy Creek Loop
Not even Dorothy would recognize the Flint Hills, where the prairie breaks from its flat-as-a-pancake routine on this 4.6-miler to photogenic outcrops.
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Mapped by Jonathan Conard
Trail Facts
- Distance: 7.5
Waypoints
FCL001
Location: 39.4366416931152, -96.7324829101562
Hike S from parking area. Prepare to share: This trail is popular with fat-tire fans. Watch for bikers on downhills and turns
FCL002
Location: 39.4343299865723, -96.7332763671875
Enjoy one of the few open views over the glassy blue waters of Tuttle Creek Reservoir (second-largest lake in the state)
FCL003
Location: 39.4345092773438, -96.7347869873047
Cross road in field; bend N into rock-laced woods, stepping over stream
FCL004
Location: 39.4352416992188, -96.7362518310547
Crumbling rock wall along trail. Route alternates between cedar stands and grassy patches as it rises to 1,260 ft.
FCL005
Location: 39.4399299621582, -96.740608215332
Bear R @ Y and walk through contorted limestone formations
FCL006
Location: 39.4387512207031, -96.7401123046875
Straight @ 3-way; curl along hilltop SSW
FCL007
Location: 39.4369087219238, -96.736701965332
Trail cuts through rock layers for a short stretch
FCL008
Location: 39.4377288818359, -96.7372131347656
Trail junction, option to take “Steep Downhill” as marked by trail sign, or continue on main trail.
FCL009
Location: 39.441520690918, -96.7373123168945
R @ 4-way, then R again @ Y; ahead, cross road and swing W
FCL010
Location: 39.4427299499512, -96.7383193969726
Cross piney ravine on wooden bridge
FCL011
Location: 39.444709777832, -96.734619140625
Cross road and head into woods, looking over to boat launch and reservoir
FCL012
Location: 39.441535949707, -96.7332763671875
Climb to 1,200-ft. contour line and follow this ridge-running section to close loop @ trailhead