pioneer bluffs

My wife and I recently discovered Pioneer Bluffs on a trip to the Flint Hills and really enjoyed it. It was the ranch home of the Rogler family for generations until it was recently turned into a non-profit center celebrating both the local ranch culture and the artistic appreciation of the prairie landscape and lifestyle. It seems like a recent undertaking but is already very interesting, incorporating information about the Rogler ranch and historical figures along with curating contemporary artists whose work is inspired by the surroundings. It makes for an interesting mix. If you are traveling down or up I-35 through Kansas and have a little extra time, take the Hwy. 177 Scenic Byway exit at Cassoday and head to Matfield Green about 15 min. away and Pioneer Bluffs is just a mile north of town on the highway. It makes such a nice place to take a break. The grounds are really lovely and there are picnic benches under the big trees for a nice lunch break. You can even walk down to the South Fork of the Cottonwood River and watch the fish swim about. it is kind of ridiculously pastoral and peaceful there. I'm sure we will go back to see what new art is being showcased, but I also look forward to just kicking back on the front porch again and day dreaming about another time.