Stay in Colby, Explore the Wonders of Western Kansas
- Carson McLaughlin
- Jun 4
- 4 min read
When most travelers think about visiting western Kansas, they often picture a quick stop at one destination before moving on. But those who have made the journey know the truth: some of Kansas’ most breathtaking landscapes are spread across a wide stretch of prairie, making Colby the perfect home base for a full day of adventure.
Rather than rushing from attraction to attraction, staying overnight in Colby allows you to start your day refreshed, enjoy the journey at your own pace, and return to comfortable lodging, great dining options, and small-town hospitality after a day of exploring.
Start Your Morning in Colby
Wake up in Colby with a hot cup of coffee and breakfast before heading west into some of the most unique landscapes Kansas has to offer. Colby's location along Interstate 70 makes it an ideal launching point for travelers wanting to experience multiple iconic destinations in a single day.
Unlike larger cities where you spend hours navigating traffic, you'll be on the road and enjoying the scenery in minutes.
Monument Rocks: Kansas' Ancient Ocean Floor
One of the first stops on the journey should be the remarkable Monument Rocks. Rising dramatically from the prairie, these towering chalk formations are estimated to be more than 80 million years old and were formed when much of Kansas was covered by a prehistoric inland sea. The massive arches and spires create one of the most photographed natural landmarks in the state.
Whether you're capturing photos of the formations themselves or watching hawks soar overhead, Monument Rocks is the type of place that surprises first-time visitors and leaves a lasting impression.
Little Jerusalem: The Badlands of Kansas
Just a short drive away sits Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park, the largest exposed Niobrara Chalk formation in Kansas. Established as a state park in 2019, this rugged landscape features dramatic cliffs, winding ravines, and scenic overlooks that feel worlds away from what many people expect Kansas to look like.
The hiking trails provide stunning views while protecting the fragile chalk formations below. Keep your camera ready—visitors often spot wildlife ranging from hawks and songbirds to lizards and other prairie creatures.
Many travelers leave Little Jerusalem saying the same thing: "I can't believe this is Kansas."
Reach the Highest Point in Kansas
No western Kansas road trip is complete without visiting Mount Sunflower, the highest natural point in the state at just over 4,000 feet above sea level. While it may not be a mountain in the traditional sense, standing at the highest point in Kansas is a bucket-list experience for many travelers.
The site features a welcoming guestbook, whimsical art installations, and sweeping views that stretch across the High Plains toward Colorado. It's a peaceful reminder of just how vast and beautiful western Kansas can be.
Watch for Wildlife Along the Way
One of the unexpected highlights of this journey isn't necessarily a destination—it's everything in between.
As you travel the backroads of western Kansas, you'll likely encounter deer, pheasants, hawks, meadowlarks, prairie dogs, and countless other species that call the High Plains home. The wide-open landscapes create incredible opportunities for wildlife photography, especially during the early morning and evening hours.
If you've taken this trip yourself, your wildlife photos will help tell a story that many visitors never expect to find in Kansas.
Why Colby Makes the Perfect Basecamp
After spending the day hiking, photographing landscapes, and exploring western Kansas backroads, you can return to comfortable lodging, local restaurants, shopping, and all the conveniences travelers need before continuing their journey.
Instead of viewing Colby as simply a stop along I-70, consider it your headquarters for discovering some of the most remarkable natural attractions in the Midwest.
Plan Your Western Kansas Adventure
Some destinations are worth more than a quick detour.
Monument Rocks. Little Jerusalem. Mount Sunflower. Endless prairie vistas. Wildlife around every bend.
They're all waiting in western Kansas—and Colby is the perfect place to begin and end the adventure.
Stay the night, take your time, and discover why some of Kansas' most unforgettable experiences are found just beyond the horizon.
⚠️ Rattlesnake Awareness PSA ⚠️
As temperatures continue to warm up across northwest Kansas, rattlesnakes are becoming more active. Whether you're hiking, exploring local attractions, working outdoors, or enjoying the countryside, it's important to stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
Watch where you step, especially around rocks, tall grass, brush piles, and fence lines. Keep pets on a leash when exploring unfamiliar areas.
Never attempt to handle, approach, or disturb a snake.
If you hear a rattle, stop immediately, locate the snake if possible, and slowly back away. Wear closed-toe shoes or boots when walking in natural areas.
Remember, rattlesnakes play an important role in our ecosystem and typically prefer to avoid people. Most bites occur when a snake is surprised or feels threatened.
Stay safe while enjoying the beauty of western Kansas this summer, and always be mindful when exploring parks, trails, wildlife areas, and rural roadsides.