Horsethief Canyon Trail – Kanopolis Sp

Distance: 3.0 miles Elevation Gain: 300 ft Difficulty: Moderate Type: Loop Surface: Dirt/Rock Activity: Hiking Best Season: Year-round Typical Time: 2-3 hours Fee: $5-8/vehicle Dogs: Yes, on leash Permit: No

Horsethief Canyon at Kanopolis State Park cuts through Dakota Sandstone exposing red, orange, and purple layered formations that create a dramatic canyon landscape unexpected in central Kansas. Outlaws historically used the canyon as a refuge and horse hideout, giving it the colorful name. Petroglyphs carved by Native American peoples decorate some canyon walls. The canyon walls reach 50 feet in sections with narrow passages requiring careful navigation between the sculptured sandstone pillars.