Pawnee Rock State Historic Site

Pawnee Rock marked the halfway point on the Santa Fe Trail.

NPS Photo/Celeste

Quick Facts

Location:

Pawnee Rock, Kansas

Significance:

Landmark on the Santa Fe Trail

Designation:

State Historic Site; Certified Site

MANAGED BY:

Kansas State Historical Society

Pawnee Rock State Historic Site is 16 miles east of Fort Larned. This sandstone outcropping was a well-known land mark on the Santa Fe Trail. Not only did it let travelers on the trail know they were following the correct route, it was also the halfway point on the trail. 

Site Information

Location (Pawnee Rock, Kansas)

Safety Considerations

More Site Information

Santa Fe National Historic Trail

Duration:

1 minute, 58 seconds

Rising fifty to sixty feet above the surrounding terrain, Pawnee Rock served as an important landmark for travelers on the Santa Fe Trail, marking the halfway point of the long journey. This Kansas State Historic Site invites visitors to stand atop the pavilion for a 360-degree view of the Arkansas River Valley, read exhibits about the area’s significance, and enjoy a picnic at a covered table. Visit go.nps.gov/PawneeRock to learn more.

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