Day Two - Dodge City

Cattle Feedlot Overlook

A view of the cattle industry today, one of the largest operations in Southwest Kansas. The feedlot is located two and a half miles east of Dodge City on Wyatt Earp Boulevard/Highway 283.

Old Fort Dodge & Fort Dodge Cemetery

Five miles east of Dodge City on Highway 400 is the site of Old Fort Dodge, founded to help protect a long section of the Santa Fe Trail. It served as a supply post and base of operation against the warring Indians from 1865 to 1882. It was removed from service in 1882 and now serves as a Kansas State Soldier’s Home. Several original buildings remain, including the commanding officer’s quarters, enlisted men’s barracks, and the post hospital. All the structures were built of limestone quarried north of Dodge City by civilians and soldiers.

Both civilians and soldiers were buried in the military cemetery. The saying was “the rich are buried at the Fort and the cowhands and unknown were buried on Boot Hill or gone to hell.” A self-guided storyboard tour of the grounds is available. There is also a small museum and library. The grounds are closed some holidays. Admission is free and the grounds are handicap accessible. For more information please call (620) 227-2121.

Coronado Cross

The Coronado Cross marks the spot where Francisco Vasquez de Coronado, a Spanish explorer, is said to have crossed the Arkansas River in search of the fabled “Seven Cities of Gold” in 1541. This location is just one mile east from Fort Dodge on Highway 400. Coronado Cross is a short drive nine miles east of Dodge City.

Santa Fe Trail Tracks

Tracks of the original wagon trail used by pioneers from 1821 to the 1880s are located nine miles west of town. There is a nice overlook and a trail down to the tracks. You can stand on a bridge over the tracks and get a close view of one of the most visible tracks left from this historic trail. The area is listed on the National Register of Historic Sites.

Lunch Break: Check out the many dining options available in Dodge City.

Spend an afternoon in the outdoors. Optional afternoon activities are described below. 

Dodge City Parks

Enjoy an outing at any of Dodge City's many family parks, bicycle and pedestrian trails, or take in a game at Legends Field or at the soccer complex.

Mariah Hills Golf Course

Mariah Hills has almost everything a golfer needs from a bright and spacious clubhouse to a professionally manicured course. Rolling bluegrass fairways and bent grass greens set against the native beauty of the high plains provide a fun yet challenging experience. Mariah Hills offers a full service pro-shop, Class A golf professional, driving range and putting green, private lessons, and much more! The course is located at 1800 Matt Down Lane. For more information call (620) 225-8182.