Once much larger, Castle Rock has been whittled away by wind and rain erosion and by vandals. During the late 1860s it was a landmark on the Butterfield Overland Despatch route (Smoky Hill Trail), and travelers once passed by here on their way to the Colorado gold fields. From Castle Rock continue slowly northward along the rutted road to the "badlands." Note that some ruts may force you to turn back. You'll see piles of chalk residue resulting from the deterioration and the ever-changing nature of these prairie sentinels. Climbing is not advisable as the rock formations are very soft and will break off easily. And please do not quarry any rock; the weather is hard enough on these natural monoliths. Private property. 8 Wonders of Kansas

Photos taken by Harland Schuster for the 8 Wonders of Kansas, a project of the Kansas Sampler Foundation