Standing high on a hill, Coronado Heights was created by the WPA in 1936 as a picnic and campground area and has been a favorite cross-country stop ever since. It was named for the Spanish explorer Francisco Vásquez de Coronado who supposedly came through this area in 1541 in search of gold. The remaining Dakota sandstone structures here are oddly unique and range from picnic tables and a fireplace to the famous "castle." Equally impressive is the 360-degree view of the Smoky Valley—square mile after square mile of cropland. Go to the castle roof for this top-of-the-world experience! The Heights is marvelous for kite flying, picnicking, or practicing yoga at sunrise. (NRHP) 8 Wonders of Kansas Geography