By Roger Bryson

The Boy Scouts of America define a hike as "a walk with a purpose." I suggest that to mean a walk with an objective in mind. One objective might be to search for waterfalls in Kansas.

"Waterfalls in Kansas?" you ask. That's right! But they may be active only during or right after a rainstorm. Any topographic map with its elevation contour lines will give clues as to where you might locate a waterfall. (Hint: Small drainage waterways with contour lines appearing close together are good possibilities.)

When you find an interesting waterfall, mark the location on your map to share with others. I am able to share with you the location of three good finds because I have done just that. There are three fine waterfalls at Quivera Scout Ranch in Chatauqua County. One is in the main drainage to Wildcat Coves on Murray Gill Lake, and two others are located in the Indian Springs area.

There will often be year-round water in the plunge pool of a waterfall. I know of some that never seem to go dry. They even hold sunfish the size of a hand and other small aquatic creatures. In fact, these wet areas will attract many birds and plant life not present in the surrounding dry areas.

If you go back in the winter, many of the waterfalls will photograph well--icicles may even be present! One of my favorite waterfalls is east of Beaumont, Kansas on the Otter Creek watershed.

Be sure to always take your camera. I remember the waterfall in the Box Canyon on the west extension for the Elk City trail. I saw it one time under ideal conditions, but I had forgotten my camera back in my truck. When will I be there again at just the right time? Some of these runoffs last but mere hours after a rain. I'd hazard a guess that there are hundreds, maybe thousands of rainy day waterfalls to be found and enjoyed. Do some research ahead of time. And when you see those rain clouds, find your camera and your hiking boots AND GET GOING--there is beauty to be explored.

Editor's note: I was in the very spot on the Elk River trail that Roger mentioned. There was a tremendous run-off of snow melt and I had my camera. Refer to the article entitled Two Hikes.

 These are the snow melt cascades on the Elk River Trail in the area mentioned by Roger in this article.