Monument Rocks Natural Landmark — Attraction in Gove City

While driving cross country, we were looking for unusual places to see. Well, this was definitely unusual. We never knew that in the middle of the plains in Kansas there would be these massive rock formations that were once part of a 500 foot sea that separated the United States from Canada to the Gulf of Mexico 😳. The road leading to these rock formations was a deserted dirt road with nothing around for miles and miles. It seemed very sketchy, and I thought about turning around while imagining all the things that could go wrong. But, I’m so glad we didn’t! As the formations began to appear, I was in awe of their size, appearance and placement. How has this natural sedimentary rock formation lasted in the middle of nowhere for millions of years? It was definitely worth seeing! I’m surprised it isn’t more well known. We we’re the only people there except for one other couple that drove by. On our way out, we we’re pleasantly greeted by several donkeys and a pony. The rock formations sit on private property, and I want to thank the owners for offering this amazing...

Monument Rocks is truly a hidden gem in Kansas. I heard about Monument Rocks on the internet, and just had to stop through on the drive through Kansas -- I'm definitely glad I did!

Getting to Monument Rocks isn't too difficult, but be aware that the section of dirt road on the way into it can get fairly muddy if it's rained recently. On a clear day with good weather, I think just about any vehicle could navigate the road (albeit potentially uncomfortably depending on the state of the dirt). We went in an off-road ready truck and it was easy going, but there were crossovers and RVs that had pulled in as well.

Monument Rocks itself is a great experience and honestly reminded me of some locations like Zion and Arches National Parks -- except with way less people and you can get much closer to the spectacle! If you happen to be going near this area on I-70, I'd set aside 2 hours and deviate course a bit to check out...

We've been all over the southwest, have seen all the amazing red rock formations and arches of Utah and Arizona many times, and nothing compares to that. But to see this in western Kansas was pretty cool. Unexpected. It's definitely worth it if you're passing through, if you're interested in science and/or history, or if you live within a couple hours it's a fun day trip. Take water, snacks, there's nothing commercial around. It's on private property and the landowners kindly allow access.

I'm sure my photos look like everyone else's but I'll post them anyway. You can see cows grazing through the hole/arch. Plus one with me in it that my husband took to indicate the size...