Kansas: “Mount” Sunflower

4,039 (1,231 m)

Despite the name, Mount Sunflower is more prairie than peak—but at 4,039 feet (1,231 meters), it’s still the highest point in Kansas. Located in the far western corner of the state near the Colorado border, this gentle rise is surrounded by farmland, big skies, and the subtle beauty of the Great Plains. A dirt road leads directly to the summit marker where visitors will find a metal sunflower sculpture, picnic table, and guest register, all set against a wide-open horizon. There’s no climb, no trail, and no trees in sight—but that’s the landscape you’ll find near Kanorado. Without even resembling a mound, Mount Sunflower still delivers a quiet reminder that even the flattest states have a high point worth exploring.

If anyone ever proposes a name change for Kansas, “Sunflower Rise” might be a more honest fit—leaving “Mount” for real mountains.

More to come…

In the meantime, be weary of the weather when visiting this state highpoint.