We are officially two whole weeks into this road trip as of today – and we made it to Canada; British Columbia, to be exact. We’re into our final week of driving, and this is the big one. This is the one where we’ll hit the AlCan highway and make our way into Alaska. This whole journey has been incredible though, and I want to write it all down before I forget it in the midst of all the adventures we’re on right here and now. We took a short stop for a couple of days in Augusta, Kansas, and we spent a day exploring the Flint Hills of Kansas with our friends – something we won’t soon forget.
Exploring the Flint Hills of Kansas
From the start of our planning, we knew we’d stop in Augusta, Kansas. One of Ryan’s best friends lives there (remember when we visited them in Colorado in 2021?), and we really wanted to take the time to see them and get our bearings before continuing the mad dash across the United States. And yes, it was worth every single moment.
I’ve actually never been to Kansas, but Ryan’s buddy is from Kansas, so having the opportunity to rest and recoup on their farm and then see Kansas through their eyes was such a treat. It was HOT when we were there, intermittently stormy, and absolutely perfect. The kids explored the property, shot guns, and swam in the pool and hot tub until they shriveled up. The exciting part for me though, was that Jack had planned to spend an afternoon exploring the Flint Hills of Kansas, knowing I’d love to get it on camera. I mean…amazing, right?
Where We Went in the Flint Hills Area
Jack and Linda took us on a winding tour through the Flint Hills, and we got to explore a few things. First up, we visited one of the original bridges near their home that’s since been replaced, but the original structure still stands. Viewing the creek below and crossing those rickety boards was so cool.
We also visited Beaumont, a tiny town that had a reported population of 36 in 2020. When I say it’s tiny, I mean it. We treated the kids to a snack of fries and pop at the Beaumont Hotel, then we continued on to see one of the original old one-room school houses in Butler County. Located on private land surrounded by endless rolling fields and cows in every direction, it was a sight to see. I never imagined the area had as much history as it does, but it was gorgeous.
I made a promise to myself on this trip that, despite the convenience of my phone, I’d make a point of pulling out my camera and capturing as much of the journey as possible, and I’d be lying if I said the Flint Hills of Kansas didn’t imprint themselves on our hearts. This was definitely an adventure we won’t soon forget!
We’re heading into the land of lack of service for the next week, so (likely) until Alaska – we bid y’all adieu.
