Willa Cather Memorial Prairie

A botanical treasure of 612 acres of native Nebraska prairie, the Willa Cather Memorial Prairie has almost 2 miles of walking and hiking trails open to the public. Enjoy areas with native flora and fauna, including wildflowers, and take in the scenic beauty of the landscape in all seasons. The prairie is home to many birds, including meadowlarks, upland sandpipers, wood ducks, blue-winged teals, blue birds, assorted sparrows, grouse, turkeys, orchard orioles and more. This is an excellent location to view incomparable prairie sunrises and sunsets or for dark-sky stargazing. Stop by the National Willa Cather Center in Red Cloud to borrow a free "Prairie Exploration Backpack" for your adventures, complete with wildlife guides, drawing paper, and binoculars—and pack a picnic! Located five miles south of Red Cloud on Highway 281 on the Kansas border. Free to the public and always open. In partnership with Great Plains Ecotourism Coalition. Guided tours also available—call 402-746-2653.