Kansas Wagon Train Weekend Trip from El Dorado

Kansas Wagon Train Weekend Trip from El Dorado -- WAGONS HO! PIONEERS WANTED! Enjoy the simplicity of frontier life for a weekend. Since 1979 our Wagon Train has provided authentic covered wagon trips through the scenic Kansas Flint Hills, an untouched part of the historic American Tallgrass Prairie. Weekend pioneers relive experiences of those who joined the great Westward Movement in the mid-19th Century.

"My children and I have just returned from one of the most memorable and enjoyable experiences we have ever had...a trip on the your Wagon Train. From the initial meeting to the return, we have nothing but praise for the organization, good food, entertainment and good company we found. You can be assured we will tell everyone we know that this trip is one not to have missed." - Patricia J., Topeka, Kansas.

The Journey

The experience being promptly at 9:30 am Saturday. After an introductory briefing, personal vehicles will join in an escorted caravan, (approximately 7 miles) to where our journey will depart. Vehicles will be parked at the ranch overnight. Camping gear and luggage will be transported to the overnight campsite independently of the wagon train. More detailed instructions and a map will be sent with your confirmation details after you book this tour.

Meals

A light chuck wagon lunch will be served trail side at noon. At the campground, pioneer-stype stews, breads, desserts and fixin's make up the evening meal and Sunday morning breakfast is stick-to-the-ribs fare. Special dietary needs may be accommodated with a two-week advance notice.

Attire

Western wear, period costume or hiking garb are recommended. Comfortable boots or shoes are important, a hat is a necessity and it is advisable to carry a light jacket or poncho. Have at least one change of clothing. Light weight garb that can be layered is a wise choice. Passengers should bring raincoats and boots in all cases. Shorts are not advisable.

Sleeping Arrangements

You will be camping out and will be expected to bring your own sleeping bags, bedrolls, tents, cots or anything you desire for comfortable sleeping. A limited number of passengers may sleep in the wagons so space should be reserved early.

Physical Activity

The trip is slow-paced, about 2.5 miles per hour. Most guests alternate riding in a wagon with walking. Adults of all ages find the pace leisurely and relaxing and children rejoice in the freedom of the prairie. Guests may be required to walk when the wagons ascend or descend steep slopes and guests should never occupy the wagons at times when the driver is not in place on his seat on the wagon, for reasons of safety. Those persons with physical disabilities that would make it dangerous to ride in a wooden wheel covered wagon or those who need regular medication or special diets are not encouraged to make this trip.

Instructions will be given at the start of the trip concerning precautions to be used around the campsite, wagons, and domestic animals. Under Kansas Law, there is no liability for the injury or death of a participant in domestic animal activities (Sec 1-4 of the Kansas Domestic Animal Activity Liability Act). You are assuming the risk of participating in this domestic animal activity.

Restroom Facilities

Basic, old-fashioned toilet and wash-up facilities are strategically located along the trail for guests' privacy and comfort.

For personal safety and to protect our environment:

Adult passengers are responsible at all times for the safety, whereabouts and conduct of children in their care. Use of fireworks or firearms is prohibited. Portable radios, electronic games and the like are discouraged, Smoking, due to the danger of pasture fires, is restricted to trail side stops and the overnight campground where butt buckets are provided. Alcholic beverages are prohibited. Coolers and carbonated beverages are discouraged in an effort to lend to the authenticity of the trip. A variety of old-time beverages are available and with plenty of water. Bare feet are not allowed on the trail or in the campground. There is no set curfew, but it should be kept in mind that the camp will be "waking up" and people will be stirring as early as 5:30 or 6:00 in the morning, so early retirement is recommended.

Weather

Scheduled trips will proceed in all but severe weather. Be prepared to keep dry and warm and rain gear is essential. The crew constantly monitors weather conditions and seeks shelter and safety as necessary.

Schedule

2006 Dates:
June 17 & 18
June 24 & 25
July 15 & 16
Sept 9 & 10
Oct 7 & 8

2007 Dates:
June 9 & 10
June 23 & 24
July 14 & 15
Sept 8 & 9

WE'RE PIONEER STOCK!

The folks who will be your guides along the Kansas prairie are some of the nicest, most down-to-earth people you'll ever meet. They come from good Kansas stock that goes back years and years, and their families go all the way back to the original Kansas pioneers in some cases.

THE WAGON MASTER:

He keeps everything rolling smoothly. When he says jump, you'd better ask "How high?" because he's the leader of the excursion and he's got your safety foremost in his mind.

THE DRIVERS:

You sure wouldn't want anyone else holding the reins of your team and keeping a sharp eye out for rattlers!

THE COOK:

The chief cook for the wagon train is a lot prettier than the wagon train cooks you see in the movies, and her cookin' is a heap better!

THE SINGERS:

Entertainment is the order of the evening -- if you can stay awake after gettin' your belly full of the cook's stew and beans. The coffee may help, but be sure to ask the cook if she washed the sock before she filled it full of the coffee grounds!

THE STORYTELLERS:

These guys will have you rolling between the shepherds wagons if you're not careful. Nothing but wholesome entertainment suitable for the whole family, though, so keep those trail-hand stories to yourselves while the kids are awake!

This tour does not include hotel pick ups. Reservations need to be made at least 21 days in advance. Child rates apply to ages 4 to 12. Children under the age of 4 are free. Please reserve online, or call us toll-free at 888-653-9142.