Point of Rocks

Point of Rocks is a natural landmark along the Santa Fe Trail in Morton County, Kansas. The cliff face rises 275 feet (84 m) above the surrounding terrain and overlooks the north bank of the Cimarron River.

The site served as a critical navigation point for travelers on the Cimarron Route between 1821 and 1870. This landmark guided wagons and riders to the Middle Spring water source, an essential stop on their journey.

A monument placed by the Daughters of the American Revolution in 1914 marks the site's importance in the story of westward expansion. Visitors can see this memorial today and understand how the landmark guided people moving west.

Visitors can view the rocks and landscape from an overlook area with interpretative displays about the site. The 467-acre historic district is located about 7 miles north of Elkhart and is easily accessible by vehicle.

The Point of Rocks-Middle Spring Historic District preserves segments of the original Santa Fe Trail where visitors can see wheel ruts worn deep into the earth by hundreds of wagons. These grooves remain as physical evidence of decades of daily travel along this route.

Location: Kansas

Elevation above the sea: 1,078 m

GPS coordinates: 37.10390,-101.93900

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:40