In the southeast quadrant of Kansas, where the state folds into itself just shy of the Oklahoma line, the land begins to shift. The wide-open plains give way to the Chautauqua Hills, a modest rise in elevation marked not by drama but by accumulation—of sandstone, of hardwood forests, of time. Here, the towns hold steady. They are not aspirational. They are actual.
Sedan sits in a shallow basin, stitched together by limestone storefronts and modest houses, none of them trying to impress. Peru is smaller still—just a grid of streets and a few public buildings, wrapped by tall grass and sky. These places do not ask for notice. And yet, in their restraint, they offer something increasingly uncommon: continuity.
Named for the Chautauqua people who once inhabited this region, the hills are not easily catalogued by tourism boards. They are textured, porous, and full of silences. In towns like Grenola, Cedar Vale, and Elk Falls, the distance between people is both spatial and intentional. These are not destinations in the modern sense. They are inhabited landscapes, shaped by routine and rural work—farming, ranching, maintenance of what is already here.
What follows is not a travel list. It is a survey of presence: 10 towns where seclusion isn’t a novelty but a condition of life. They persist in spite of abstraction, offering not escape, but a recalibration of scale.
10. Howard: Embracing Peace in the Hills
Howard, with an approximate population of just over 600 residents, is a picturesque town that embodies the tranquility of the Chautauqua Hills. Visitors can stroll along its charming main street, visit the historic Elk County Courthouse, or enjoy a picnic in one of its serene parks. The town thrives on agriculture, with local farms and ranches forming the backbone of the community.
Howard’s seclusion comes from its location amidst rolling hills and vast farmlands, far from the noise of busy highways and urban centers. This peaceful setting allows for star-filled nights and quiet days, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a slower pace of life. A hidden gem in Howard is the nearby irregular prairie mounds, a unique geological feature that adds to the area’s natural beauty.
Where is Howard?
Located in southeastern Kansas, Howard is nestled in Elk County within the heart of the Chautauqua Hills. Its seclusion is enhanced by the surrounding hills and woodlands that shield it from bustling nearby cities.
To reach Howard, you can take US Route 400, turning south onto Kansas Highway 99, which leads directly into town. The journey itself offers scenic views of Kansas’ rolling prairies, making the trip to this secluded haven a pleasant escape from the ordinary.
9. Elk City: Gateway to Natural Wonders
Elk City, home to approximately 300 residents, is a small town that serves as a tranquil gateway to some of Kansas’ most beautiful natural landscapes. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the nearby Elk City State Park, which offers hiking trails, fishing, and camping opportunities along the shores of Elk City Lake. The town’s economy is closely tied to agriculture and tourism, with local farms and the state’s natural attractions supporting its modest commerce.
Elk City’s seclusion is due in part to its location away from major highways, nestled within the Chautauqua Hills’ rolling terrain. This peaceful setting provides an abundance of wildlife sightings and serene natural vistas that few people get to experience. A hidden gem in Elk City is the Table Mound Hiking Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding hills.
Where is Elk City?
Elk City is situated in Montgomery County, southeast Kansas, quietly tucked away near the eastern edge of the Chautauqua Hills. Its seclusion is heightened by the surrounding forested hills and the absence of busy roads passing through town.
To reach Elk City, travelers can take US Highway 160, then venture north on smaller county roads that wind through scenic countryside. The journey to Elk City rewards visitors with a sense of peaceful isolation and a deep connection to the natural beauty of the area.
8. Peru: The Tiny Town Time Forgot
Peru, with a mere population of around 140 residents, is a quaint town that seems to be untouched by the passage of time.
Its quiet streets and historic buildings offer a glimpse into a simpler era, making it a peaceful retreat for those looking to disconnect. While there aren’t many commercial attractions, visitors can enjoy the charm of the old post office, and the town’s small park is perfect for a leisurely afternoon. The mainstay for locals is farming and ranching, industries that have sustained the community for generations.
Peru’s seclusion is underscored by its remote location and the surrounding open fields and woodlands, which provide a buffer from modern life’s hustle and bustle. A hidden gem is the annual community picnic, a tradition that brings together residents for food, stories, and camaraderie.
Where is Peru?
Nestled in Chautauqua County, Peru is located in southeastern Kansas, not far from the Oklahoma border. The town’s isolation is heightened by its distance from major roads and cities, lying quietly amidst expansive farmland and gentle hills.
To visit Peru, one can travel along US Highway 166, then head north on local roads that meander through the countryside. The journey to Peru feels like a step back in time, offering travelers a unique chance to experience the tranquility and simplicity of rural Kansas life.
7. Moline: The Quiet Town with a Swinging Bridge
Moline, boasting a population of about 370 people, is a serene town known for its historic swinging bridge—the oldest of its kind in Kansas. Visitors can cross the bridge over the Elk River and explore the Moline Heritage Museum, which showcases artifacts from the town’s rich past. The primary industries here include agriculture and small-scale manufacturing, sustaining the tight-knit community.
Moline’s seclusion comes from its tucked-away location in the Chautauqua Hills, surrounded by rolling landscapes and minimal traffic. The town’s tranquil environment and unique attractions make it a secluded gem worth discovering. An insider tip is to visit the nearby Wildcat Creek Waterfall, a secluded spot perfect for a peaceful picnic and some nature photography.
Where is Moline?
Located in Elk County, Moline sits along US Highway 160 in southeastern Kansas. Despite being on a highway, the town maintains a quiet atmosphere due to its small size and the surrounding rural area. The Chautauqua Hills’ terrain contributes to its sense of isolation, shielding it from the noise and crowds of larger cities.
Visitors can reach Moline by taking US Highway 160, enjoying scenic views of the Kansas countryside along the way. The town’s remote setting offers a peaceful respite, inviting travelers to slow down and appreciate the simpler things in life.
6. Longton: Serenity in the Prairie
With an estimated population of around 350 residents, Longton offers a serene escape amid Kansas’ vast prairies. The town provides open skies ideal for stargazing and peaceful prairie landscapes perfect for quiet reflection or leisurely walks. Agriculture dominates the local economy, with farming and ranching ingrained in the community’s way of life.
Longton’s sense of isolation stems from the endless expanses of prairie that surround it, creating a buffer from the outside world. This peaceful setting allows visitors and residents alike to experience the wide-open beauty of Kansas without the distractions of modern urban life. A local secret is the nearby Belvidere area, where you can find remnants of historic settlements and enjoy bird watching.
Where is Longton?
Situated in Elk County, southeast Kansas, Longton is positioned along Kansas Highway 47. Its secluded nature is accentuated by the miles of prairie that separate it from larger towns and cities.
Accessing Longton involves a scenic drive through rural Kansas, often without encountering much traffic, which enhances the feeling of stepping away from the hectic pace of daily life. The town’s location offers a tranquil retreat where the horizon stretches endlessly, and the simplicity of prairie life is at its finest.
5. Grenola: Hidden Heritage Amidst the Hills
Grenola, home to approximately 200 residents, is a small town rich in history and surrounded by rustic charm. Visitors can explore the Grenola Elevator Museum, housed in a historic grain elevator, offering insights into the town’s agricultural heritage. The community thrives on farming and ranching, maintaining traditions passed down through generations.
Grenola’s seclusion is due to its remote setting within the Chautauqua Hills, where rolling landscapes and sparse populations provide a peaceful atmosphere. This hidden heritage makes Grenola an ideal spot for history buffs and those seeking a quiet getaway. A little-known treasure is the scenic Flint Hills riding trails nearby, perfect for horseback riding and immersing oneself in nature.
Where is Grenola?
Nestled in Elk County, Grenola lies along Kansas Highway 99 in southeastern Kansas. The town’s isolation is enhanced by the surrounding hills and prairies that create a natural barrier from bustling urban centers.
To reach Grenola, travelers can take Highway 99, enjoying picturesque views of the Chautauqua Hills along the route. The journey offers glimpses of untouched landscapes, reinforcing the sense of stepping into a peaceful rural enclave where the pace of life is unhurried and the scenery is breathtaking.
4. Elk Falls: The Living Ghost Town
Elk Falls, with a population hovering around 100, proudly bills itself as the World’s Largest Living Ghost Town. Despite its small size, it offers a wealth of historic charm, including well-preserved buildings from the late 19th century. Visitors can enjoy the namesake Elk Falls waterfall and the scenic river that meanders through town.
While there aren’t significant industries, local artisans contribute to the community with pottery and crafts, especially during the annual Outhouse Tour event. Elk Falls’ seclusion is amplified by its rural setting and the quiet, almost ethereal atmosphere that permeates the town. A hidden gem is the Iron Bridge, a historic structure offering picturesque views of the surrounding countryside.
Where is Elk Falls?
Located in Elk County, Elk Falls sits peacefully off US Highway 160 in southeastern Kansas. Its remote location, away from busy roads and larger towns, contributes to its designation as a living ghost town.
To visit Elk Falls, take US Highway 160 and follow signs leading into the town; the journey winds through scenic, tree-lined roads that enhance the feeling of stepping back in time. The town’s secluded position amidst the Chautauqua Hills ensures a tranquil experience, far removed from the clamor of modern life.
3. Chautauqua: A Tranquil Escape by the Lake
Chautauqua, with a population of around 110 people, offers a serene retreat near the shores of Lake Chautauqua. The town’s quiet streets and friendly atmosphere make it an idyllic getaway spot. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and relaxing by the lake, while the surrounding hills provide ample opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing.
The main industries are agriculture and some small-scale tourism related to the lake’s recreational activities. Chautauqua’s seclusion is a result of its tucked-away location and the surrounding natural landscapes that create a peaceful buffer from the outside world. A hidden gem is the Chautauqua Springs, natural springs that were once famed for their supposed healing properties.
Where is Chautauqua?
Nestled in Chautauqua County, the town of Chautauqua is located in southeastern Kansas, close to the Oklahoma border. Its secluded nature is due to the surrounding hills and the proximity to Lake Chautauqua, which limits through traffic.
To reach Chautauqua, travelers can take US Highway 166 and then venture north on local roads that weave through picturesque countryside. The town’s remote setting provides a tranquil escape, offering visitors a chance to unwind amid the beauty of the Chautauqua Hills and the calming presence of the lake.
2. Cedar Vale: Nature’s Sanctuary
Cedar Vale, home to approximately 550 residents, is a haven of serene landscapes and abundant wildlife. The town is nestled among rolling hills and cedar groves, offering natural beauty at every turn. Outdoor activities include bird watching, hiking the nearby trails, and exploring the scenic Caney River that flows nearby.
The economy is primarily based on agriculture, with local farms and ranches playing a significant role in community life. Cedar Vale’s seclusion is enhanced by the vast stretches of nature that surround it, providing a sanctuary for both wildlife and those seeking peace. A hidden gem is the historic Hewins Park Pavilion, a charming spot for picnics and community events.
Where is Cedar Vale?
Located in Chautauqua County, Cedar Vale sits in southeastern Kansas, not far from the Oklahoma state line. The town’s sense of isolation comes from its setting amid the Chautauqua Hills and the absence of major highways cutting through the area.
To get to Cedar Vale, travelers can take US Highway 166 and then proceed north, following smaller roads that meander through beautiful natural landscapes. The remote location offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in nature’s tranquility, far removed from the stresses of urban environments.
1. Sedan: The Heartbeat of Chautauqua Hills
Sedan, the largest town on our list with a population of about 1,100, serves as a vibrant hub in the Chautauqua Hills region. Visitors can explore the charming historic downtown, featuring unique shops, antique stores, and the famous Yellow Brick Road made of engraved bricks that winds through the heart of the city. T
he Emmett Kelly Museum pays tribute to the famed circus clown who hailed from Sedan, adding to the town’s cultural offerings. The community thrives on a mix of agriculture, small businesses, and tourism drawn by its historic charm.
Sedan’s seclusion is attributed to its location amidst the rolling hills and the lack of major commercial development, preserving its small-town atmosphere. A hidden gem is the Hollow Park, with its natural spring and tranquil walking paths perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
Where is Sedan?
Nestled in Chautauqua County, Sedan is situated in southeastern Kansas along US Highway 166. While it is more accessible than some of the other towns on this list, its rural surroundings and the enveloping Chautauqua Hills provide a sense of peaceful isolation.
Travelers can reach Sedan via US Highway 166, enjoying scenic views of the countryside en route. The town’s location offers a perfect balance—secluded enough to provide tranquility, yet connected enough to welcome visitors with open arms and a touch of small-town hospitality.
