Butcher Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.1 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Butcher Falls
Butcher Falls sits on the Red Buffalo Ranch just outside Sedan, Kansas, where a wide cascade spills over a rocky ledge into a tranquil pool set against rolling prairie. The broad, photogenic drop and the open, natural surroundings make it one of the state's most picturesque waterfall spots and a rewarding short escape from nearby towns. The falls are reached by an out-and-back approach of about 2.4 miles, with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating — short enough for a half-day outing but with some steady uphill sections. The walking route is unpaved and generally well-maintained; the nearest developed campground (Wa-Sha-She West) is roughly 28.9 km away, so plan supplies and timing accordingly.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Out-and-back trail, approximately 2.4 miles total with about 350 feet of elevation gain; rated moderate. The path is unpaved but generally well-maintained, with a mix of packed dirt and occasional rocky tread and a steady grade in places. Suitable for hikers comfortable with moderate uphill sections; no technical climbing is required.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil and scenic experience at Butcher Falls. The waterfall flows over a wide rock ledge into a calm pool, surrounded by native Kansas prairie. The area is peaceful and ideal for photography or quiet reflection.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Butcher Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fees are required
Permit required
Access to Butcher Falls requires prior permission from the Red Buffalo Ranch. Contact them to arrange your visit.
🏊 Is There Swimming at Butcher Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall is typically more active due to seasonal rainfall. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter may provide a unique view if the falls are partially frozen.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The rocks around the waterfall can be slippery, especially after rain. Exercise caution near the edge of the falls. Always respect private property rules and guidelines.
Current Water Conditions
1 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 87 years of record
1.36 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge CANEY R NR ELGIN, KS (17 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
1 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
1 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
1 cfs
5/10Thu
Low
1 cfs
3/10Fri
Low
1 cfs
3/10Sat
Low
1 cfs
4/10Sun
Barely Flowing
1 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, mostly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid March to mid June, peaking in May.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Sedan hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
1-meter lidar shows the creek losing roughly 39 feet through Butcher Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 851 feet.
The ground changes about 35 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 26 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northeast and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 851 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 39 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Butcher Falls is located on private property at the Red Buffalo Ranch. Visitors must contact the ranch in advance to arrange access. The falls are a short drive from Sedan, Kansas, and directions are typically provided upon reservation.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the falls, but it is limited and may require prior arrangements with the ranch.
Elevation
853 feet above sea level
Coordinates
37.147269° N, -96.268051° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Contact the Red Buffalo Ranch in advance to confirm access and directions. Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be uneven. Bring water and a camera to capture the beautiful scenery.
Where to Stay
Super 8 by Wyndham Independence KS
Microtel Inn and Suites Independence
Apple Tree Inn
Comfort Inn & Suites - Independence
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
Wa-Sha-She West
18 miles away · 0 sites
This recreation area is part of Hulah Lake
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
The town of Sedan offers charming shops and restaurants. The Red Buffalo Ranch also features other scenic areas and trails.
Wildlife
The area around Butcher Falls is home to native Kansas wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals.
Cities near Butcher Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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