Friends of the River Foundation and the Smoky Hill Museum are partnering to bring guided walks spotlighting the Smoky Hill River’s history as it winds through the heart of Salina.

The organizations invite those interested to walk with them as Salina’s past comes to life through photos, maps, stories, surprises, laughter, and more.

According to the museum, when  research is complete, seven different history walks will be offered featuring seven different sections of the river.

Registration is only on the Smoky Hill Museum website. It opens May 1stbby 9 am.  Maximum of 30 participants per walk. More info about where to meet will be given after registration.

The walks will include:

Iron Avenue: Salina’s Beginnings

Walk in the footsteps of Salina’s founders as we explore how the Smoky Hill River was integral to our city’s founding. Curving along the eastern edge of downtown, the river has seen everything from the first house to ferries, trains, mayhem, movies, and more. Come discover Salina’s early history with us. (Walk will take us along Iron Avenue and through Founders Park.)

Date: May 30, 2026         Time: 9:30-10:45 am

Oakdale Park: The Heart of Community

Discover the history of Salina’s beloved Oakdale Park, hugged on three sides by the Smoky Hill River. Explore how Salina made this bend in the river its community gathering spot, from horse racing to boating to the Smoky Hill River Festival. We’ll also touch on the adjacent South Park, a mostly forgotten park that once hosted schools, a pond, and a band shell. Learn how these parks played a vital role in Salina’s recreational and arts history. (Walk will take us around Oakdale Park.)

Date: June 6, 2026           Time: 9:30-10:45 am

Indian Rock Park: Battles, Bricks, and Beauty*

Hike Salina’s most rugged natural area as we investigate the forces that shaped this park. Its natural beauty masks the many drastic changes the land itself has experienced. We’ll unearth a rich history that includes American Indian grounds, industries, and recreation. We’ll also discover how the Smoky Hill River was moved, cutting the park in half. The hike  will take participants on very uneven ground throughout Indian Rock Park, including rocks, woods, and prairie. It is not  recommended for those with mobility or balance issues. A talk presenting this information will be given at a later date, allowing those unable to hike the opportunity to discover this area’s history.

Date: June 27, 2026         Time: 9:00-10:45 am

Bonus Walk: River Festival: Oakdale Celebrations

Add to the party with a dive into what made this park THE place for celebrations in Salina. Discover fairs, horse and bicycle races, Chautauquas, camping, and more. This walk is a featurette of our Oakdale Park walk, sharing some but not all of its discoveries. No registration required. Must purchase entry to the Smoky Hill River Festival. Meet at Mulberry Ave. bridge.)

                Date: June 14, 2026         Time: 1-1:45 pm