The day begins in McPherson at the intersection of Main & 1st.

The stage concludes in Council Grove at the Last Chance Store.

This is a long stage that benefits from a series of welcoming communities along the way, as it zigzags along backroads towards Council Grove. After skirting the northern edge of Galva and looping around Lake McPherson, we reach the day's first major highlight:

Event - Maxwell Wildlife Refuge

We're thrilled to be welcomed in at Maxwell Wildlife Refuge for a quick visit, as it offers a glimpse of the past: American bison wandering freely across the prairie.

From there, we push eastward into the town of Durham, before weaving north and east through Tampa and Ramona, en route to Herington, the biggest stop on the day's itinerary. Load up, because from there it's a 23-mile push due east along US Route 56. We've got two treats waiting for us, though... First is Donald R. Johnson, who will be escorting us into Council Grove with his horse and buggy! And then... 

Event - Last Chance Store - Council Grove

We're grateful to Mark Brooks and his team at the Kaw Mission and Last Chance Store State Historic Site for organizing a special visit to the Last Chance Store for relay participants. As the name implies, this was the "last chance" for pioneers on the Santa Fe Trail to do some essential shopping, loading up on beans, bacon, and whiskey before leaving civilization behind. Fortunately, we have a wider array of dining options available to us in Council Grove, including the historic Hays House Restaurant & Tavern, which dates to 1857!

Support: A support vehicle will be accessible at Maxwell Wildlife Refuge (19.3 miles), Durham (32.7 miles), Ramona (49.4 miles), Herington (57.8 miles), and US 56 and S 2300 Rd (71 miles). Water will be available to top off bottles, along with all necessary participant gear. 

Take Heed: US 56, from Herington to Council Grove, is a narrow country highway with limited shoulder.