Coronado Heights
Castle on the Prairie
State: Kansas
County: Saline County
Founded: 1880s
Abandoned: 1920s
Peak Population: 100
The original Swedish farming settlement around Coronado Heights is gone, but a WPA-built stone castle now crowns the hilltop. Legend says Coronado himself stood here in 1541 looking for gold.
Swedish Settlement
Swedish immigrants settled the surrounding area in the 1880s. The hill served as a landmark and gathering place.
WPA Castle
During the Depression, the WPA built a stone castle shelter on top. It's now a popular hiking destination.
Timeline
- 1880s - Settlement Swedish farmers arrived
- 1936 - Castle Built WPA constructed lookout
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Year-round
Difficulty: Easy
Time Needed: 1 hour
Quick Facts
- Legend says Coronado stood here in 1541
- WPA stone castle on hilltop
- Near Swedish town of Lindsborg
Location
Address: Coronado Heights, near Lindsborg, Kansas
Coordinates: 38.6683, -97.7167