A little prep makes for a better day on the prairie.
Maxwell is wide-open tallgrass prairie, and the weather can change in a hurry. A few simple things — water, sun protection, and the right shoes — go a long way toward a comfortable, memorable tram tour with the bison and elk. Here is everything to know before you arrive.
Tickets & tour schedule.
Public tram tours run on scheduled dates, most often morning tours between 9 AM and noon. Tours often fill up, so booking online in advance is strongly recommended. Check the tour calendar for current dates and available times.
- Adults (age 12+): $15.00 per person. Reservations are required — same-day tickets may be available if seats remain, but tram tours frequently fill up in advance.
- Children ages 4–11: $7.50 per child. Children under 3 ride free. All children must be accompanied by a supervising adult and remain seated on the tram at all times.
- Group & school rates: discounted per-person rates are available for school groups, youth organizations, and large parties. Contact us directly for current group pricing.
- Tour duration: approximately 45–60 minutes depending on weather and where the bison and elk herds are located on the prairie.
- Self-guided access: the public road through the refuge to McPherson State Fishing Lake is generally open daily unless closed for weather or maintenance — no ticket required for a drive-through.
What to bring
Pack for an open-air prairie tour.
The tram is open-air and most of your visit is outdoors, so come prepared for sun, wind, and changing weather. Here are the essentials we recommend for every guest.
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. There is little shade on the open prairie.
Water
Bring a filled water bottle, especially in the warmer months — it can get hot and breezy out on the grassland.
Layers
A light jacket or windbreaker. Mornings and evenings cool off quickly and the wind rarely takes a break.
Binoculars
Great for watching bison and elk and spotting birds and wildflowers from a respectful distance.
Closed-toe shoes
Comfortable, closed shoes are best for boarding the tram and walking around the Tour Center.
Camera
You will get close to bison and elk on native prairie — bring a camera or phone for photos.
What to expect
How a tram tour unfolds.
Tours are guided, relaxed, and family-friendly. Here is the day from check-in to your last glimpse of bison on the prairie.
Arrive & check in
Arrive 15–20 minutes before your tram time and check in at the Tour Center. Restrooms and displays are right there.
Board the tram
Find a seat on the open-air tram. Your guide will cover a few safety basics before you roll out onto the prairie.
Out on the prairie
A 45–60 minute ride takes you into the heart of the herds, with commentary on bison, elk, and prairie life. Duration varies with weather and where the animals are grazing.
Wrap up
Back at the Tour Center, browse the gift shop, ask your guide questions, and stretch your legs before you head home.
The prairie sets the pace.
Maxwell sits on open Kansas grassland with sun, wind, and wide skies in every direction. Dressing for the day and keeping an eye on the forecast makes all the difference.
- Dress for the season: hot and breezy in summer, cool and windy in spring and fall — layers let you stay comfortable either way.
- Sun and wind are constant: there is little natural shade, and the wind rarely stops. Sunscreen and a secure hat are your friends.
- Severe weather may change plans: tours may be postponed or rescheduled in cases of severe weather or unsafe road conditions. We will contact you using the details from your reservation.
- Tours run rain or shine otherwise: a little light weather will not stop the tram, so plan accordingly and bring a jacket just in case.
Accessibility & mobility needs
Tell us when you reserve and we will help with boarding, seating, and any accommodations to make your tour comfortable.
Tips
Visiting with kids or a group?
A prairie tour is a wonderful outing for families, school groups, churches, and clubs. A few extra notes help everyone have a smooth, memorable day.
Bringing kids
Pack water and snacks, plan a restroom stop before boarding, and bring binoculars to keep young explorers engaged. Children must stay seated and supervised on the tram.
Coming as a group
Arrive early so everyone can use restrooms and board together on time. For larger parties, reserve ahead and let us know your group size so we can plan seating.
Photographers
Bring a zoom lens or binoculars for close-up views and keep a safe distance from wildlife. Early and late light on the prairie is hard to beat.
Make a day of it
Maxwell sits beside McPherson State Fishing Lake, so you can pair your tram tour with a picnic or time by the water nearby.
On the refuge
Rules & etiquette
These simple guidelines keep visitors safe and protect the bison, elk, and prairie that make Maxwell special. Need clarification? Ask a staff member on-site or contact us before you visit.
Stay seated on the tram
Remain seated on the tram at all times while it is moving. The bison and elk are wild animals, and staying on the tram keeps both you and the herds safe.
Do not feed or approach the wildlife
Please do not feed, touch, or approach any animals. Enjoy them from the comfort of your seat and use binoculars or a zoom lens for close-up views.
Wildlife has the right of way
In wildlife areas, give the bison and elk plenty of space and let them set the pace. Stay inside your vehicle or on the tram, and never position yourself between animals.
Stay on marked roads and trails
On foot or by vehicle, stay on designated roads, trails, and parking areas only. This protects fragile prairie habitat and keeps everyone safe.
No drones
Drones are not permitted — they disturb wildlife and can create unsafe situations for the herds and for other guests.
Follow staff instructions
Follow refuge safety rules and the directions of staff and guides at all times. Report any unsafe behavior or hazards to refuge staff immediately.
No pets
Pets are not permitted on the refuge. Service animals are welcome — please let staff know on arrival.
No smoking or open flames
Smoking, vaping, and open flames (including campfires) are not permitted anywhere on the refuge due to fire risk on the dry Kansas prairie.
No alcohol or disruptive behavior
Alcohol, illegal substances, loud music, and disruptive behavior are not permitted on the refuge. Help keep the experience calm for the wildlife and enjoyable for every visitor.
Keep the prairie wild
Leave no trace: pack out what you bring in, and leave plants, rocks, antlers, and wildlife exactly as you found them. Hunting or pursuing wildlife, harvesting natural materials, and traveling off marked routes are not permitted.
Flash photography
Flash photography is discouraged around bison and elk — it can stress the animals. Zoom lenses and binoculars give you excellent close-up views without disturbing the herds.
Where to find us
