FIRST HILL IN KANSAS (nr Wathena KS)
Just after Bellemont Landing came this uphill stretch. It likely began at extreme left up through the center. Here, unlike later on the dusty plains, being behind other wagons would have been a plus. Perhaps they would have cleared the way, making a workable path.
While KS gets stereotyped as "flat" this section on the St Joe Road is actually very hilly.