An Hour East Through the Smoky Hills
Great Bend sits at the big bend of the Arkansas River, and from there it's a scenic one-hour drive east through the Smoky Hills to reach our distillery in Marquette. The drive along KS-4 is quintessential Kansas — rolling hills, open prairie, and big sky country.
Getting Here from Great Bend
Take US-56 E to Lyons, then KS-14 N to KS-4 E toward Marquette. Alternatively, take KS-4 E directly if you're on the north side of Great Bend. The 65-mile drive is an easy, low-traffic route.
Along the Way
Stop in Lyons on your way to pick up our spirits at Johnson Retail Liquor — the nearest retailer to Great Bend that carries our lineup. Or wait until you arrive at the distillery to taste everything and shop our full selection.
No Distillery Competition for Miles
Great Bend residents have no craft distillery within 60 miles — Smoky Valley Distillery is your closest option for a genuine Kansas distillery experience. Our guided tours run 30-45 minutes and include tastings of all 10 spirits for just $10 per person.
Day Trip Itinerary
- Morning: Depart Great Bend, enjoy the scenic drive through the Smoky Hills
- Late Morning: Arrive in Marquette for a guided tour and tasting
- Lunch: Eat at a local Marquette restaurant
- Afternoon: Browse the retail shop, explore historic downtown Marquette
- Return: Head back to Great Bend with your favorite bottles