Bus tours of Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve began this weekend and will last through October.

The tour, 6.4 miles long, is narrated by the National Park Service and offers information on plant and animal life, American Indian history and ranching in the 1800s, as well as the opportunity to take in views of the Flint Hills. Buses depart every day at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. from the ranch house on the preserve in Cottonwood Falls.The half-hour tour costs $5 for adults, $3 for children 5 to 18. There is no charge for younger children.

Reservations, which are recommended but not required, can be arranged by sending an e-mail to tapr_interpretation@nps.gov or by calling (620) 273-8494.