The Best Hiking Trail in Oklahoma for Every Adventurer
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Oklahoma is a hiker's dream. With gorgeous hiking trails across the state, hiking enthusiasts have miles upon miles of trails packed with stunning views and gorgeous wildlife. From the rugged beauty of the Wichita Mountains to the serene landscapes of the Ouachita National Forest, Oklahoma offers diverse hiking experiences for all skill levels. Grab your hiking boots and hit the trails these next few summer months to explore the natural wonders and scenic vistas that await in the heart of the Sooner State.
The best hiking trails in Oklahoma
Ouachita National Recreation Trail: The Ouachita National Recreation Trail is a 223-mile-long hiking trail that weaves through the Ouachita Mountains of Oklahoma and Arkansas. It’s one of the best hiking trails for multiple-day backpacking trips but is excellent for beginners looking for a nature trail for a quick day hike as well.
Lake Hefner Trail: The Lake Hefner Trail can be found about 30 minutes outside the heart of downtown Oklahoma City. This 9.4-mile hiking loop is a perfect outdoor adventure for those of all skill levels. This loop trail is paved for the majority of its duration, making it a great biking trail as well.
Beaver Creek Blue Trail: If you’re looking for an easy, kid-friendly hiking trail, Beaver Creek is the trail for you. This trail is only about 1.5 miles long and can take less than 30 minutes to complete, with the caveat that it may take a little longer if you have young children with you. This trail tends not to be super busy, so you can enjoy the gorgeous scenery and recharge your batteries with the peaceful sounds of nature.
Charon’s Garden Trail: Filled with blooming wildflowers, stunning rock formations and captivating narrow canyons, Charon’s Garden Trail will transport you to another world. At the end of the hike, you get to enjoy a scenic overlook of a breathtaking summit. This trail is moderately challenging, and its beautiful scenery makes it a fan favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Broken Bow City Park: The paved trail through Broken Bow City Park is a great area for taking nature walks, fishing and bird watching. The trail is just shy of being a mile long, has essentially no elevation gain and is great for folks wanting to spend time outside without strenuous physical activity.
Bluff Creek Trail: Bluff Creek is a 3.8-mile unpaved trail found outside of OKC. This is an easy hike that is an excellent choice for mountain biking, hiking and trail running. If you want to get out and enjoy nature without driving too far out of the city, this is the hike for you. Hikers tend to enjoy this trail on dry days as it tends to get muddy after rain, making it a less enjoyable experience.
Turkey Mountain: The Turkey Mountain hiking trail is a moderately challenging, 4-mile hike that can be found just 10 minutes outside of Tulsa. This hike is perfect for hot summer days, as the trail is shaded with large trees. Enjoy the gorgeous forest views while you hike to the river at the end of the trail. Past hikers found that the trail can be muddy after rainfall, so make sure to bring proper footwear. This is a great trail for mountain bikers to enjoy as well, so remember to be aware of your surroundings as bikers and hikers enjoy the trail together.
Elk Mountain Trail: Located in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge in Indiahoma, Okla., this out-and-back route is considered a moderately challenging Oklahoma hiking trail. With an elevation gain of roughly 520 feet, this trail is a fan favorite among runners, so you’re likely to see other people on the trail. Dogs are welcome as long as they are leashed.
Black Mesa Trail: Black Mesa is a moderately challenging trail with views of impressive vistas and bustling wildlife. Hikers love how well-marked this trail is, making it easy to navigate. There is very little shade on this 9-mile hike, so bringing proper gear for sun protection and enough water is super important, especially during the summer. It’s recommended to start this hike early in the day, before 7 a.m., so you can avoid the hottest hours of the day while you’re out on the trail.
West Bison Trail: Located in the Chickasaw National Recreation Area near the Oklahoma/Texas border, the West Bison Pasture Loop is about two miles long making it a great choice for beginners wanting to spend time in a gorgeous wilderness area. Enjoy the beautiful bison habitats while you’re on this scenic hiking adventure. This hike is pet-friendly but may be difficult for strollers as they will need heavy-duty wheels, and to be carried at certain points throughout the hike.
Roman Nose Natural Springs Trail: This trail is a great summertime hike, as it's short and sweet, and you can enjoy a dip in the refreshing spring water to cool off from the summer heat. With its paved pathway, this trail is a great choice for families with strollers and those who use wheelchairs. If you want to enjoy a meditative day in nature, this trail isn’t particularly busy, so you're not likely to end up sharing it with many other people.
Coon Ridge Trail: Coon Ridge Trail is a great hike for beginners located in Robbers Cave State Park, in Latimer County, Okla. The landscape on this trail is covered with a beautiful pine forest and doesn’t have very much elevation gain. Finding your way through the hike is easy with how well-marked the trail is. It’s about two miles long and takes an average of 45 minutes to complete. For weekend nature getaway, Coon Ridge Trail is a popular campground for hiking and fishing.
Skyline Trail: Skyline Trail is one of the most challenging trails Oklahoma has to offer in terms of steep hills and declines, water crossings and length. Completing this 8.6-mile hike is certain to be a rewarding experience. Remember to bring snacks and keep a watchful eye for trail markers. This trail in Beavers Bend State Park's nature preserve is filled with beautiful views of the rivers and surrounding wildlife.
Turner Falls Park Hiking Trail: This is a moderately challenging, 3.5-mile hike in Davis, Okla. The views you’ll experience on the trail are nothing short of breathtaking. You’ll see waterfalls, ruins, caves and lush, green vegetation. Remember to leave your furry friends at home as dogs aren’t allowed on the trail.
The health benefits of spending time in nature
Spending time in nature brings numerous health benefits. One of the most studied health benefits of nature is that it reduces stress levels by calming the mind and lowering cortisol, the stress hormone. Fresh air and natural surroundings can also improve mood and mental well-being, lifting spirits and promoting relaxation.
Physical health benefits include increased physical activity, whether it's hiking, walking or simply being outdoors, which boosts cardiovascular fitness and strengthens muscles. Exposure to sunlight helps the body produce vitamin D, which is important for bone health and immune function.
Nature also enhances cognitive function, improving concentration and creativity. Being in green spaces can reduce feelings of fatigue and increase energy levels. Furthermore, connecting with nature fosters a sense of connection to the environment and promotes mindfulness. Whether it's a walk in the park, a hike in the woods or gardening in your backyard, spending time in nature is a natural prescription for overall health and well-being.
