Hiking trails in Oklahoma: Explore nature's beauty
Whether you're an expert hiker or a recreational enthusiast, Oklahoma offers outdoor recreation areas for every skill level. State parks across the region boast thousands of miles of trails, leading you through towering pines, rocky ridges and wide-open prairie lands.
From the granite boulders of the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge to the wetland habitats of southeast Oklahoma, there's a trail for every preference. Lace up your hiking boots, grab a water bottle and embark on an adventure through woodlands, wildflower meadows and rippling creeks. It's time to experience the beauty of Oklahoma's hiking trails.
We broke down the list TravelOK put together from beginner to expert level trails.
Beginner trails
Martin Park Nature Center — Oklahoma City, OK
- 140-acre wildlife sanctuary and educational facility
- Four gravel-lined trails under one mile in length
- Great for bird and wildlife viewing
- Suitable for casual hikers and walkers
Oxley Nature Center — Tulsa, OK
- Nearly 11 miles of diverse trails inside Mohawk Park
- Various habitats, including prairie, marsh and forest
- Trails range from a half-mile to one mile in length
- Opportunity for bird-watching and sensory-awareness experiences
Chickasaw National Recreation Area — Sulphur, OK
- Ecologically unique area with transition zone between forest and prairie
- Over 30 miles of trails at Rock Creek Multi-Use Trails
- Diverse habitats and levels of difficulty for hikers
- Notable for mineral springs, clear streams and abundant wildlife
Intermediate trails
McGee Creek Natural Scenic Recreation Area — Atoka, OK
- 8,900-acre preserve with over 30 miles of varied trails
- Ranges from easy one-mile nature trail to more challenging rocky and pine-covered paths
- Ideal for hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking
- Best visited in spring or fall for moderate temperatures
- Diverse wildlife and pine forest setting
Robbers Cave State Park Trails — Wilburton, OK
- Scenic trails totaling 12 miles, including the moderately difficult Rough Canyon Trail
- Primitive, hilly, and semi-rugged terrain with rocky features and pine trees
- Historical attractions like Robbers Cave and rock formations
- Accommodations available at the lodge and cabins
- Opportunities for rock climbing and rappelling
Osage Hills State Park Hiking Trails — Pawhuska, OK
- Dedicated hiking trails separate from mountain biking routes
- Varied terrain with hills, rocks, and moderate challenge
- Approximately five miles of total trail length
- Options for shorter hikes, some around one mile in length
- Wildlife viewing opportunities including deer, foxes, turkeys and eagles
Expert trails
Charon’s Garden Wilderness Trail — Indiahoma, OK
Located in Wichita Mountain National Wildlife Refuge
- 2.4-mile trail with rocky terrain and boulder field
- Technical trail demanding fitness and climbing skills
- Suitable for hiking combined with climbing and boulder hopping
- Camping allowed with a permit; caution for rattlesnakes
Horsethief Springs Trail — Heavener, OK
Starts at Cedar Lake, winding through Ouachita National Forest
- Demanding hike with steep grades and lengthy climbs
- Historic trail once frequented by outlaws like Belle Starr
- Known for beautiful mountainous scenery and creek crossings
- Camping allowed, water must be treated before drinking
David Boren Trail, Beavers Bend State Park — Broken Bow, OK
16-mile trail through hilly, forested terrain near Broken Bow Lake
- Scenic views of lake, rocky banks, and islands
- Multiple trailheads and opportunities for primitive camping
- Fishing spots along the trail; trout permit needed for Lower Mountain Fork River
- Skyline Trail offers a shorter, challenging option with steep climbs and creek crossings
For more information, visit TravelOK’s website.
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