Oklahoma offers some of the best hiking in the Midwest, with trails winding through tallgrass prairie, rugged forests, and the ancient Ouachita Mountains. From easy nature walks to challenging backcountry treks, there are hiking trails for all ages and ability levels.
Whether you’re a beginner looking for an easy hike or a seasoned pro seeking new adventures, Oklahoma has something for you. Here are the top 5 hiking trails for all skill levels in Oklahoma that you don’t want to miss.
1. Charon’s Garden Wilderness Area (Easy)
Nestled in the Ouachita Mountains, the Charon’s Garden Wilderness Area features over 14 miles of interconnected trails ideal for beginner hikers. The routes meander through thick oak and pine forests, past boulder fields, and scenic overlooks.
The highlight is the 2.5-mile Three Falls Trail, which winds past three breathtaking waterfalls cascading over granite. With an elevation gain of only 300 feet, it’s a fairly easy hike suitable for families. Be sure to stop at the observation deck for a stellar view of the 90-foot Charon’s Cascade.
With its gentle climbs and lush scenery, Charon’s Garden is one of the best easy hiking trails in Oklahoma. Just beware of slippery rocks around the falls.
Location: Near Talihina, OK
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 2.5 miles roundtrip (Three Falls Trail)
2. Chickasaw National Recreation Area (Easy)
Situated along the foothills of the Arbuckle Mountains, Chickasaw National Recreation Area shields an oasis of cool springs, swimming holes, and waterfalls. The 6.5 mile Travertine Nature Trail is a top pick for easy hiking.
As the name suggests, the route winds past travertine rock formations created by the park’s mineral springs. The terrain is relatively flat with paved sections, making it ideal for families. Highlights include the sprawling Rock Creek campground, Little Niagara Falls, and the plunging 25-foot Rock Creek Falls.
With all its shady spots and places to take a dip, the Travertine Nature Trail is perfect for beating the Oklahoma heat. Don’t forget your swimsuit!
Location: Sulphur, OK
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 6.5 miles roundtrip
3. Lake Thunderbird State Park (Moderate)
Covering over 6,000 acres in central Oklahoma, Lake Thunderbird State Park brims with hiking opportunities along the shores of the reservoir. A standout is the 5.5 mile Hog Creek Trail, which boasts beautiful lake views with a few moderate climbs.
Starting from the Alameda area, the route meanders through a mix of grasslands, marshes, and wooded uplands. You’ll traverse boardwalks over wetlands, follow an old stone wall, and skirt the sandy shoreline. Look for herons, brush piles built by beavers, and tiny tree frogs.
With diverse terrain and wildlife, the Hog Creek Trail offers an easily accessible slice of nature near the bustle of Norman and OKC. Be sure to also check out the park’s other trails for hiking options between 1 and 10 miles.
Location: Norman, OK
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 5.5 miles
4. Robbers Cave State Park (Moderate to Difficult)
In southeast Oklahoma, Robbers Cave State Park harbors a rugged wilderness crisscrossed by hiking trails from 1 to 12 miles long. A challenging but scenic option is the 8.5 mile Eagle Watch Loop.
Featuring the Eagle Watch Trail and connecting Ouachita National Recreation Trail, this vigorous hike leads through thick oak and cedar forests teeming with birds. You’ll traverse several steep sections with rock stairs as you make your way between wooded ravines and ridge tops.
An observation tower at the halfway point provides far-reaching views over the park. Look for whitetail deer and soaring hawks along the way. With its strenuous climbs and remote wilderness immersion, the Eagle Watch Loop is a top pick for seasoned hikers.
Location: Wilburton, OK
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Distance: 8.5 miles
5. Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge (Difficult)
Home to an ancient mountain range, the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge offers some of the most demanding and rewarding hikes in Oklahoma. Though the refuge has trails from 1 to nearly 20 miles, the Skyline Trail stands out for its breathtaking alpine scenery.
This strenuous 9.6 mile trek ascends over 1,500 feet into the rugged granite mountains. You’ll climb winding ridges, pass pristine lakes, and weave through boulder fields dotted with yucca and cacti. The panoramic views from the summits are phenomenal.
Keep your eyes peeled for bison, elk, prairie dogs, and maybe even the endangered black-capped vireo. Just be prepared for a tough hike at higher altitudes compared to most of Oklahoma.
With its towering peaks and fantastic wildlife watching, the challenging Skyline Trail is a must-do for avid hikers.
Location: Lawton, OK
Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 9.6 miles
Conclusion
Oklahoma really shines when it comes to hiking variety. From tranquil nature walks to demanding mountain treks, there are trails tailored for all skill levels. Whether you’re looking for an easy family hike, moderate lakefront stroll, or challenging backcountry adventure, you’ll find it in the Sooner State.
For beginners, Charon’s Garden and Chickasaw National Recreation Area offer short routes through beautiful scenery. Lake Thunderbird and Robbers Cave bring moderately challenging options with great lake views and forest immersion. And for experts, the rugged Wichita Mountains provide a backcountry hike to remember.
So lace up your boots, pack some snacks, and hit the trails! Oklahoma’s spectacular hiking has something special for everyone. Let us know about your favorite spots in the comments. Happy hiking!
