Oklahoma is home to some spectacular parks and trail systems perfect for hiking, biking, running and more. From the tallgrass prairies in the east to the rugged Arbuckle Mountains in the south, there are diverse landscapes and ecosystems to explore.
Whether you’re looking for an easy nature stroll or a challenging mountain bike ride, Oklahoma has amazing outdoor recreation waiting to be discovered. Read on for our picks of the top 5 parks and trails for exercise in the Sooner State.
1. Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area – Tulsa
Overview
Turkey Mountain near Tulsa provides over 300 acres of woodland trails and rocky outcrops perfect for trail running, hiking and mountain biking just minutes from downtown. The park contains over 15 miles of trails.
Features
- 15+ miles of wooded trails
- Rugged hills and rock outcrops
- Dense forest ecosystem with oak, hickory and pine trees
- Trailside boulders and scenic overlooks
Highlights
Highlights of Turkey Mountain’s trails include the Rocky Top Loop which summits the park’s highest point, the challenging technical climbs and descents for mountain biking, and the tranquil setting right in the heart of the city.
2. Roman Nose State Park – Watonga
Overview
Roman Nose State Park near Watonga contains rugged canyon hiking trails and scenic bluffs perfect for getting the heart pumping. The park has over 5,500 acres of canyonlands and rolling prairie.
Features
- 7+ miles of canyon hiking trails
- Steep climbs and descents
- Dramatic canyon overlooks
- Backcountry camping available
Highlights
Highlights of Roman Nose State Park include taking in panoramic canyon views from high mesa tops, enjoying wildflower displays in springtime, and exploring the park’s interesting geologic rock formations. The Bluff Trail in particular provides challenging exercise.
3. Ouachita National Recreation Trail – Southeast Oklahoma
Overview
The Ouachita National Recreation Trail spans nearly 230 miles across southeastern Oklahoma, providing long-distance hiking and backpacking through the Ouachita Mountains. The trail goes through dense forest and crosses many streams.
Features
- 230 mile point-to-point trail
- Primarily wooded single track
- Diverse ecosystems from pine forest to wetlands
- Backcountry campsites along the route
Highlights
Highlights of the Ouachita Trail include immense solitude in remote sections, excellent swimming holes, and traversing rugged mountains with substantial elevation changes. With its length, the trail caters to both short day hikes and extended backpacking trips.
4. Chickasaw National Recreation Area – Sulphur
Overview
The Chickasaw National Recreation Area near Sulphur contains rolling wooded trails with limestone bluffs, artesian springs, and waterfalls perfect for picturesque hikes. The park has over 20 miles of trails to explore.
Features
- 20+ miles of hiking trails
- Limestone artesian springs and waterfalls
- Dense woodlands with some elevation changes
- Paved multi-use path around Lake of the Arbuckles
Highlights
Highlights of Chickasaw National Recreation Area include taking in the cascading waterfalls, swimming in cool springs on a hot day, and spotting wildlife like roadrunners along the trails. The area offers diverse routes from easy walks to more challenging climbs.
5. Lake Thunderbird State Park – Norman
Overview
Lake Thunderbird State Park near Norman offers rolling wooded trails with great lake views perfect for hiking, trail running and cycling. The park contains over 6 miles of diverse loops.
Features
- 6+ miles of looped trails
- Mostly single track with some elevation change
- Scenic overlooks of Lake Thunderbird
- Mountain biking and equestrian use allowed
Highlights
Highlights of Lake Thunderbird State Park include diverse ecosystems from open grasslands to shady oak forest, taking in panoramic lake views from scenic overlooks, and choice of loop lengths to customize distance. The east side of the park has more technically demanding mountain bike trails.
Conclusion
From rugged mountains to scenic lakeshores, Oklahoma has spectacular outdoor recreation readily accessible. Challenge yourself on steep wooded climbs, take in prairie vistas, and enjoy the serenity of the trails. Just be sure to watch for ticks after your hike or ride!
Meta Description: Discover the top Oklahoma parks and trails perfect for hiking, biking, trail running and exploring diverse landscapes and ecosystems. This guide covers the best outdoor options.
