Now that 2022 is in the books, many people have made fitness their no. 1 priority.
With so many people at the gym, why not ditch the crowds and go for some scenic winter hiking.
The sooner state has an abundance of diverse territory. From the rugged panhandle all the way to the piney woods of McCurtain County, Oklahoma has pockets that were a match made in heaven when it comes to outdoor photography.
Which is why I’m here today.
I’m going to introduce to you our 5 favorite scenic winter hikes in Oklahoma.
These trails will help keep you fit while providing with you some phenomenal panromic views of Oklahoma.
Without further ado, Let’s go hiking!
For more information on Oklahoma hiking, please check Travel Oklahoma. You can find them here.
Scenic Winter Hikes in Southeast Oklahoma
The Rough Canyon Trail- Robbers Cave State Park
The wild and untamed territory in the San Bois Mountains lies the Robbers Cave State Park. Through the years, this park has evolved into one of the best state parks in the state. When you book your first trip here, you’ll understand why.
The trail worth mentioning here is the Rough Canyon Trail. The hike begins at Robbers Cave along the mouth of the Rough Canyon to a few small ponds.
The trail then loops through the mountains and past the horse trail connections and oil roads back to the cave.
A great day hike if you ask me.
The Wichita’s
The Forty-Foot Hole
Jaw dropping canyon. Check. Rewarding views of Southwestern Oklahoma. Also check. This hike is fairly easy with rewarding views.
Taking less than forty minutes to complete, the only downside is you do see a lot of traffic since this is a very popular hike.
But don’t let that discourage you from getting outside and enjoying some scenic winter hikes in the Wichita’s.
More often than not, you might have the trail to yourself during the winter months.
Bromide Hill is underrated.
The Chickasaw National Recreation area has plenty to offer for scenic winter hikes. But my favorite trail in the winter months is Bromide Hill.
A very easy hike to the top of Sulphur America. Just outside of Veterans Lake, this hike leads you all the way to the top of this charming town with phenomenal shots of Southern Oklahoma.
Green Country
The Pink Trail at Turkey Mountain
When I lived in Tulsa many years ago, Turkey Mountain was my go-to spot for hiking no matter what the season was.
My favorite trail in the park is probably the pink trail. This trail gives you outstanding shots of the Arkansas River while giving you a wooded feel to it.
To be honest with you, any of the trails at Turkey Mountain are great, I just happen to like the pink trail during the wintertime because of the duration and beauty that comes with it.
The Dinosaur Trail
Dotted with juniper and cactus clusters, Black mesa state park is worth paying a visit if you like scenic winter hikes.
The dinosaur trail, located in the heart of the Black Mesa State Park is quite the gem.
Located on the east end of Black Mesa near the creek bed, is one of my favorite trails in the state.
This is a fairly easy hike that takes you to prehistoric times. These famous dinosaur tracks have been preserved in sandstone next to Carrizo Creek.
At one time this trail had approximately 50 footprints, but due to erosion, about 15 exist.
You can only visit this trail during the daytime as this is located on private property. This is definitely one of the hikes you need to squeeze in while camping at Black Mesa State Park.
Thoughts & Takeaways
And that wraps things up for today. As far as scenic winter hikes are concerned, Oklahoma has quite a bit to offer for rookie hikers or veteran hikers. As the weather warms up, these hikes become very challenging with crowds and the Oklahoma heat. So, take advantage of the warm days with enjoying one of your favorite pastimes. Please share your favorite scenic winter hikes in Oklahoma in the comment section below.