If you’re on the lookout for an outdoor journey however don’t need to go too removed from Tulsa, you’re in luck. There are plenty of nice hiking trails to discover. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or a straightforward nature walk, there’s something for everyone. Here are a few of the finest hiking trails near Tulsa.
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Nature Trails Near Tulsa
The Northeast part of Oklahoma, starting near Tulsa, is known as Green Country. This area is called Green Country for the rolling hills, lovely hardwood bushes, hidden bluffs, and tucked-away rock outcroppings. There are unbelievable places to explore off the beaten path.
If you would possibly be in search of outside adventures, you’re in the best place. You don’t have to travel far to get out in nature. Keep reading to find the most effective hiking trails within the area.
Skull Hollow Nature TrailWe have rounded up some of the best hikes in Oklahoma close to Tulsa to share with you. All of the trails below make for glorious day hikes and half-day adventures. Continue reading to find the best hiking spots near Tulsa.
1. Keystone Singletrack (Big Loop) Trail
* Location: Near Keystone Lake in Mannford, Oklahoma
* Difficulty: Easy
* Distance: 4.2-miles
* Time: ~ 2 hours
* Parking: Parking lot, proper off the freeway, lots of house
* Dog Friendly: Yes, on a leash
* Cost: Free
* Restrooms: None
Big Loop TrailHiking Keystone (Big Loop) Trail
Close to Keystone Lake State Park, the Keystone Singletrack (Big Loop) Trail is an pleasant hike minutes from downtown Tulsa. This is a stunning hike near the city if you wish to get outdoors for some fresh air and a change of surroundings.
The trail meanders by way of rolling hills and dense woods, together with scattered rock outcroppings. One of the rock outcroppings is called Dragon’s Spine. There are a couple of trickling stream crossings to hop across.
The trail is marked with blue spray paint or blue arrows. The path loops again in course of the Arkansas River to the top of a hill, where you could be greeted with views of the Arkansas River.
There is average traffic, together with hikers, mountain bikers, and dirt bikers. Overall it is a quiet and peaceable hike near Tulsa.
2. Keystone Ancient Forest Trails in Keystone State Park
* Location: Keystone State Park near Sand Springs, Oklahoma
* Difficulty: Easy
* Distance: Multiple trails
* Time: ~ 2-3 hours
* Parking: Yes, parking zone with lots of area
* Dog Friendly: Yes, but solely on the first Saturday and third Sunday of each month
* Cost: Free
* Restroom: Yes, inside of gorgeous new visitor middle
* Hours: Open Thursdays from 7 am – 2 pm and Friday through Sunday 7 am – 6 pm
Hiking in Keystone Ancient Forest near Tulsa
The Keystone Ancient Forest is located about 20 minutes west of Tulsa. The space has average visitors, is well maintained, has a beautiful new customer heart, and the paths are all well-marked.
There are multiple trails to hike within the nature preserve.
Enjoy strolling the following trails via the forest:
* Fire Road – 0.8 mile a technique
* Childers Trail – 6/10 mile loop + handicap accessible
* Frank Trail – 1.four miles one way – add on to the big loop
* Less Traveled Trail – 4.1 miles a method (this is the primary huge loop)
* Wilson Trail – 1.zero mile one way
* Falls Trail – 3.5 miles a technique
Hiking Less Traveled Trail in Keystone Ancient Forest
The primary Keystone Ancient Forest Loop is known as the Less Traveled Trail. This trail wanders by way of the woods, a half of it’s graveled, and part is just dirt. Overall, the trail is open and simple to observe.
Hiking the Keystone Ancient Forest Loop Trail makes for the proper morning or afternoon adventure!
The Keystone Ancient Forest is residence to 500-year-old Cedars and 300-year-old Post Oak bushes. This forest is listed as a nature preserve with The Nature Conservancy.
Hiking within the Keystone Ancient Forest is certainly one of our favorite locations near Tulsa!
3. Bixhoma Lake Loop Trail
* Location: Bixhoma Lake near Bixby, Oklahoma
* Difficulty: Easy
* Distance: 3.3-miles
* Time: ~ 1 ½ – 2 hours
* Parking: Plentiful areas to park across the lake
* Dog Friendly: Yes, on a leash
* Cost: Free
* Restrooms: Portable toilet
Looking over Lake BixhomaArmadillo along trail
Lake Bixhoma is 40 minutes from downtown Tulsa near Bixby, Oklahoma. It is among the most exceptional trails to hike near the city. The space will get rural pretty fast on Leonard Mountain, making the hike round Bixhoma Lake one of many Tulsa area’s greatest hikes.
Hike the Bixhoma Lake Loop counterclockwise or clockwise – you choose. Stop and see the waterfalls at the finish of your loop downstream of the dam.
The trail follows a dust street a few of the way across the lake, then tapers right into a single monitor through the trees. There is one stream crossing on the south facet of the lake, which feeds the reservoir. The stream crossing consists of large rocks to skip across.
There was little foot visitors through the hike, but we may tell the trail is used. The leaves masking the path have been trampled, making the trail simple to comply with.
Highlights of the Bixhoma Lake Loop Trail include breathtaking views of the lake, a quiet nature really feel, and armadillos roaming the woods.
Towards the northern a part of the lake, a goat and donkey grazing restoration project is underway, so you would possibly even meet some furry friends!
Enjoy the hike, views, and tranquility in Oklahoma Green Country. This is amongst the best hikes near Tulsa, Oklahoma.
4. Sawtooth Loop Trail Part of Claremore Mountain Bike Trail System
* Location: Near Claremore, Oklahoma
* Difficulty: Easy
* Distance: 2.1-miles
* Time: ~ 1 ½ hours
* Parking: Parking lot on the east facet of Claremore Lake off of E 470 Road (Lake Road)
* Dog Friendly: Yes, on a leash
* Cost: Free
* Restrooms: Portable toilet
Claremore Mountain Bike TrailSawtooth Loop Trail boardwalk
Located 35 minutes from downtown Tulsa, the Claremore Mountain Bike Trail System is an area hidden gem. Tucked within the woods towards Claremore Lake, the group has built an excellent trail system for hikers and bikers.
Sawtooth Loop Trail is a simple loop to walk and revel in. There are multiple loops to trek or bike. The trails are marked by red, yellow, purple, and blue colors. After hiking, drive round Claremore Lake for more views and maybe a picnic.
From Tulsa, you can decide to drive Route 66 to Claremore for the more historic scenic route. Be sure to cease at the Blue Whale, a darling roadside attraction. Claremore Lake is simply to the east, somewhat means off Route 66.
5. Dripping Springs Trail in Natural Falls State Park
* Location: Natural Falls State Park near Colcord, Oklahoma
* Difficulty: Moderate due to steep downhill/uphill + some stairs
* Distance: 1 mile loop
* Time: ~ about an hour
* Parking: Plentiful parking at the state park
* Dog Friendly: Yes, on a leash
* Cost: $10 Entrance Fee
* Restrooms: Yes
Dripping Springs waterfallNatural Falls State Park
Natural Falls State Park is positioned about 1 hour and 15 minutes east of Tulsa near the Oklahoma and Arkansas border. Visiting the park makes for an attractive weekend day journey.
Hike the Dripping Springs Trail, Oklahoma’s famous 77′ waterfall. Some of the trail is paved, there are stairs, after which you will wander a single dirt monitor to a small lake beneath the bluffs.
The Dripping Springs waterfall was featured within the movie Where the Red Fern Grows, primarily based on Wilson Rawls’ novel.
After your hike, head on to Siloam Springs, Arkansas, to have lunch. Siloam Springs is a cute city.
Related Road Trips from Tulsa Guides:
6. Red Bud Valley Oxley Nature Preserve – Main Trail to the Bluff Trail
* Location: Catoosa, Oklahoma
* Difficulty: Easy to moderately troublesome
* Distance: about 1.2-miles (there are a few trails to discover should you select a special route)
* Time: ~ 1 hour
* Parking: Plentiful inside the park or alongside the county highway
* Dog Friendly: No pets
* Cost: Free
* Restrooms: Yes
* Hours: Saturday-Sunday 8 am to five pm
Redbud Valley entranceHiking Bluff Trail
The Red Bud Valley Oxley Nature Preserve is positioned roughly 30 minutes northeast of Tulsa. This Nature Preserve is part of The Nature Conservancy.
Start the hike on the main trail near the parking area. You will wander uphill through the Oak and Hickory trees. The trail will fork after some time, and you may select to journey alongside the Bluff Trail. We extremely advocate hiking along the Bluff Trail.
The Bluff Trail will get extra rugged, and you need to watch your step. You’ll hike along a limestone ridge with rock outcroppings, a cave, and a trickling stream earlier than going back downhill towards the parking lot. Watch your step and have fun.
Since the Red Bud Valley Oxley Nature Preserve is only open on weekends, it will get a decent variety of guests. The trails have average traffic.
7. Prairie Earth Trail in the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve
* Location: Tallgrass Prairie Preserve near Pawhuska, Oklahoma
* Difficulty: Easy
* Distance: 2.9-miles
* Time: ~ 1 ½ hours
* Parking: Parking area and trail signage near the visitor heart
* Dog Friendly: Yes, on a leash
* Cost: Free
* Restroom: Yes, on the visitor heart
Tallgrass PrairiePrairie Earth Trail
The Prairie Earth Trail is roughly 1 hour and forty five minutes north of Tulsa. Don’t let the proximity from Tulsa detour you. It is probably certainly one of the finest hiking trails.
The Tallgrass Prairie Preserve is the most important tallgrass prairie on the earth and is home to over 2,500 free-ranging buffalo. While driving to the trailhead, which is close to the visitor center, keep your eyes peeled for buffalos.
You’ll see the trail signal when you get close to the visitor heart. Start on the Nature Trail, then the trail branches to trek further alongside the Prairie Earth Trail.
You’ll wander via the huge open tallgrass prairie; then, the trail will take you back into the timber near Sand Creek. Enjoy wide-open areas with views for miles. The prairie is extremely breathtaking and noteworthy for strolling meditation and clearing the mind.
The Tallgrass Prairie is a half of The Nature Conservancy.
8. Sand Creek Falls (Osage Hills Falls) Trail in Osage Hills State Park
* Location: Between Pawhuska and Bartlesville, Oklahoma
* Difficulty: Easy
* Distance: 0.5 mile out and again – or you can loop for roughly a mile
* Time: ~ 30 minutes out and back – or you may make a loop for 1 hour
* Parking: Plentiful, trailhead by the swimming pool near the south finish of the park
* Dog Friendly: Yes, on a leash
* Cost: $10 pay there, $8 for Oklahoma residents
* Restrooms: Yes
Trail signOsage Hills Falls
From Tulsa, head north in the direction of Bartlesville. The drive will take about 1 hour and 10 minutes to get to Osage Hills State Park.
To hike to the falls, park near the swimming pool in Osage Hills State Park. The trail sign is correct behind the parking space. For a brief hike, you’ll stroll towards the water to see the well-known falls.
Depending on the time of yr you hike, you could or may not be in a position to see the falls. We hiked in mid-March after a big rainstorm, and the falls have been pretty washed out.
In case the falls are washed out, there are a few different trails to explore in the area with neat rock outcroppings. Don’t miss the cliff views from the group camp bunkhouses.
The state park has quite a quantity of hiking trails to explore. You may also enjoy the Osage Hills Red Trail, Osage Hills Lake Trail, and the hiking loops around the campgrounds.
Pack a sack lunch, enjoy the park, then head to downtown Pawhuska or Bartlesville to discover the historic primary streets! We simply adore each of these towns!
> If you head into Pawhuska, be certain to cease at The Pioneer Woman’s well-known Mercantile. The Merc is a cult favorite filled with southern small town charm!
9. Skull Hollow Nature Trail
* Location: Oologah Lake, near Claremore Oklahoma
* Difficulty: Easy
* Distance: 1.2-miles
* Time: ~ 1.5-2 hours if you’re stopping to benefit from the lake views
* Parking: Plentiful
* Dog Friendly: Yes, leash requirement
* Cost: Free
* Restroom: Yes
Skull Hollow TrailLooking over Oologah Lake
The Skull Hollow Nature Trail is tucked next to Oologah Lake. From Tulsa, it takes roughly 30 minutes to drive to the trailhead. There is plentiful parking before the trailhead.
The Skull Hollow Nature Trail is well-marked with roadside markers, and the start of the path is marked with a rustic wood sign.
Along the trail, you’ll wander by way of the woods earlier than coming to the primary rock outcropping and tree clearing with unbelievable views of Oologah Lake. Stop, have a snack, and benefit from the beautiful lake views.
Continue trekking the loop (you’ll see a trail marker that claims Long Loop), which wanders alongside the Oologah Lake shoreline.
Along the trail, wood signs point out the different types of native bushes, corresponding to Mockernut Hickory, Sugar Maple, and Black Walnut. Keep your eyes peeled for armadillo!
The Skull Hollow Nature Trail is certainly one of our favourite trails to hike near Tulsa. It is quiet and full of gorgeous lake views.
10. Mary K Oxley Nature Center Loop in Mohawk Park
* Location: Tulsa, Oklahoma
* Difficulty: Easy
* Distance: 2.6-miles
* Time: ~ 1.5 hours
* Parking: Yes, lots
* Dog Friendly: No
* Cost: Free
* Restrooms: Yes
* Hiking Trails Hours: Park open day by day from 7 am to 9 pm
Mary K Oxley Nature Center Trail
The Mary K Oxley Nature Center Loop is positioned near Tulsa on the north aspect of city. Hiking trails are accessible from Mohawk Park day by day from 7 am to 9 pm. There are a couple of hiking trails to choose from in addition to the Loop Trail.
To do the Loop Trail, begin on the Coyote Trail or Meadow Trail. You’ll loop in course of the lake. This is an attractive trail system that meanders by way of the Oklahoma woods. Keep your eyes peeled for the subsequent trail sign to select your journey.
Be certain to take a look at the Mary K Oxley Nature Center map before you go and choose your hiking route.
We love the Oxley Nature Center as it provides glorious nature walking trails near Tulsa. Lake Sherry can also be a quiet place to watch for birds.
11. Tulsa River Parks Trail System
* Location: Midtown Tulsa, Oklahoma
* Difficulty: Easy
* Distance: 26-miles of asphalt trails
* Time: ~ you possibly can select your adventure
* Parking: Multiple locations – try the Tulsa River Park Trail map
* Dog Friendly: Yes
* Cost: Free
* Restrooms: Yes
River Trail in WinterTulsa River Park Trail Spring
One of the community’s prized gems, the Tulsa River Parks Trail system presents 26-miles of paved asphalt trails along the Arkansas River. The Tulsa River Park system offers a variety of the finest strolling trails in Tulsa.
Hike, run, stroll, or bike along this beautiful system of trails with ample alternatives to see wildlife, bird-watch, get fresh air, benefit from the gardens, and expertise the Gathering Place.
Close to midtown, you don’t have to go far to the city’s finest place for out of doors recreation.
Head to Tulsa River Parks before or after work, on the weekend, or if you’re simply passing by way of.
12. Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area Trail System
* Location: Tulsa, Oklahoma
* Difficulty: Easy to difficult – choose your journey
* Distance: 45-miles of filth trails
* Time: ~ Choose your adventure
* Parking: Yes, lots
* Dog Friendly: Yes
* Cost: Free
* Restrooms: Yes
Turkey Mountain trail system
If you’re looking for a spot to hike in Tulsa, the Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area is ideal.
With roughly 45-miles of dust trails, Turkey Mountain has some of the greatest hiking trails near Tulsa. The Wilderness Area consists of over 300 acres located near downtown Tulsa.
Choose to hike the Red Trail (0.8-mile loop), Blue Trail (1.5-mile loop), Yellow Trail (4.4-mile loop), or paved trail, which connects to the Tulsa River Parks Trail System. The space additionally permits mountain biking.
Check out the Turkey Mountain Hiking Trail map to plan your journey. This is a beautiful area to get outside proper in Tulsa and get out for a day outing.
The trails are accessible year-round making it a perfect escape from metropolis life. You also can mountain bike right here.
12 Best Hiking Trails Near Tulsa, Oklahoma
Tulsa River Parks West TrailBelow is a quick abstract of some of the best hikes near Tulsa, in case you simply needed to skip via the article!
1. Keystone Singletrack (Big Loop) Trail
2. Keystone Ancient Forest Trail
3. Bixhoma Lake Loop Trail
4. Sawtooth Loop Trail Part of Claremore Mountain Bike Trail System
5. Dripping Springs Trail in Natural Falls State Park
6. Red Bud Valley Oxley Nature Preserve – Main Trail to the Bluff Trail
7. Prairie Earth Trail within the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve
eight. Sand Creek Falls (Osage Hills Falls) Trail in Osage Hills State Park
9. Skull Hollow Nature Trail
10. Mary K Oxley Nature Center Loop in Mohawk Park
eleven. Tulsa River Parks Trail System
12. Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area Trail System
> Psssst… We recently did an epic hike to dramatic cliffs at Lake Tenkiller. It is probably certainly one of the best hikes near Tulsa (only an hour and 20 minutes away). Check out how to hike the Burnt Cabin Trail at Lake Tenkiller!
Hiking in OklahomaThe finest time of yr to hike in Oklahoma is certainly exterior of the recent summer season months. The climate is gorgeous and never humid from October by way of May. There are fewer bugs, and the trees and brush aren’t as dense. Spring, fall, and winter make for one of the best occasions of the 12 months to discover the hiking trails near Tulsa.
> Hiking tip: We like to make use of the AllTrails app to see the trail maps for hikes.
Oklahoma Hiking Nature Facts
Mary K Oxley Nature CenterWhile hiking, do you take pleasure in viewing wildlife and birds and identifying the local trees? If so, under is a little more information on the wildlife, birds, and timber to maintain your eyes peeled for while hiking.
Common Animals While Hiking in Oklahoma
While hiking, maintain your eyes peeled for spotting the following animals:
* White-tailed Deer
* Thirteen-lined Ground Squirrel
* Raccoon
* Beaver
* Striped skunk
* Bobcat
* Armadillos
Birds While Hiking in Oklahoma
We love bird-watching while we’re hiking! While you’re out on the paths, you might be excited about watching for the next birds:
* Dark-eyed Junco
* Goldfinch
* Mockingbird
* Carolina Wren
* Cardinal
* Blue-Jay
* Tufted Titmouse
* Chickadee
* Scissortail Flycatcher
* Purple Martin
We get pleasure from having guidebooks to search for completely different species of plants and animals whereas we hike!
Trees While Hiking Near Tulsa, Oklahoma
The beautiful hardwood trees are a part of what makes hiking near Tulsa so awesome.
Below is a common listing of species you’ll see along your adventures.
* Post Oak
* Sycamore
* Hackberry
* Cottonwood
* Redbud
* Red Cedar
* American Elm
* Black Hickory
* Blackjack Oak
Hiking Gear Recommendations
Hiking near TulsaBelow are items we at all times take hiking and highly suggest:
Women’s Hiking Boot