Most Beautiful Hiking Trails During Spring on Oklahoma’s Wildlife Refuge

Across nearly 60,000 acres of land in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, visitors can get in touch with their wild side by enjoying the scenery on different hiking trails throughout the refuge. Out of the eight on the refuge, we highlighted the most beautiful trails visitors of all skill levels can enjoy in the Wichita Mountains.

Burford Lake Trail

This trail is perfect for all levels and even includes some educational stopping points about the lake and its history. For those that have a tendency of getting lost or losing direction, this trail is clear, maintained and it an "in and out" trail, meaning you simply follow the way you entered in order to leave. During the spring, summer and fall, this trail is filled with color and lush greenery - it is recommended to come prepared with bug spray and shoes with ankle protection.

Osage Lake

This trail has several options for all levels of hikers and activity levels. Although it is not a recommended trail for handicapped, it's fantastic for the kiddos and four-legged babies to join in on the fun. It is important to remember that wildlife seen on the refuge are wild and should not be approached or instigated. Enjoy their company from a safe distance.

Post Oak Falls

If you enjoy a challenge, you'll enjoy the Post Oak Falls trail. It's recommended to wear long pants and shoes with traction and grips while traversing through the hills and tight spaces you may run into. Getting to the waterfall is a bit tricky and is not recommended for inexperienced hikers, but there is a higher vantage point that allows everyone to get a beautiful view.

Longhorn Trail

It isn't uncommon to find actual longhorn on this trail, just remember to admire from afar. Longhorn trail is relatively flat compared to the other trails listed, but it just means the beauty extends for miles.

Kite Trail

Often used to reach the Forty-Foot hole, the Kite Trail is a great introductory hiking trail for those who are just getting into the hobby and want a bit of challenge available, but not required if not ready to take on the risk. This trail has an array of different ways to take this trail, as it has many "sub trails" that take you in the same direction as the others.

Read more: Oklahoma's Top 10 Most Dangerous & Deadly Animals

Quannah Lake & Dam

Springtime is what I consider prime time for this easy 1.6-mile trail close by the Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center. The color that explodes all across the vegetation never stops - not to mention the wildlife and creatures you'll find also enjoying the experience with you while you hike. This trail is especially easy for those that cannot travel long distances, but still want to enjoy the outdoors.

Lost Lake Trail

As the name states, not many know about the trail unless you stumble upon it or are escorted by someone who does know of it. Despite being beside a lake, you'll climb several areas and spend miles enjoying the area away from the water. That is until you reach the waterfalls. The sight, stunning even in the dead of winter, is sure to be well worth the hike during the springtime.

Elk Mountain Trail

Considered moderately difficult, Elk Mountain trail is great challenge for the experienced with an impeccable vantage point at the end. To wrap up the trip around Elk Mountain, visitors will get a whole new perspective of the Wichita Mountains.

As you can probably tell, all 8 of the trails are absolutely gorgeous in their own way. If you'd like to explore the trail yourselves, visit the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge Visitors Center, pick up a map and explore. Have you been on these trails and caught a beautiful photo? Share it with us on our app. You can also include your suggestions for the most beautiful trails in your area.

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