It’s always OK in Oklahoma because of its awesome attractions that aim to wow. Perched between the Great Plains and the Ozark Plateau, the state is proud of its mountains, forests, canyons, mesas, savannas, and prairie, plus a long list of state parks. One destination it’s most proud of is Cavanal Hill, claimed to be the world’s highest.One of its most popular areas is Beavers Bend State Park, famed for its mesmerizing scenery and teeming recreational activities. However, to get the most out of this natural wonder, tourists with a taste for adventure should try conquering its many trails. Mellow or challenging, the hiking paths of this humble park are nothing but rewarding. The Sooner State is indeed the better.
10 Beaver Creek Trail
Stretching for over a mile, a loop trek of Beaver Creek Trail will take hikers to varied views starting from the Nature Center.
From there, the first landmark to welcome visitors is the Civilian Conservation Corps monument before crossing the creek. The trail is perfect for beginners since it’s flat and can be finished in under 30 minutes, depending on the pace.
Not many people take this route, so it’s perfect for those who want to commune with Mother Nature.
9 Beaver Lodge Nature Trail
A mesmerizing waterfall is the climax of the three-mile (one-way) Beaver Lodge Nature Trail. Before trekkers appreciate the said natural wonder, they must trudge the moderately challenging route that takes over an hour to finish.
It starts from the dam or the spillway, taking visitors along the run-off creek. As they navigate the flat trail that will turn narrow or steep later on, they will slowly hear the rushing waters – a sign that the cascading reward is almost there.
8 Cedar Bluff Trail
It’s only less than a mile, but Cedar Bluff Trail will satisfy hikers of any skill level. This loop path is easy but has a hill climb, perfect for beginners testing the waters of trekking.
It only takes 25 minutes to finish, and trekkers will be tempted to have a few stops not just to rest but to appreciate the views.
After all, the route is popular among birders, so tourists should keep their eyes peeled for feathered friends. It’s recommended to visit from March to October, but whatever the month, Cedar Bluff Trail won’t disappoint.
7 David Boren Trail
David Boren Trail is considered “one of the best hiking options in the state,” so avid hikers should conquer it. It’s perfect for those who are up for a challenging day, as the route is 12.5 miles long and, depending on the pace, can take over four hours to finish.
This path combines seven trails, hence the challenge it poses to hikers. Add that it’s not a looped route, so travelers should ready their legs for a workout.
It’s taxing but not boring along David Boren Trail.
6 Forest Heritage Tree Trail
The Forest Heritage Tree Trail starts from the Forest Heritage Center, and it’s ideal for families with young kids and even elderlies as it’s only 1.1 miles and takes 29 minutes to finish.
The path will lead travelers downhill to Beaver Creek before they reach the floodplain. They will also cross a bridge that will take them back to the center.
This loop trail is easy, much so that hikers might conquer more nearby routes. After all, Beavers Bend State Park has an abundance of nature paths.
5 Friends Trail
Friends Trail is among the park’s newest paths, so, when in the area, tourists might as well befriend it. After all, it’s only 1.5 miles and can be completed in less than an hour.
Starting from Spillway Creek, trekkers will be taken along rugged terrain, and they should prepare for a few rocky and steep inclines.
This looped intermediate trail is challenging for newbies, but they’ll be rewarded with a stunning panorama once they reach the top of a ridge.
4 Skyline Trail
The thrill is sky-high when taking on the challenge of Skyline Trail, as it’s almost 10 miles, perfect for those raring to have an exhilarating outdoor adventure. It takes over four hours to complete and has steep parts and water crossings – taxing yet rewarding.
Just be sure to pack appropriately, including for emergencies.
A loop journey along Skyline Trail means appreciating canopies, expansive views of the nearby areas, and a calming waterfall.
The route is also popular among fishers and campers, an enticing prospect for when trekkers want to try other things for their next visit.
3 Lakeview Lodge Trail
The four-mile Lakeview Lodge Trail is popular among mountain bikers, but hikers are also welcome to trudge its path. This moderate route takes over an hour to complete unless trekkers are so intrigued to borrow a bike to try the looped MTB paths.
That’s fine, though, as the area is adept to host adventurers, from thrill-seekers to mellow ones. For the latter, the beautiful pine trees are sights for sore eyes.
Add the varied terrain along the trail and the loop journey is a walk to remember.
2 Spill Way Loop
The nearly four-mile Spill Way Loop is perfect for a day hike as it can be completed in almost two hours, enough to test the skills of trekkers.
It’s popular among campers, fishers, and birdwatchers, so hikers can bring some gear if they want to try any of the said activities.
After all, the path can be finished in a jiffy, so there’s more time to try other outdoor stuff. Starting from the spillway, the trail will let visitors appreciate the view of the river and the waterfall – a calming sight when taking a break.
1 Deer Crossing Trail
The nearly four-mile Deer Crossing Trail is moderately challenging and can be done in almost two hours.
This loop path makes for an unforgettable outdoor journey, thanks to its varied terrain and towering trees – keeping hikers cool and calm.
The trek meanders through a shaded dirt trail, and some parts will take hikers to some viewpoints where breathtaking scenery awaits. Travelers should also keep their eyes peeled for some deer – hence the trail name. What a dear adventure, indeed.