First Day Hikes at Oklahoma State Parks
Start 2023 off on the right foot with a rewarding hike through one of Oklahoma's scenic state parks. Get a head start on those fitness resolutions, embark on a guided nature-watching adventure, or simply enjoy the crisp January air with friends and family.
These hikes are part of the America's State Parks First Day Hikes initiative that takes place in all 50 states and encourages individuals and families to stay active with a hike outdoors. Whatever your motivation, an Oklahoma hike makes for a New Year's Day you won't regret.
Embark on a simple walk close to geological wonders at Alabaster Caverns, encounter wildlife and waterside views on the trails near Grand Lake and everything in between on one of these invigorating excursions. With 21 participating parks across the state, there's sure to be a hike happening near you. Dress warm, wear sturdy shoes and get ready to develop a healthy habit while discovering Oklahoma's abundant nature.
Southeast Beavers Bend State Park - Broken Bow
• Time: January 1 at 10am & 1pm
• Meeting location: Forest Heritage Center at 10am & Broken Bow Dam parking lot at 1pm • Degree of difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Name of trail: Heritage Tree Trail & Rattlesnake Bluff Trail
• Minimum age for kids: All ages welcome. Children must be accompanied by parent.
• Pets on leash allowed: Yes
• Length of trail: 1 mile and 4 miles
• Things to bring: Water, snacks, binoculars, camera
• Cancellation information: Call 580-494-6300
• Other information: Hot dogs will be served noon at the Forest Heritage Center.
Lake Wister State Park - Wister
• Time: January 1 at 1pm
• Meeting location: Heart Healthy Trail
• Degree of difficulty: Easy
• Minimum age for kids: All ages welcome. Children must be accompanied by parent. • Pets on leash allowed: Yes
• Length of trail: 0.5 mile
• Things to bring: Water, snacks, binoculars, camera • Cancellation information: Call 918-655-7212
McGee Creek State Park - Atoka
• Time: January 1 at 1pm
• Meeting location: T-Hill Loop on the campground
• Degree of difficulty: Moderate
• Minimum age for kids: All ages welcome. Children must be accompanied by parent.
• Pets on leash allowed: Yes
• Length of trail: 1.5 miles
• Things to bring: Water, snacks, binoculars, camera
• Cancellation information: Call 580-889-5822
• Other information: Snacks and hot beverages will be provided after the hike.
Robbers Cave State Park - Wilburton
• Time: January 1 at 9am
• Meeting location: Lodge
• Degree of difficulty: Moderate to difficult
• Minimum age for kids: All ages welcome. Children must be accompanied by parent and carefully supervised along Mountain trail.
• Pets on leash allowed: Yes
• Length of trail: Outdoor Classroom trail is one mile, Mountain trail is 2.5 miles • Things to bring: Water, snacks, binoculars, camera
• Cancellation information: Check the Robbers Cave State Park Facebook page
Talimena State Park - Talihina
• Time: January 1 at 9am
• Meeting location: Ouachita Trailhead
• Degree of difficulty: Moderate
• Minimum age for kids: All ages welcome. Children must be accompanied by parent.
• Pets on leash allowed: Yes
• Length of trail: 200 miles; guests choose their distance
• Things to bring: Water, snacks, binoculars, camera
• Cancellation information: Check the Talimena State Park Facebook page