Check out these 6 walking trails in OKC metro area
Now is the perfect time to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the beautiful weather and blooming flowers. Whether you are looking for a family outing or a quiet nature center, the Oklahoma City metro area has something for everyone. Be sure to bring water as Oklahoma weather can get hot quick. Here are six of the best places in the metro area to take a walk.
1. Myriad Botanical Gardens
Located in the heart of downtown, the Myriad Botanical Gardens tops the list with its 15-acre urban oasis of beautifully landscaped gardens, children’s garden, dog park, and a crystal bridge conservatory. The gardens have sprung to life with blooming colorful flowers and native Oklahoman trees, making it the perfect spot for a relaxing stroll.
• Difficulty level: Easy.
• ADA-accessible: Yes.
• Are dogs welcome: Yes.
• Directions: 301 W Reno Ave
2. Will Rogers Gardens
One of the city’s historic parks, Will Rogers Gardens is a 30-acre park dedicated to the conservation and preservation of Oklahoma’s natural flora. Visitors can explore the winding paths that lead through the gardens, take a stroll around the pond, or relax in one of the many seating areas. The park houses a variety of attractions, including a color garden, an arboretum, a conservatory and an exhibition center.
• Difficulty level: Easy.
• ADA-accessible: Yes.
• Are dogs welcome: Yes, on a leash.
• Directions: 3400 NW 36
3. Martin Park Nature Center
Martin Park Nature Center is a beautiful place to take in the scenery in northwest Oklahoma City. The park offers several hiking trails (all less than a mile long) that wind through the wooded and meadow areas. There is also a bird observation wall and a nature center with native Oklahoman critters and flora and fauna exhibits. You can hear birds singing, see blooming wildflowers and see turtles swim under the scenic bridges in the park. This spot is perfect for a peaceful and relaxing stroll.
• Difficulty level: Easy.
• ADA-accessible: Yes, on the Courage Trail.
• Are dogs welcome: No.
• Directions: 5000 W Memorial Road
4. Stinchcomb Wildlife Refuge
The Stinchcomb Wildlife Refuge also is in the northwest part of the city. The refuge is a pristine area of 1,000 acres that has remained, for the most part, unchanged since before statehood in the early 1900s. The East Trail is a flat 5.1 mile out-and-back trail with shaded areas according to AllTrails. It is a quiet place, although not far from the city.
• Difficulty level: Easy.
• ADA-accessible: No.
• Are dogs welcome: Yes, on a leash.
• Directions: NW 51 & N Stinchcomb Ave.
5. Lake Hefner
Located about 20 minutes northwest of downtown, the 9.4 mile paved loop trail on Lake Hefner is another great option for a stroll. A popular spot for fishing, boating and picnicking, the trail offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding area.
• Difficulty level: Easy and flat, but a long walk if you go the full loop. According to AllTrails, it takes nearly three hours to complete.
• ADA-accessible: Yes
• Are dogs welcome: Yes, on a leash.
• Directions: Northwest Oklahoma City, Between Wilshire & Hefner Road
6. Bluff Creek Park
Bluff Creek Park spans over 100 acres and features an extensive trail system for walking and a separate trail for mountain biking. The park has multiple picnic pavilions, playgrounds and sports fields, making it a great place for families to spend a day outside.
• Difficulty level: Easy.
• ADA-accessible: Yes.
• Are dogs welcome: Yes.
• Directions: 11301 N Meridian Ave.