Turkey Mountain is our Favorite Tulsa, Oklahoma Hiking Spot!
Many people don’t think there is much to do in Oklahoma, even fellow Oklahoman’s don’t realize all the great things to do here. But with my new series What’s there to do in Oklahoma we share our favorite events, destinations and all the great things Oklahoma has to explore.
In today’s What’s there to do in OKLAHOMA article we will be covering our favorite Tulsa Oklahoma hiking spot – Turkey Mountain.
What is Turkey Mountain?
Turkey Mountain is more than 300 acres of park only a few miles from downtown Tulsa. Turkey Mountain is technically a hill because its summit is only 100 feet above the nearby Arkansas River. (But don’t let that discourage you) It is still the best hiking spot in Tulsa, Oklahoma. You can explore Turkey Mountain by foot, bicycle or even by horse.
Why is it our favorite Tulsa Hiking Spot?
Turkey Mountain is our favorite Tulsa, Oklahoma hiking spot because each hike is a new beautiful experience due to its large size and various trails. It is a great place for all ages to get out and explore the outdoors and get a bit of exercise in the process. It has beautiful landscapes including multiple types of trees, large boulders and great views of the Arkansas River. We’ve even gotten to see bald eagles flying around the summit of Turkey Mountain.
Hiking The Trails
There are multiple trails covering Turkey Mountain for beginners and intermediate and advanced hikers.
The Red Trail
Turkey Mountain’s Red Trail is more of a beginners trail is a .8 mile loop. The dirt trail shows a small portion of the greatness of Turkey Mountain.
The Blue Trail
The Blue Trail is a moderately difficult 1.5 mile loop. This dirt trail is more steep in multiple areas and it goes by one of Turkey Mountains ponds.
The Yellow Trail
The Yellow Trail is the “Difficult” trail. It is a 4.4 – mile loop. According to the River Parks Authority “This trail is for experienced visitors only and requires extra water for you and your pets.”
Paved Trail
There is also a paved trail that has a steep slope leading you down by the river. It eventually intersects with the east bank trail system.
Our Path
When we go hike we usually make our own path starting with the yellow trail but take random turns and usually let the boys decide which way to go. But keep in mind we do that when we don’t have a time frame and we plan on hiking for a few hours. We make sure to have water and snacks for the long haul. It could be easy to get confused which way to go when wandering so make sure and have your phone with you so you can GPS your way back if you go this route. But sticking to an actual trail is suggested.
What to Bring
Anytime you hike you want to make sure you have the necessary items. A small backpack with water, snacks and a first aid kit and comfortable shoes preferably hiking boots are must haves. For our full hiking lists stay tuned for more articles with specific packing guides.
Where is Turkey Mountain?
Below is a map showing exactly where Turkey Mountain is and how you can get there.
Additional Information
You can find more about Turkey Mountain at the Official River Parks website. There you can find park and trail updates along with a downloadable map and more about the history of Turkey Mountain.
Want to see more fun things to do in Oklahoma? Check out our What’s there to do in Oklahoma Section!
Thanks for Reading!
Have you ever explored Turkey Mountain? Or are you planning on getting out and exploring in next time your in Tulsa? Please let us know in the comment section. We’d love to hear from you and answer any questions you may have.
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For more fun things to do in Oklahoma check out our Things to do in Oklahoma Section to help you plan your next adventure!