The best walks and hikes in Tulsa County

The Keystone Singletrack Trail (Big Loop) offers an easy hike through peaceful wooded forests, where you will cross small streams and navigate a path with both smooth and rocky sections. As you make your way around the loop, keep an eye out for scenic views of Keystone Lake, providing a lovely backdrop to your outdoor adventure. This route covers 4.5 miles (7.3 km) and involves a gentle elevation gain of 189 feet (58 metres), making it accessible for most hikers.

Plan for about 1 hour and 54 minutes to complete this loop at a steady pace. The trail system is open year-round, so you can visit in any season. You will find that each loop is clearly marked with colored blazes, which helps with navigation. Parking is generally available right at the trailhead, making it convenient to start your journey.

This particular loop is part of a larger stacked trail system within Keystone State Park, giving you a good taste of the area's natural beauty. It is a popular multi-use trail, so you might encounter others enjoying the outdoors. The straightforward nature of this loop makes it a great option if you are looking for a relaxing and enjoyable experience in the park.

Embark on the Creek Turnpike Trail for a challenging hike that spans 12.2 miles (19.6 km) and includes a total elevation gain of 361 feet (110 metres). This difficult route will take you approximately 5 hours and 4 minutes to complete, offering a varied experience as you go. While much of the path runs alongside an urban toll road, you will discover quieter sections that wind through pleasant, wooded scenery, providing a welcome change of atmosphere.

When planning your visit, you will find that the trail is entirely paved, making it suitable for various non-motorized activities. Parking is generally available at several access points, with Hunter Park being a convenient spot to begin your hike. Consider starting early to make the most of the cooler hours, especially given the trail's length and difficulty.

The Creek Turnpike Trail stands out for its unique blend of urban and natural settings. You can directly access Hunter Park from the trail, which offers additional recreational opportunities like an 18-hole disc golf course and a fishing pond. This route provides a distinct perspective on the area, combining a long-distance trek with accessible park amenities.

The Grasshopper Trail offers a refreshing escape into the natural surroundings of the Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area. As you hike, you will experience a tranquil atmosphere, with the sounds of nature replacing city noise. The route provides rewarding views of the Arkansas River from Turkey Mountain Park, a perfect spot to pause and take in the scenery. This easy hike covers 1.3 miles (2.0 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 139 feet (42 metres), making it a pleasant outing.

Planning your visit to the Grasshopper Trail is straightforward, as it is easily accessible for a spontaneous outdoor adventure. You can expect to complete the entire route in about 33 minutes, making it ideal for a quick break from your day. Parking is generally available at the Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area, ensuring a convenient start to your hike. This trail is a great option if you are looking for a short, uncomplicated outdoor experience close to the city.

This trail is a notable part of the Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area, an important natural space that allows you to connect with nature without traveling far. It stands out as a readily available option for those seeking a brief but immersive natural experience. The area's ecosystem provides a habitat for local wildlife and offers a glimpse into the region's natural environment, making it more than just a path through the woods.

Embark on an easy hike along the Haikey Creek Park Loop, a route that winds through both open spaces and shaded, densely wooded sections. You'll cross Haikey Creek twice, once over a motor vehicle bridge and again on a steel pedestrian bridge, offering different perspectives of the water. This gentle 1.4-mile (2.2 km) trail involves a minimal 9 feet (3 metres) of elevation gain, making it a perfect outing for about 33 minutes of walking.

The Haikey Creek Park Loop is easily accessible within Haikey Creek Park, which provides ample amenities for visitors. You'll find picnic areas and playgrounds, making it a suitable spot for families or a longer day out. The trail itself is pedestrian-only, ensuring a quiet experience away from any vehicle traffic. Its well-maintained path means you can enjoy your visit without concern for difficult terrain.

As you explore, notice the varied landscape underfoot, often featuring thin crushed gravel that is gentle on your feet. The route is rich with lush greenery and large trees, providing a pleasant natural setting. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, especially various bird species, as you traverse the park's diverse environment.

Embark on the easy Blue Trail, a straightforward hiking route through the Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area. This pleasant outdoor experience covers 1.9 miles (3.0 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 159 feet (48 metres), making it perfect for a quick escape. You can expect to complete the hike in about 50 minutes. As you walk, you will encounter a notable Rock Area, offering unique natural formations to observe. Further along, enjoy scenic overlooks of the water and surrounding landscape from a View of Arkansas River from Turkey Mountain.

Planning your visit to the Blue Trail is straightforward. You can easily find parking near the Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area, which serves as a convenient starting point for your hike. The trail is generally accessible, welcoming hikers for a refreshing outdoor experience. Before heading out, always check local park information for any specific access details or temporary closures that might affect your plans. This ensures you have the most up-to-date information for a smooth and enjoyable trek.

The Blue Trail is a prime example of the accessible outdoor opportunities within the Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area. It provides a quick yet rewarding connection to nature, showcasing the area's natural beauty without requiring a significant time commitment. This route is ideal if you are looking for a short, easy hike to clear your head or enjoy some fresh air. Its features, like the Rock Area and river views, make it a notable option among the region's trails.

Embark on the North Woods Loop Trail for an easy hike through a beautiful riparian wilderness. This gentle route, spanning 1.9 miles (3.1 km) with only 7 feet (2 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 46 minutes to complete. You will find yourself surrounded by mature woodlands, perfect for birdwatching, and enjoy peaceful water views as the trail borders Flat Rock Creek, Bird Creek, and Nelson's Oxbow. The atmosphere here is calm and inviting, offering a serene escape into nature.

Planning your visit to the North Woods Loop Trail is straightforward. The trailhead is easily accessible, with parking typically available at the Oxley Nature Center. This easy hike is suitable for all ages and abilities, making it a great choice for a family outing or a quick nature escape. Before heading out, always remember to check local conditions, especially if you are visiting during different seasons, to ensure the best experience.

The North Woods Loop Trail is a highlight within the Oxley Nature Center, showcasing a vibrant riparian ecosystem. Its mature woodlands are particularly notable for supporting diverse wildlife, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching and observing local fauna. This trail offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature in a well-preserved environment, providing a tranquil contrast to urban life.

Embark on an easy hike along the Black Trail, a well-defined path winding through Ray Harral Nature Park. This short route is perfect for a quick escape into nature, offering a peaceful atmosphere as you stroll. You will cover 0.8 miles (1.2 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 34 feet (10 metres), making it accessible for nearly everyone. Expect to complete this pleasant walk in about 19 minutes, enjoying the natural surroundings without any strenuous effort. The trail provides a refreshing break, letting you connect with the park's quiet beauty.

Planning your visit to the Black Trail is straightforward. You will find ample parking readily available at Ray Harral Nature Park, making access simple for drivers. There are no specific permits or fees required to enjoy this hike, so you can head out whenever you are ready. This trail is ideal for a spontaneous outing, whether you prefer a morning walk or an afternoon stroll. Since it is a short and easy route, you can comfortably fit it into any part of your day.

While its name might suggest a challenging path, the Black Trail is rated easy, making it a welcoming option for many visitors to Ray Harral Nature Park. This route is part of a larger network of trails within the park, including the Blue, Red, Yellow, Orange, and Green Trails. Exploring this network allows you to combine different segments for a longer adventure or simply enjoy the variety of paths available. It is a great starting point to discover the park's interconnected natural spaces.

Embark on a pleasant hike along the River Parks East Bank Trail, a moderate route stretching 11.4 miles (18.3 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 136 feet (41 metres). You can expect to spend around 4 hours and 38 minutes exploring this path. The trail offers continuous views of the Arkansas River, winding through a green urban corridor dotted with park landscaping and various bronze statues, providing a refreshing escape within the city limits. You will find the path to be well-maintained and inviting for a leisurely outing.

When planning your visit, you should know that the River Parks East Bank Trail is designed for multiple uses, featuring paved surfaces that often include separate lanes for pedestrians and cyclists. This makes it a versatile option for various activities. The trail is also dog-friendly, so you are welcome to bring your leashed companion along for the adventure. For those who prefer evening strolls, the entire route is well-lit, extending its usability beyond daylight hours.

This trail is a notable feature of the River Parks system, offering a vibrant natural setting that integrates seamlessly into the urban environment. It provides direct access to The Gathering Place, a popular and extensive park destination that offers numerous amenities and attractions for all ages. The combination of river views, public art, and easy access to a major community hub makes this route a unique and cherished asset in the region.

The Tuckabache Trail offers an easy hiking experience on a smooth asphalt surface, perfect for a relaxed urban nature walk. You can enjoy incredible city and river views, particularly along the Arkansas River, as you complete this 3.5-mile (5.7 km) route. With a gentle elevation gain of just 151 feet (46 metres), it takes approximately 1 hour and 28 minutes to finish. The trail winds through the diverse landscape of The Gathering Place, passing by a wetland pond and various park features. This easy terrain is suitable for all hikers looking for a pleasant outing.

Accessing the Tuckabache Trail is straightforward, as it is located within The Gathering Place in Tulsa. You will generally find parking available directly at the park, making your visit convenient. Since the route features a paved surface, it remains a popular choice for dog walkers throughout the year. This family-friendly trail offers a chill walking experience, so you can plan your visit for any time of day that suits you.

This trail stands out as a prime example of urban green space, providing a natural escape within the city limits. The Gathering Place itself is a unique park designed to offer diverse recreational opportunities for the community. The Tuckabache Trail's design integrates seamlessly into this larger vision, offering a tranquil path that highlights both natural beauty and thoughtful urban planning. It's a great option if you are looking for a well-maintained and accessible outdoor activity.