The Biggest Surprise You’ll Come Across While Hiking This Incredible Trail in Oklahoma

The Narrows Trail in the Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge near Lawton, Oklahoma, is no ordinary trek. This unexpected adventure takes you on a journey to conquer part of the Sooner State’s Wichita Mountains. It’s a 2.5-mile out-and-back hike that takes adventurers on a quest to explore an off-the-beaten-path affair. 

As a bit more background on the terrain along this hidden gem of a destination, “the Narrows” is a granite gorge that was naturally carved over many years, into the side of Eagle Mountain in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. These ancient granite mountains rise above the plains of Oklahoma and offer those who are adventurous enough some special, rugged, and wild spots to traverse. The trail itself is short, but isolated and serene—meaning it’s a very peaceful way to connect with nature, but you’ll likely be the only hikers on the trail. 

So, as with any isolated backcountry-style hike, be sure to exercise caution. Let someone outside your hiking party know where you’ll be going, and pay attention to the weather, as it can change quickly. Bring plenty of water and snacks, and equip yourself with proper footwear for the journey. I recommended you download the AllTrails map before you go, so you can make sure you’re still on the designated pathway (or figure out how to get back on it if you happen to veer off the trail).

The time you take to explore the terrain should definitely be slower to enjoy the beauty of the sights and scenery. The journey begins with a short quarter-mile walk from the trailhead down to West Cache Creek, which you will cross and begin the ascent up the side of Eagle Mountain (be sure to stop and admire the views from the top!). Eventually, you will find a junction in the trail—both pathways work, but offer different experiences. 

The trail to the right goes toward a scenic overlook, and the trail to the left leads back down into the canyon. Eventually, the Narrows Trail “ends” when it hits the waters of a rocky creek bed (exercise caution here, as the water levels change depending on the season and recent rainfall). Ultimately, how high the waters of the creek sit will control how long you can spend traveling downstream, but eventually, you’ll come to a large pool of water surrounded by cliffs at which you will have to turn back.

If you’re looking for other epic hikes to explore in Oklahoma, don’t miss The Little Baldy Trail, an iconic trail in the Sooner State boasting impressive 360-degree views and conveniently tucked away in the Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge. There’s also This Awesome Hike In Oklahoma That Will Take You Straight To An Abandoned Castle. Here, you can explore the abandoned structure, Collings Castle, in Turner Falls Park, which is known for its historic architecture and scenic views.