The Epic 3.7-Mile Trail in Oklahoma’s Charon’s Garden Wilderness Worth the Trek

An oddly named trail in Charon's Garden Wilderness will take you on an epic trek through a rugged landscape of boulders, alongside a creek bed, through a tunnel, and into the forest. The varied landscape is anything but boring as you make your way to a natural point of interest—a rock formation that resembles a crustacean. It's an oddity along one of the most scenic Oklahoma hiking trails, which is also challenging enough for avid hikers yet easy enough for kids to tackle, and you will be rewarded with views and photo opportunities along the way.

Charon's Garden Wilderness Area covers a vast area within the 59,000 acres of the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, and there are numerous trails within the wilderness. If we had to suggest one must-hike trail, it's most certainly the one that leads to a rock formation referred to as "Crab Eyes." This 3.7-mile trek is moderately challenging with a 406-foot elevation gain and views everywhere you look. Due to rock scrambles and overgrown areas, make sure to wear footwear appropriate for this hike and, depending on the time of year, wear sunscreen and bug spray.

The trailhead begins by the edge of a creek before ascending a hill. Eventually, you'll encounter a tunnel, cross creeks, walk over foot bridges, and, finally, you'll make it to the curious rock formation known as Crab Eyes. At the rocky summit, two massive boulders that are slightly round in appearance, look similar to the eyes of a crab, hence the name. To me, it's so interesting to find a rock formation that resembles a sea creatures here in the landlocked state of Oklahoma!

From the summit of Crab Eyes, the views are glorious. You'll have a panoramic vista of the surrounding mountains, including Charon's Garden Mountain, Elk Mountain, Mount Lincoln, Granite Mountain, Twin Rocks Mountain, and Sunset Mountain. Stop and pause for a moment and take it all in—you made it to the summit, saw the rock formation known as Crab Eyes, and experienced some of the most epic views in the state. Was it worth the challenge? Absolutely!

The Crab Eyes Trail is a must for intrepid hikers who love views and a challenge—there's no other trail quite like it in the state. Have you ever hiked the Crab Eyes Trail, or any other trail for that matter, within the Charon's Garden Wilderness? What did you think? If there's another trail you think fellow readers would love, please nominate it and tell us why it's a must to hike—maybe we'll feature it in the future!

The Sooner State is ripe with wonderful trails, and, if you're up for more outdoor exploration, take a look at some of the best hiking trails in Oklahoma. From easy, serene hikes to arduous trails that will challenge you to the core, there's a trail for all hiking levels around this beautiful state.

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