One of the best ways to experience the great outdoors is hiking. It's not only a great exercise, but it's also a way to discover the beauty and ecosystems that exist in Oklahoma. Unless you're an advanced hiker, a hike under 5 miles should be just perfect to get you on your way. Here are 9 of the best hikes in Oklahoma you should experience:

1. Bluff Creek Trail at Bluff Creek Park, Oklahoma City

Nature enthusiasts will love Bluff Creek Trail in Oklahoma City. The trail offers both dirt and paved sections. You can enjoy the ease of the 1-mile asphalt section or the 3.1 miles of dirt tracks. Either way, you'll love the hiking one of the best hikes in Oklahoma.

2. Yellow Trail at Turkey Mountain, Tulsa

This 4.4-mile loop trail at Turkey Mountain is one of the most scenic hikes in Oklahoma. It is close to Tulsa and easily accessible. The hike takes about 2-3 hours on foot or about 45 minutes by bike. Enjoy stunning views of Tulsa and the Arkansas River while enjoying the easy hike in the hills of Turkey Mountain.

3. Charon's Garden Trail at Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, Indiahoma

In southwestern Oklahoma, you'll discover some of Oklahoma's most beautiful scenery in the Wichita Mountains. Set out on the 2.4-mile trail (each way) of Charon's Garden to experience an intermediate to difficult hike. You'll encounter rocky, rugged terrain that will briefly slow your hike down until you enter back into more smooth trails.

4. The Rough Canyon Trail at Robbers Cave State Park, Wilburton

Located in the San Bois Mountains in southeast Oklahoma, Robbers Cave State Park offers some of the best hiking in Oklahoma. The Rough Canyon Trail is a 2.9-mile loop that is not very strenuous, after an initial incline. The views of Rough Canyon and Fourche Maline Creek are favorite viewing areas along the hike.

5. The Trail at Gloss Mountains, Fairview

Hike to the top of the sparkly Gloss Mountains by the way of an easy 1.2-mile round trip hike. While at the top of the mesa, enjoy spectacular views of miles and miles of open terrain and the Cimarron River.

6. Bugle Trail at Osage Hills State Park, Pawhuska

The Bugle is a 4-mile trail that covers a good portion of the Osage Hills State Park. Enjoy beautiful scenery as you enjoy bluff views, Sand Creek and Lookout Lake. The trail is moderately easy and should be great for most children and skill levels.

7. The Eagle Roost Nature Trail at Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge, Jet

This easy, 1.2-mile loop trail inside Great Salt Plains will show off some of Oklahoma's most unique topography. The trail is almost all flat and along the way you'll pass by Sand Creek Bay - one of the best places on the hike for birdwatching.

8. The Trails at Martin Nature Center, Oklahoma City

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and head out to Martin Nature Center in Oklahoma City. The 140 acres are kid-friendly secluded among lush grassland, streams, beautiful foliage and more than three miles of the best hiking in Oklahoma.

9. Lakeview Lodge Trail at Beaver's Bend State Park, Broken Bow

Inside Beaver's Bend State Park you'll find the 4-mile loop trail - Lakeview Lodge. The trail is made up of three loops, which range from beginner to intermediate. Loops 1 and 3 are both 4 miles long and Loop 2 is the shortest at 1.75 miles. The trails are clearly marked and easy to travel on. The beautiful, big pine trees and topography make this hike a favorite for all who visit Beaver's Bend.

What is your favorite hike in Oklahoma under 5 miles?