Underrated National Forest Hikes in Oklahoma That Rival National Park Hikes

With 20 miles of hiking trails, Chickasaw National Recreation Area is an excellent place to enjoy the great outdoors and learn about the area's natural and cultural histories from one of the park's visitor centers. A popular national park, and the oldest in Oklahoma, Chickasaw National Recreation Area sees nearly 1.5 million visitors annually to its almost 10,000 acres. While absolutely worth visiting for its hiking trails and other recreational opportunities, if you prefer more peace and solitude, try hiking at Ouachita National Forest as an alternative.

Straddling the border between Oklahoma and Arkansas, the Ouachita National Forest spans approximately 1.8 million acres. Throughout the vast landscape, it's a world of adventure and exploration through forests, the Ouachita Mountains, lakes, streams, rivers, and more. Not only is outdoor recreation abundant here, with horseback riding, mountain biking, and hiking, but taking a scenic drive through the forest is also an option. As for hiking, there are more than 700 miles of trails between Oklahoma and Arkansas, and some of these trails rival those found within Chickasaw National Recreation Area. Here are just a few for your next hiking adventure:

1. Bee Creek and Dyer Mountain Trail

The long 14.8-mile trek that is Bee Creek and Dyer Mountain Trail can either be hiked point to point, or you can go as far as you'd like before turning around to head back to your car. No matter the length of this trail you decide to tackle, you're in for a treat. The views are scenic, and if you get far enough, you'll encounter a waterfall with a swimming hole. If you don't feel like hiking and have access to a 4x4, this trail is popular for off-roading.

2. Cedar Lake Trail

The 2.1-mile hike on Cedar Lake Trail around Cedar Lake takes hikers through woodlands with glimpses of water along the way. This easy trail is great for kids, and you can bring your pup along, too, provided they remain on a leash. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife — it's abundant along this trail!

3. Old Military Trail

Starting at Holson Valley Road in Talihina, the Old Military Trail eventually joins the Ouachita National Recreation Trail once you get to the south side of Winding Stair Mountain. While it's a challenging 12-mile trek rated as hard on AllTrails, make sure you're in good physical condition to take on this trail and carry hiking gear and plenty of water. This mountain trail is shaded most of the way, and you'll love the scenery!

4. Billy Creek North Loop

A moderate trail, Billy Creek North Loop has some steep, rocky sections, so wear appropriate footwear to make the climb. Overall, this trail is 7.3 miles with an elevation gain of 1,085 feet, and sections of the trail are for ATVs. If you're up for a challenge and prefer solitude when you hike, this trail is a good one!

5. Mountain Top Trail Loop

The Mountain Top Trail Loop combines legs of two different trails: the Ouachita National Recreation Trail (north) and the Mountaintop Trail (south). Starting on the north side of the loop, along the route, expect to hike through an area with gum and oak trees. About ¾-mile into the trail, an overlook gives way to sweeping views of the verdant Holson Valley. Soon after, you'll cross over Talimena Scenic Drive and loop to the mountain's south side and a flowing brook.

Have you hiked in the Chickasaw National Recreation Area or the Ouachita National Forest? If you have a favorite hike in either place, please tell us about it through our nomination page. Happy hiking!