Oklahoma is a state with diverse landscapes and natural beauty. From the rolling hills and forests of the east to the plains and prairies of the west, there are many places to explore and admire. Here are some of Oklahoma's top most beautiful places you should visit.
1. Turner Falls Park
Turner Falls Park is a natural attraction in Oklahoma that features a 77-foot waterfall, a natural swimming pool, hiking trails, caves, campgrounds, and a castle built by a professor in the 1930s. The park is located in the Arbuckle Mountains, about 70 miles south of Oklahoma City. The park is open year-round and offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages. Whether relaxing by the water, exploring the caves, or enjoying the scenic views, Turner Falls Park has something for everyone.
2. Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma is a protected area that covers more than 59,000 acres of land. It is home to various wildlife, including bison, elk, deer, prairie dogs, and many species of birds. The refuge also preserves some of the oldest rocks in North America, dating back to 500 million years ago. The refuge offers many recreational opportunities for visitors, such as hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The refuge is open year-round and has a visitor center, a nature store, and several campgrounds.
3. Gloss Mountain State Park
Gloss Mountain State Park is located in Major County, Oklahoma, about 8 miles west of Fairview. The park is named after the glossy appearance of the red shale and selenite crystals covering the mountains' surface. The park covers 640 acres and offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views of the surrounding landscape. The park is open year-round and has no entrance fee.
The park was established in 1975 by the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department with the help of local landowners who donated or leased their property. The park preserves a unique geological feature known as the Gloss Mountains or Glass Mountains, which are part of the Blaine Formation that dates back to the Permian Period. The mountains are composed of red shale, gypsum, and selenite, a transparent form of gypsum that reflects sunlight and gives the mountains a shiny appearance. The selenite crystals can reach up to 6 feet long and are sometimes called "hourglass selenite" because of their shape.
The park has two main hiking trails: the Cathedral Trail and the Lone Peak Trail. The Cathedral Trail is a 1.2-mile loop that starts at the parking lot and leads to the base of Cathedral Mountain, the highest point in the park at 1,638 feet above sea level. The trail offers views of the red cliffs, selenite outcrops, and native vegetation such as yucca, sagebrush, and prickly pear cactus. The Lone Peak Trail is a 0.6-mile out-and-back trail that starts at the end of the Cathedral Trail and climbs to the top of Lone Peak, which is 1,600 feet above sea level. The trail is steep and rocky and requires some scrambling. The trail rewards hikers with panoramic views of the Gloss Mountains and the Cimarron River valley.
Gloss Mountain State Park is a popular destination for nature lovers, photographers, and geology enthusiasts. The park offers a rare opportunity to see and explore a distinctive landscape that showcases the beauty and diversity of Oklahoma.
4. Beavers Bend State Park
Beavers Bend State Park is a popular destination for Oklahoma nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The park covers over 1,300 acres of scenic forestland, hills, and lakes along the Mountain Fork River. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, such as hiking, fishing, boating, golfing, horseback riding, and wildlife watching. The park also offers cabins, campsites, and a lodge for overnight stays. Beavers Bend State Park is open year-round and has something for everyone to enjoy.
5. Talimena National Scenic Byway
The Talimena National Scenic Byway is a 54-mile route that traverses southeastern Oklahoma's Ouachita Mountains. The byway offers spectacular views of the mountain range, one of North America's oldest. The byway also passes through the Ouachita National Forest, which covers 1.8 million acres of diverse ecosystems and wildlife habitats. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, camping, fishing, hunting, and scenic overlooks. The byway is especially popular in the fall when the foliage changes to vibrant red, orange, and yellow colors. The Talimena National Scenic Byway is a great destination for nature lovers and history buffs alike, as it showcases the beauty and heritage of this region.
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