Cyclist silhouetted against a stunning sunset sky.
With a highly unique terrain of wide open plains and subtropical forests, Oklahoma is the ideal place to get your mountain biking fix. For those adrenaline junkies looking to hit the trails, you’re in luck! Oklahoma’s mountain biking trails, from state parks to forests, are top-notch. Here are the best in the state.
The Trails at St. Crispin’s, Wewoka, OK
St. Crispin’s is an Episcopal Conference Center, but the nine miles of trails are open to cyclists and hikers. You should check their Facebook page for the hours the trails are open.
Lake Lawtonka Trails, Medicine Park, OK
There are six different loops of trails at this track, from intermediate to challenging levels. You can download a trail map at the Medicine Park website. The Green and Red Loops close from October 1 to January 15 for hunting, but the others remain open year-round.
Turkey Mountain, Tulsa, OK
Turkey Mountain is an urban wilderness with 20 miles of trails for cyclists and hikers. The trails are GPS-mapped and available on kiosks near the parking lot. The park also has a bike repair station, outdoor shower, emergency response locations and a children’s climbing area.
Roman Nose State Park, Watonga, OK
Roman Nose State Park Trail System has four trails from beginner to intermediate-level. Two of the trails are open to equestrians, as well as hikers and cyclists, while the other two are only for hikers and bikers. Don’t leave the trail or you risk messing up your ride by hitting cactus plants.
Old Military Road Trail, Talihina, OK
You’ll get some great views of the Ouachita Mountains when you take on this trail. It’s a more challenging trail. Recommended that you don’t bike alone up here. One other caveat, don’t forget the insect repellent and check for ticks after riding.
Claremore Trails, Claremore, OK
Four loops of trails just east of Claremore Lake offer three miles of track for every level of cyclist. The trails might be short, but there is an expansion that began last fall to add about four more miles of track.
Lake Ponca Trails, Ponca City, OK
The trails are mostly intermediate, but there is one section with boulders that is considered expert. There is a loop that bypasses this stretch. You don’t have to take it on until you’re ready. The ride takes you through the wooded areas, near the lake and through open fields.
Bluff Creek Trail, Oklahoma City, OK
Oklahoma City Parks and Recreation Department maintains plenty of biking trails, but this one gets high marks. The parks department is requesting that bikers and walkers take precautions to avoid accidents on the trail.
12 Miles of Hell, Lawton, OK
This trail is considered highly technical, with rocky and steep climbs and descents. It’s close to Fort Sill, so if you hear artillery or see helicopters in the area, that’s why.
Robbers Cave State Park, Wilburton, OK
This park is the former hideout of outlaws Jesse James and Belle Starr. Today, the park is a favorite for cyclists, as the trail is rocky and tough, with steep ascents and descents. The scenery is beautiful, and if you don’t have a bicycle, you can rent one.
Key Insights at a Glance
- The Trails at St. Crispin's in Wewoka offer nine miles of forested trails on the grounds of an Episcopal conference center. They are open to bikers and hikers. Check their Facebook page for hours.
- Lake Lawtonka Trails in Medicine Park feature six loops ranging from intermediate to advanced. Several trails close seasonally for hunting, but others stay open year-round.
- Turkey Mountain in Tulsa is an urban wilderness with 20 miles of GPS-mapped trails, bike amenities, and scenic views—ideal for casual and seasoned riders.
- Roman Nose State Park in Watonga offers four trails, from beginner to intermediate, some of which are shared with equestrians. Stay on the path to avoid cactus hazards.
- Old Military Road Trail near Talihina is a tougher, scenic route through the Ouachita Mountains. It's remote and challenging, so it's best not to ride alone and be tick-aware.
- Claremore Trails provides four short but diverse loops near Claremore Lake, and an expansion to extend the network by several more miles is underway.
- Lake Ponca Trails in Ponca City include intermediate routes and one expert section featuring boulders. A bypass is available for those who are not ready for the technical segment.
- Bluff Creek Trail in Oklahoma City is a well-maintained urban trail with high marks. It's shared with walkers, so ride with caution.
- 12 Miles of Hell in Lawton is a highly technical trail with steep, rocky terrain. Located near Fort Sill, it is not surprising to encounter military sights or sounds.
- Robbers Cave State Park in Wilburton offers a rugged ride through outlaw history. The rocky trails and steep climbs are great for experienced cyclists, and bike rentals are available.
