Hiking
Photo by Alex McBride
Check out our local trails and read our helpful tips section to make the most out of your hiking trip.
Sparrow Hawk Primitive Area
Sparrow Hawk is a 3.8 mile trail and is beloved by thousands of college students and river rats who visit the Illinois River. It is rated as moderate and has some of the most beautiful views in northeastern Oklahoma. Dogs and horses are welcome on the trail.
You need an Oklahoma hunting license, fishing license, or wildlife passport to enter the trail. Overnight camping is not permitted.
Explore the largest privately protected conservation area in the Ozarks. This 17,000 acre luscious landscape overlooks the Illinois River where spring-fed creeks meander amid a rugged topography of steep slopes and narrow valleys.
Bring the family to bird watch and see elk — and when the season is right — black bears!
Dogs are not allowed.
J.T. Nickel Preserve
Sequoyah State Park is a haven for water lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With over 19,000 surface acres of water and 225 miles of shoreline on Fort Gibson Lake, the park attracts boaters and beach-goers alike.
Sequoyah State Park
Welling Ridge Trail System
Experience 6 miles of hiking and mountain bike trails just twelve minutes from downtown Tahlequah. The Welling Ridge Trail system includes approximately 2.5 miles of Green and 3.5 miles of Blue single track trails. The parking lot near the trailhead includes a bike skills track, picnic tables, and a bathroom facility. Welling Ridge Trails is managed by Tahlequah Trails Association. Bikers, hikers, and trail runners are all welcome.
Two mile trail system that connects the city park, Town Branch creek, Bailey waterfall, historic homes, Cherokee Nation buildings, the skatepark, and the historic prison museum. Bikes are welcome on this trail. The 10-foot-wide trail also includes emergency phone stations and lighting.
Tahlequah History Trail
Helpful Tips
Check weather beforehand
Bring first-aid supplies
Wear sunscreen
Bring extra water
Pack protein snacks
Pace yourself