Whether you’re an avid mountain biker, electric bike enthusiast, or just someone who enjoys a leisurely scenic ride, Oklahoma is packed with bike trails that offer everything from technical terrain to peaceful, family-friendly routes.
With its mix of urban paths, rugged wilderness trails, and lakeside loops, Oklahoma has something for every type of cyclist, whether you're pedaling manually or enjoying an electric boost.
So, grab your helmet (and your bike or e-bike!) and join me as I explore some of the best bike trails in the Sooner State, complete with detailed specs and insights to help you plan your next adventure.
Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area (Tulsa)
The Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area in Tulsa is a dream come true for mountain biking enthusiasts.
With over 25 miles of unmarked trails, it provides a rugged, backcountry experience, yet it's still close to the city, making it highly accessible.
This trail system is known for its technical challenges. It offers steep hills, sharp turns, and rocky paths, making it a test of biking skills.
For cyclists who crave an adrenaline rush, the variety of terain will keep you engaged and excited. Plenty of dense woodland adds to the feeling of being deep, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
While these trails are primarily suited for intermediate to advanced riders, they are also excellent places to sharpen their biking abilities.
- Trail Length: 25+ miles
- Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced
- Elevation Gain: Steep hills with varied terrain
- Surface: Natural dirt and rocks
- Best for: Thrill-seekers and experienced mountain bikers
Oklahoma River Trails (Oklahoma City)
For a more relaxed ride, the Oklahoma River Trails offer a scenic and smooth experience along 13 miles of paved paths.
The trail runs along the banks of the Oklahoma River, providing stunning views of the city skyline while maintaining a peaceful ambiance perfect for casual riders and families.
This trail is wide and well-maintained, making it ideal for beginners or those looking to enjoy a leisurely ride. Along the way, you'll find several parks and attractions, including the SkyDance Bridge, a stunning structure that lights up at night.
An additional perk is its connection to Bricktown Canal, where you can stop for a meal or enjoy some of Oklahoma City's urban attractions. It's the perfect blend of nature and city life on two wheels.
- Trail Length: 13 miles (one-way)
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Elevation Gain: Minimal
- Surface: Paved
- Best for: Families, beginners, and urban cyclists
Lake Stanley Draper Trail (Oklahoma City)
The Lake Stanley Draper Trail is perfect for intermediate riders looking for a moderately challenging but scenic ride.
This 13.5-mile loop circles around Lake Stanley Draper. It offers smooth asphalt paths and gentle curves, making it a favorite among locals who want a longer, peaceful ride.
You'll enjoy beautiful lake views as you ride and may even spot some wildlife, such as deer or birds, along the way.
The trail is well-maintained, with wide lanes and clear markings that make it easy to follow. It's a perfect ride for those who want to combine fitness with nature.
- Trail Length: 13.5 miles (loop)
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Elevation Gain: Gentle hills
- Surface: Paved
- Best for: Intermediate riders, nature lovers, and wildlife enthusiasts
Read more: How to Display Bike Lanes and Enable Cycling Mode on Google Maps
Lake Ponca Trails (Ponca City)
The Lake Ponca Trails are perfect for advanced riders if you're looking for a challenge.
This 7.2-mile trail network is known for its tough, technical terrain. It features rocky paths and zig-zagging tracks, like Muskrat Maze, which will test your bike handling skills.
The Lizard Lane and Bobcat Beat sections are notorious for their steep climbs and rocky gardens, making this trail an actual test of endurance and skill.
Frequent races, such as the Tour de Dirt, are held here, so you'll often see competitive riders training or racing along these challenging paths.
- Trail Length: 7.2 miles
- Difficulty: Advanced
- Elevation Gain: Steep, with rocky sections
- Surface: Rocky and technical
- Best for: Advanced riders and competitive cyclists
Roman Nose Mesa Loop (Roman Nose State Park)
At Roman Nose State Park, the Mesa Loop offers a scenic and moderately challenging ride.
This 9-mile trail features rock gardens and abrupt uphill climbs, giving you a satisfying workout amidst breathtaking views of Watonga Lake.
The trail is split into two sections: the Lower Mesa Loop (ridden counterclockwise) and the Upper Mesa Loop (ridden clockwise). Both provide a good balance of challenging climbs and fun downhills.
It's an excellent option for intermediate riders who want technical features and beautiful scenery.
- Trail Length: 9 miles
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Elevation Gain: Steep climbs, technical terrain
- Surface: Rocky
- Best for: Intermediate riders seeking technical terrain with great views
Rock Creek Multi-Use Trail (Chickasaw National Recreation Area)
The Rock Creek Multi-Use Trail in the Chickasaw National Recreation Area is a hidden gem for intermediate mountain bikers.
This 6-mile trail winds through dense vegetation, offering shaded paths with flowing single tracks and some gravel sections.
It's well-marked with signs so that you will stay aware, but the trail challenges your skills with loose gravel and technical spots. It's a great place to ride and enjoy the peacefulness of nature.
- Trail Length: 6 miles
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Surface: Single-track with some gravel
- Best for: Nature lovers and intermediate mountain bikers
Conclusion
Oklahoma offers various biking experiences, from the adrenaline-pumping climbs at Turkey Mountain to the serene riverside paths of the Oklahoma River Trails.
No matter your skill level, the state's diverse landscapes ensure that every ride is memorable. Whether pushing your limits on a rocky mountain trail or taking a relaxing ride around a lake, these trails provide the perfect opportunity to explore Oklahoma's natural beauty on two wheels.
So grab your bike, hit the trails, and enjoy the unique adventure that each of these paths offers. Happy riding!
FAQs
What are the best bike trails for beginners in Oklahoma?
Trails like Oklahoma River Trails and Lake Stanley Draper Trail are great for beginners.
Which Oklahoma bike trails are best for advanced riders?
Turkey Mountain and Lake Ponca Trails offer challenging terrains for advanced cyclists.
Are there bike trails in Oklahoma with scenic views?
Yes, trails like Roman Nose Mesa Loop and Oklahoma River Trails feature beautiful scenic landscapes.
