WANT EVEN MORE HEALTHY IDEAS FROM SHAPE YOUR FUTURE?
Looking for a place to clear your mind, stretch your legs or get fresh air without leaving the city? You don’t have to drive an hour to find beautiful nature walks. There are plenty of walking trails in Oklahoma City! From scenic parks to urban paths, you can find free, family-friendly, pet-friendly and accessible options close to home.
Why Walking Outside Is the Best
Physical activity is important for your body and your mind, no matter your age or fitness level. When you get moving, you’ll have more energy, get better sleep and feel better throughout the day. Walks are a great way to get active. You can do them solo or bring friends and family along, and you can make the walks as long or as short as you want.
This guide is meant for locals and tourists alike! As a local, you might just find your new favorite walking trail or neighborhood path, and tourists can experience the best OKC has to offer.
Read on to find the top seven free walking trails in Oklahoma City, their difficulty levels and their best features so you can pick your next OKC adventure.
Top 7 Walking Trails in Oklahoma City
1. Bert Cooper Trail on Lake Hefner
Trail at a glance:
- 9+ miles
- Pet-friendly
- Beginner-friendly
- Accessible
If you’re looking for a scenic walk with room to roam, check out the Bert Cooper Trail. This local favorite is over nine miles long on a fully paved, mostly flat loop around Lake Hefner. You can go for a short stroll or challenge yourself to complete the loop! Much of the trail follows the lake’s shoreline, adding scenic views to your walk, run or bike ride. The trail is pet-friendly, so bring your furry friend on a leash and enjoy this popular dog walk trail! You’ll also find restrooms, water fountains, playgrounds and picnic areas throughout, making this the perfect family-friendly activity.
2. Martin Nature Park Trail
Trail at a glance:
- 5 miles
- Wildlife sanctuary
- Beginner-friendly
- ADA-Accessible
The Martin Nature Park Center is a 140-acre wildlife sanctuary in northwest OKC. Plan your next nature walk here for an experience filled with grasslands, creeks, ponds and woods. The park has 2.5 miles of woodland trails spread over three different hiking paths. The ADA-accessible INTEGRIS Jim Thorpe Rehabilitation Courage Trail is a half-mile trail that gives everyone the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful scenery.
While on your walk, be on the lookout for birds and wildlife, including cottontail rabbits, deer, owls and more. The trails are short and flat enough for families with young children, and the park features an elevated watchtower, a bird observation wall and a nature center with interactive exhibits. General admission is free, but make sure to leave your furry friends at home this time!
3. Bluff Creek Trail
Trail at a glance:
- 5 miles
- Pet-friendly
- Beginner-friendly
- Accessible
Bluff Creek Park, located near Lake Hefner, is the perfect place to hike or bike in OKC. This park features two trails: one is a 1.2-mile paved loop with shady spots and creek views, and the other is a 3.8-mile unpaved path popular among mountain bikers. The paved path is smooth with a gentle grade at less than 5% and is great for wheelchairs, mobility equipment and strollers. The unpaved trail through a forested corridor is a shared loop for hikers, runners and cyclists. If you’re looking for a bit of a challenge, try this one.
Bluff Creek is pet-friendly and makes for a relaxing walking trail in Oklahoma City, but remember to keep pets leashed! After your hike, check out the covered picnic pavilions or stretch out in the open grass for a bite to eat.
4. Scissortail Park Paths
Trail at a glance:
- 4-mile perimeter loop
- Pet-friendly
- Beginner-friendly
- Accessible
This 70-acre urban park in the heart of Oklahoma City, situated right next to the Myriad Botanical Gardens and Paycom Center, is the perfect escape. If you’re looking for a lunchtime stroll or a full afternoon adventure, the park’s 2.4-mile perimeter loop offers an easy, stroller- and wheelchair-friendly route for a nature walk. Afterward, explore the beautiful gardens, picnic groves and open lawns. Kids can enjoy the playground, and four-legged friends are welcome on a leash or at the enclosed dog park. With plenty of spots to relax and regular community events, Scissortail Park merges city life and nature, with something for everyone to do! This is a must-see park in OKC.
5. Earlywine Park Trail
Trail at a glance:
- 5 miles
- Pet-friendly
- Beginner-friendly
- Accessible
Explore the perfect family-friendly walking trail at Earlywine Park. The park’s loop trail is 1.5 miles long, short enough for a quick outing but long enough to stretch your legs and spend quality time outdoors. Find shaded picnic spots, sports courts and open fields along your route, and take in the lush landscaping, all within OKC city limits! Remember, if you decide to bring your dog, leash and clean up after them to keep the park ready for the next visitor. With lots to do and see, Earlywine Park Trail is perfect for all fitness levels, families and pet lovers.
6. Will Rogers Trail
Trail at a glance:
- 9 miles
- Pet-friendly
- Beginner-friendly
- Accessible
If you’re looking for a longer trail, try out the Will Rogers Trail with nine paved miles to walk, bike or run. You’ll pass through neighborhoods, parks and scenery — there’s lots to see! This walking trail in Oklahoma City is great for people of all fitness levels and connects to the Bert Cooper Trail and the Oklahoma River Trails, allowing for one safe, continuous ride. Along the way, you’ll find spots to stop and enjoy public art, benches and shady areas. Whether you’re out for a hard workout or a leisurely walk, you’ll enjoy this scenic trail.
7. Overholser Trail
Trail at a glance:
- 2 miles
- Pet-friendly
- Beginner-friendly
- Accessible
This walking trail runs along the east side of Lake Overholser, offering 3.2 miles to walk, bike or run. Enjoy peaceful waterfront views and pass by fishing docks. The boathouse is a fun spot to rent canoes or kayaks for some time on the water, while the playground and park pavilion make this trail a great family-friendly activity. The well-maintained paths and shady spots are a great place to unwind close to the city.
Tips for Enjoying OKC Trails Safely
You can explore OKC’s walking trails year-round, but spring and fall offer the most comfortable walking weather with milder temperatures and scenery in bloom. If you’re walking alone, always let a friend or family member know where you’re headed. If you’re walking on a hot summer day, consider walking early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the hottest parts of the day. In winter, bundle up!
Remember to always start your walks prepared with:
- A water bottle (or several)
- Sunscreen (and reapply)
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Snacks
- Charged cell phone
- Leash, water and waste bags for pets
Remember to be respectful of the trail, nature and others so everyone can enjoy it! Here are some tips to keep in mind on your walks:
- Stay to the right
- Pass on the left
- Give a friendly heads up when you pass someone
- Keep your dog leashed
- Clean up after your pets
- Be aware of your surroundings
- Wear reflective gear at night
Starting your adventure with a little preparation and knowledge will help you fully relax and enjoy the beauty of OKC’s walking trails.
Plan Your Walking Route in Oklahoma City
You can make planning your walks simple by thinking about where each trail is located across the city. Bert Cooper Trail, Martin Nature Park Trail, Bluff Creek Trail and Will Rogers Trail are all located in northwest OKC, Earlywine Park Trail is in the south, Scissortail Park is located right in the heart of downtown and Overholser Trail is in west OKC. Why not make a day or afternoon out of your walk by exploring the neighborhood you’re in? You’ll be surprised by the hidden gems and new favorite spots you’ll find!
If you want to explore OKC neighborhoods, try neighborhood-based routes. Spend an afternoon in the Paseo Arts District with its charming sidewalks, murals and cafes, or explore Midtown’s tree-lined streets for a casual walk. There is so much to see and explore in OKC.
Get Outside and Explore OKC
Adding physical activity into your life doesn’t have to feel like a chore. When you try something new, you might just find your next favorite way to get active. Find time to explore these walking trails with friends, family or on your own, and share your favorites.
You can get active anytime, anywhere. Looking for new ways to fit activity into your day? See how you can get active anywhere, or check out our list of FREE activities in Oklahoma. Getting active can be fun and easy when you find what works for YOU!