What is It? – The Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge in southwest Oklahoma is a truly remarkable destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. From prairies and woodlands to rocky cliffs and streams, the landscape is full of natural beauty and is the home to a surprising variety of plant and animal life.  It is one of the few places in the region where hikers can enjoy such a diverse experience in the great outdoors. 

Established in 1901, this 59,000-acre refuge in the heart of the Great Plains is the oldest managed wildlife facility in the United States and has protected unique wildlife habitats for over 120 years. Ironically, a small herd of bison were transferred to the area from a zoo in New York in the early 1900s in an effort to increase the population of these endangered animals in the southwest. Today, the bison herd has grown to over 500 animals and they coexist with longhorn cattle, prairie dogs, lizards, and other animals.  

What You Will See There- One of the best ways to experience the refuge is to hit the trails and explore the refuge on foot. The most popular hike in the area is the Bison Trail, a 5.25 mile loop route that takes hikers through a range of varying terrain and offers stunning views along the way. Most hikers take two to three hours to complete the loop with occasional stops along the way

The first mile of the trail is relatively flat with a dirt path that is easy to follow. However, the next four miles present a more interesting landscape, with some technical ascents and descents and rocky terrain to navigate. Along this section of the trail, hikers will be treated to breathtaking vistas including seeing the beautiful 40 Foot Hole, which is a great spot to stop and have lunch, and walking along a stream known as Lost Lake . Just be sure to stay on the trail, bring plenty of water and a fully charged phone with GPS, and look for the trail markers displaying a picture of a bison. The final mile of the trail runs along French Lake and is mostly covered, offering a respite from the sun on hot. The path there is relatively flat and rock-free, allowing hikers to pick up the pace and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

As you make your way along the Bison Trail, you are likely to encounter small groups of  bison and longhorn cattle, both of which are iconic symbols of the Great Plains. These majestic animals roam freely throughout the refuge and are an unforgettable sight to behold. While photographing and observing these animals grazing and moving around in their natural environment is exciting, give any wildlife you encounter plenty of space. This is not the place to pose for a selfie with a shaggy friend.  

Overall, the Bison Trail is an amazing hike that offers something for everyone. From the varied terrain and stunning views to the chance to see some of the most majestic animals of the Great Plains, it is a truly unique and rewarding outdoor experience.

Interesting Facts- Another interesting feature of the Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge is the nearby 2270 foot tall granite peak of Elk Mountain. The separate  Elk Mountain Trail allows more adventurous hikers to ascend a tail and climb boulders up to the summit where there are views of the entire area including the wilderness sections of the refuge and the Bison Trail.

When to Go-  The best time to explore the Bison Trail is during the late spring when the terrain is the most green, the waterways are flowing and the animals are the most visible. A summer hike can be challenging since there are many areas without shade and creek beds can be dried up.

How to Get Here- The Bison Trail section of the Wichita Mountains Refuge is located about an hour and forty-five minutes from Oklahoma City. It can be reached by taking Interstate 44 west and then turning of at exit 53 onto US -277 south. After traveling about 20 miles on US-277 south, take OK-58 north and OK-115 north to the Bison Trail which is located on NW Indiahoma Road. 

Cost – There is no cost to access the Bison Trail or the Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge.  

This article was written by Jessica Crist, the Production Director of The Traveling American, who also provided the photographs of the Bison Trail.