Elk Mountain in the Wichita Mountains - Yes this really is Oklahoma!
Yes, there are really mountains in Oklahoma!
Important Hiking Considerations:
Elk Mountain is one of the taller peaks in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge of Oklahoma at 2,254 feet in elevation. From its summit, there are 360-degree views of the Refuge's Charon Garden Wilderness.
We enjoyed this hike with one of the very best guides to the hikes of Oklahoma, the Oklahomo Hiker ! Paul brought us to the Wichitas for 2 1/2 days to hike and explore all across the Refuge.
The trail begins at the Sunset Trailhead and picnic area and quickly crosses over Sunset Pool before beginning to ascend. The trail climbs steadily and moderately the entire way. In some places the trail is eroded and in other places some rock work has been done to stabilize the trail. The trail isn't marked as best we could tell and trails in general in the Refuge seem to be more suggestions than marked routes - so it's best to pay attention and have a map with you.
Besides a short section through an oak forest, there are almost constant outlooks along the trail with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the prairie off in the distance.
The main trail ends at the first summit bump on Elk Mountain, which has a rather large, plateau-like summit. We decided to keep going at this point, to the actual summit, which is about a third of a mile from that first summit. There's a pretty well worn trail most of the way and it was easy enough to follow and then hike on the rocks to the summit itself.
When we were there in May, the wildflowers were blooming across the Refuge in a spectacular fashion and we spent plenty of time enjoying them all.
The entire hike was about 3.5 miles with about 617 feet of elevation gain.
We enjoyed this hike with one of the very best guides to the hikes of Oklahoma, the Oklahomo Hiker ! Paul brought us to the Wichitas for 2 1/2 days to hike and explore all across the Refuge.
The trail begins at the Sunset Trailhead and picnic area and quickly crosses over Sunset Pool before beginning to ascend. The trail climbs steadily and moderately the entire way. In some places the trail is eroded and in other places some rock work has been done to stabilize the trail. The trail isn't marked as best we could tell and trails in general in the Refuge seem to be more suggestions than marked routes - so it's best to pay attention and have a map with you.
Besides a short section through an oak forest, there are almost constant outlooks along the trail with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the prairie off in the distance.
The main trail ends at the first summit bump on Elk Mountain, which has a rather large, plateau-like summit. We decided to keep going at this point, to the actual summit, which is about a third of a mile from that first summit. There's a pretty well worn trail most of the way and it was easy enough to follow and then hike on the rocks to the summit itself.
When we were there in May, the wildflowers were blooming across the Refuge in a spectacular fashion and we spent plenty of time enjoying them all.
The entire hike was about 3.5 miles with about 617 feet of elevation gain.
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You can find more information about this hike on:Outdoor Hiking, Backpacking and Camping Guide Services:
Advice and Recommended Gear:
Gear we used on this hike:
- Goodr Sunglasses
- Osprey Talon 22 Pack
- Osprey Kestrel 38 Pack
- Altra Lone Peak Shoes
- Deliberate Life Designs Sandals
- Black Diamond Trail Back Trekking Poles
- Darn Tough Socks
- Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter
- Nalgene 32-ounce Wide-Mouth Water Bottles
- Energizer LED Headlamp
- Patagonia Nine Trails Shorts
- Eddie Bauer Guide Pro Shorts
- NEMO Chipper Reclaimed Closed-Cell Foam Seat Pad
- Garmin Instinct Watches
- Garmin inReach Plus GPS
Hydration and nutrition for this hike:
- Lenny & Larry's The Complete Cookie
- Gatorade Endurance Carb Energy Chews
- GU Energy Roctane Ultra Endurance Energy Drink
- Jelly Belly Sport Beans - Energizing Jelly Beans
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- Weather: Check the weather forecast before your hike and be prepared for changes in conditions. Weather can be unpredictable, so bring appropriate clothing and gear.
- Safety: Some sections of the trail can be steep and rocky, so use caution and watch your footing. It's also a good idea to hike with a friend or let someone know about your hiking plans.
- Leave No Trace: As with any outdoor activity, remember to follow the principles of Leave No Trace. Pack out any trash, stay on the trail, and be respectful of the natural environment.
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