David Boren Hiking Trail

Beavers Bend State Park
4350 S State Hwy 259A
Broken Bow, OK 74728

David Boren Hiking Trail

Address:
Beavers Bend State Park
4350 S State Hwy 259A
Broken Bow, OK 74728
Phone:
580-494-6556

Named in honor of former Oklahoma governor David Boren, the David Boren Hiking Trail in Beavers Bend State Park is one of the best hiking options in the state. This trail is comprised of seven smaller trails that can be mixed and matched to suit your time limits and skill level. The Beaver Lodge Trail, Cedar Bluff Nature Trail, Beaver Creek Trail and Southpark Trail are all one mile long, while the Lookout Mountain Trail runs one and a half miles and the Deer Crossing Trail runs two miles. The Skyline Trail, which is formerly known as Big Oak Nature Trail and Dogwood Interpretive Nature Trail, runs five miles.

Beaver Lodge Trail to Cedar Bluff Nature Trail via Skyline Trail (GPS 34 08.709, W 94 41.412): The Beaver Lodge Trail is a one mile trail that extends from the spillway to the dam, and after you complete this easy trek, turn left and head southwest on Skyline Trail. As the longest of all the David Boren Hiking Trails, Skyline Trail extends over five miles filled with creek crossings and steep climbs best suited to advanced hikers. However, the trail is well-maintained with clear trail markers, so getting lost should not be an issue. While on the Skyline Trail, you will intersect Highway 259A where the trailhead for Cedar Bluff Nature Trail is located. This one mile trail makes for an easy, and beautiful, conclusion as you cross the Mountain Fork River.

Beaver Lodge Trail to Forest Heritage Center (GPS N 34 08.709, W 94 41.412): This 10.5 mile, expert level trail will actually have you taking parts of the Beavers Lodge Trail, Skyline Trail, Deer Crossing Trail, Lookout Mountain Trail and Forest Heritage Tree Trail. It is important to note the trail markers, as each trail will have a distinct color. Beginning at the same starting point as before, continue from Beaver Lodge Trail to Skyline Trail. After six miles, you'll intersect Deer Crossing Trail. This trail will take a quick dip south before rebounding back and heading steadily southeast across the highway to Lookout Mountain Trail. Though this trail is only a mile and a half long, it does include a difficult climb over Lookout Mountain. Near the trail's end, you'll come to the Beaver Creek Trail, which will lead you to Forest Heritage Center. Cool down after your hike while checking out some of the center's artwork. 

Loop Trail from Forest Heritage Center (GPS 34 07.950, W 94 40.829): This three mile loop is perfect for intermediate to expert level hikers looking for a day hike without the need of a car drop. Park at the Forest Heritage Center and take the trail to the left at the first Y. You'll continue south for nearly one mile before turning right onto Lookout Mountain Trail. As stated before, this trail will take you to the summit, so be prepared for an arduous climb. Continue northwest on the trail and turn right. If you go to Highway 259A you've gone too far. The trail concludes with a half mile easy walk parallelling the highway back to the Forest Heritage Center.

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