If you’re looking for some epic hiking trails, look no further than right here. We’ve got you covered with all of the best trails around the Gore area.
Overlook Trail at Tenkiller Ferry Lake
Known as Oklahoma’s “heaven in the hills,” the sparkling waters of Lake Tenkiller offer both hikers and water enthusiasts ample opportunity to play. Three hiking trails, including two multi-use trails and one nature trail are available. One of the multi-use trails is handicap accessible and 1.5 miles in length. But the Overlook Trail is what most hiking enthusiasts come for. Its 2.2 miles offer the best chance at seeing wildlife. The out-and-back trail is suitable for all skill levels, and dogs are welcome with leash.
The “Ankle Express” Trail
Constructed in 1978, this 18-mile loop trail (also known as Greenleaf Trail) allows hikers and mountain bikers to take a deep dive into the woods on the east side of Greenleaf Lake near Braggs. The swinging bridge is a unique feature of this hike and great for that perfect photo opp. If you don’t care to do the entire 18 miles, you can do either the north or south loop instead.
Intermediate to expert-level hikers fair best with this trail as there is steep and uneven terrain in some parts. A beautiful hike that follows southeast from the trailhead, hugging the shoreline of the lake. The trailhead is located across the Deer Run campground at Greenleaf State Park. Follow the blue arrows, which designate the trail.
At the five-mile marker, you’ll see Mary’s Cove Campground, where you’ll have the decision to go east on the connector trail towards the south loop. On the west side of the loop you’ll wander along rocky bluffs and wooded areas while still keeping an eye on the lake.
Note: Hiking this trail in the summer months means bugs! So bring the bug spray.
Family Fun Trail
Greenleaf State Park is 930 acres of beauty, and this 1.5-mile beginner-level trail is wheelchair accessible and begins at the Greenleaf State Park office. Along the way, you’ll find benches, a nice gazebo, and other places to stop and simply take in nature. There’s also an observation deck that overlooks the Arkansas River. You’ll hike through wooded areas, near a kid’s pond, and around structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps.
Horton Slough Trail
A few miles south of Gore near Stigler, this 1-mile loop trail is located at the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge. Built along wetland, it overlooks Sally Jones Lake. During the winter months, thousands of migrating snow geese and other waterfowl use the lake as a resting place. Bald eagles are also a regular sighting here. Visitors will walk through a forested area with views of the wetland and the inhabiting wildlife. The trail is level and wheelchair accessible, and great for families with young children.
Three Forks Nature Center Northwest Loop Trail
About 37 miles north of Gore is a 5.2-mile loop trail that features a lake and is good for all skill levels. Start at the Nature Center on the Sequoyah Paved Trail and head north. At the end of the paved trail, turn west to connect with the Eagle Roost Trail, then follow the loop by the Ka-Tee Cockrum gravesite and back to where it connects up with the Bluebird Trail.