Hiking Oklahoma by Jamie Fleck

Author:Jamie Fleck
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Falcon Guides
Published: 2021-05-05T00:00:00+00:00

Vista of Lake McMurtry

THE HIKE

The trail system at Lake McMurtry is a favorite among mountain bikers. With its switch-backs, variation in topography, and the feeling of “being away from the city,” the Red Trail appeals to hikers as well. Although it does not showcase Lake McMurtry as much as the Blue Trail, it does begin and end near the lake’s shoreline. It also exhibits different kinds of natural scenery, all just as unspoiled and noteworthy.

The Red Trail originates close to the shoreline of Lake McMurtry, east of a parking lot and a pavilion. Within 600 feet of the entrance, you reach a fork. Bear right to continue east, past a modest pond. After this point, you will come across a couple side trails to your right, one heading west and another heading south, respectively. Bypass those and continue toward the old footbridge at 0.38 mile. The trail starts to head south, and you encounter a series of switchbacks until the 1.75-mile mark. Close to the 0.5-mile mark, cross a seasonal creek bed. A couple more side trails will be to the west and southeast of you. At 0.66 mile, partial views of Lake McMurtry come into sight. Bear right (southwest) at the fork at 0.67 mile. An alternate route sign appears at 1.82 miles. This sign indicates that the trail will split in two directions at the upcoming fork. The right side (west) of the fork leads to the “downhill” section, covering a distance of 0.4 mile. The left side (southwest) of the fork continues through the “meadow” section, which is 0.9 mile in length. The “downhill” section is more maintained and includes a tree-framed vista of Lake McMurtry at 1.88 miles. This is perhaps the best and most distinctive view of the lake on the Red Trail, even if the view is not panoramic.

The trail heads south and then east before the route from the “meadow” section merges with the trail you are currently on. This concurrence will occur at 2.17 miles. There is a mild dip in the path before the trail proceeds south into another series of switchbacks. The switchbacks conclude at 2.8 miles, with a small footbridge and additional partial lake views in between. The trail heads east before reaching the Green Trail connection at 2.89 miles. The Green Trail is a relatively new trail that connects the Red and Blue Trails. Bear left (north) to continue on the Red Trail. You again embark on a series of switchbacks that finish up at the 5.65-mile mark. During these switchbacks, you will encounter a seasonal creek bed, several footbridges, downed trees, and ditches. Take care at the footbridge at 4.93 miles—this one in particular is a bit old and unstable. Also be aware of the private property to your right (east) at 5.35 miles; make sure to stay on the trail.

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