Broken Bow’s Beavers Bend State Park hugs the southern rim of scenic Broken Bow Lake, a clear, striking reservoir tailor-made for aquatic adventure. The state park itself is a 1,300-acre woodland wonderland that features the meandering Mountain Fork River, the state’s most beloved tubing and kayaking destination. However, Beavers Bend’s main attraction is its countless hiking trails, many of which twist and turn in the dense backcountry that rests beside both aforementioned bodies of water.
A Beavers Bend State Park Hiking Guide
The DNR does a spectacular job maintaining this sacred landscape. Thus, Beavers Bend State Park is the perfect place to spot wildlife, including whitetail deer, bald eagles, brown (and rainbow) trout, and even shy black bears. Budding birders will also have a field day amid these pines, especially with so many thriving species, such as red-cockaded woodpeckers, American purple gallinules, king rails, and painted buntings (a favorite of ours). Beavers Bend State Park’s best hiking trails typically provide three things: tranquility, natural beauty, and a healthy dose of exercise (without pushing your limits).
Lookout Mountain Loop
The “toughest” hiking trail in Beavers Bend State Park remains the Lookout Mountain Loop, a 2.9-mile trek that features a bird’s-eye view of the dense topography. With an elevation gain of nearly 600 feet, you can expect a decent climb to the mountain’s peak. Unsurprisingly, the best time to conquer this moderately-challenging adventure is mid-to-late spring when the temperatures remain in the upper 70s and low 80s, and the greenery seemingly comes to life before your eyes. The well-marked pathway meanders past an azure creek, tall pines, and unique rock formations, such as Blaylock sandstone, volcanic tuff, and Stanley shale.
Friends Trail
“Friends” Trail also hugs the Mountain Fork River—a section that boasts a peaceful waterfall and a head-turning, photogenic shale outcropping along the river’s edge. The trail, which opened in late 2019, is still gaining traction within the local hiking community. There’s no doubt that it’s a splendid spot to walk your dog, introduce the kids to nature, and picnic in the woods.
Lakeview Lodge Trail
The Lakeview Lodge Trail varies in length, depending on which loop you choose. However, all options feature little-to-no elevation gain. Half of the journey follows Broken Bow Lake’s sandy boundary, while the rest of the expedition snakes into the dense forestry. Legions of whitetail deer live in these uninhabited forests, and many geological anomalies (such as peeping quartz) dot the landscape. There’s also an abundance of wild mushrooms that grow here, so don’t forget your guide book.
If you’re looking for even more adventure, seek out the Tree Trail, home to a covered bridge and a totem-like sculpture.
Luxury Cabin Rentals in Broken Bow, OK
After a half-day of hiking inside Beavers Bend State Park, return to your luxury cabin in the Broken Bow area wilderness. Blue Beaver Luxury Cabins remains the area’s premier property management team, offering a diverse range of pet-friendly and large group cabins set amid idyllic countryside scenery. Whether you’re searching for Hochatown Heaven, a Cider Mill, or some Blackberry Jam, just remember that Everything’s Pine in Broken Bow! On-site luxuries typically include a floor-to-ceiling fireplace, a chef’s kitchen, an outdoor hot tub, private acreage, and all of the modern conveniences of home. Please give us a call today at 580-494-3400 to book a well-deserved escape to Beavers Bend (or check availability online).
