Published: October 03, 2009 06:59 pm         

Oklahoma shows its colorful side

As temperatures start to cool outside, it won’t be long until some of Oklahoma’s top fall foliage destinations will boast bright and bold colors.

Enid News & Eagle has gathered a roundup of the state’s most popular fall foliage locations. All are within a day’s drive and offer a chance to view some spectacular autumn colors.



Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge

northwest of Lawton



The refuge will conduct fall foliage walks from late October through November. The interpretive programs take participants into Hollis Canyon for a mile walk through black jack and post oaks, chinquapin and red cedar and into a stand of sugar maples. Reservations are required at (580) 429-2151.

How to get there

From I-44 go west 10 miles on Oklahoma 49 (exit 45) to the refuge gate. If coming from U.S. 62, take Oklahoma 115 (Cache exit) north to the refuge gate. A map is available in leaflet dispensers inside refuge gates.



The Talimena Scenic Drive (Ouachita National Forest)

East of Talihina



Talimena Scenic Drive offers 54 miles of spectacular views and incredible scenery. It is the crown jewel of an entire region full of fun things to do for families, sportsmen, adventure seekers or anyone who enjoys nature’s beauty. Talimena Scenic Byway falls like a ribbon over Winding Stair and Rich mountains. Cresting the highest points between the Appalachian and Rocky mountains, this byway is best known for its autumn colors. Primary viewing times are mid-October through November.

How to get there

The byway begins at U.S. 271 and Oklahoma 1 in Ouachita National Forest about eight miles east of Talihina. Start by driving Oklahoma 1 east of U.S. 271. The byway will intersect with U.S. 259. Continue Oklahoma 1. In Arkansas, Oklahoma 1 becomes highway 88. The byway ends in Mena, Ark.



Great Salt Plains State Park

North of Jet



The lush timbered areas of Great Salt Plains show off an amazing array of colors as summer turns to fall. The various hardwoods, locust, cottonwood, post oak, hackberry and willow trees create a stunning canopy of radiant reds, yellows and oranges throughout Great Salt Plains State Park and adjoining Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge. The foliage provides a topographical contrast to surrounding fields of northwestern Oklahoma. The best viewing is mid-October through the first week in November.

How to get there

Entrances to the park and refuge are about 15 miles north of Jet on Oklahoma 38.



Boiling Springs State Park

East of Woodward



The sandhill and sagebrush terrain of western Oklahoma is broken with what pioneers called the “oasis on the plains,” created by clear, running water and tall hardwood trees that intertwine in the Boiling Springs area. While the leaves will begin to turn as soon as temperatures begin to drop, optimum opportunities to view fall foliage are mid-October through the first week in November.

How to get there

The park is six miles east of Woodward on Oklahoma 50B.



Roman Nose State Park

North of Watonga



Rushing springs refresh the hardwoods in the canyon floor while the sun turns the chalk buttes and gypsum to silver. This makes for a stunning autumn scene as Oklahoma’s blue skies rest above the ancient mesas. Once a winter campground of the Cheyenne American Indians, Roman Nose is an astounding landscape known for its rich Indian history and natural beauty.

How to get there

The park entrance is approximately three miles north of Watonga and 19 miles south of Okeene on Oklahoma 8.



Chickasaw National Recreation Area

South of Sulphur



This area offers a variety of activities for the family all year. Its mineral waters, streams and lakes cater to boaters, swimmers and fishermen, while its forests and prairies reward wildlife photographers and fall foliage viewers.

How to get there

The park is on Oklahoma 177, just south of Sulphur. When coming from Oklahoma City, take I-35 and take exit 55 to Oklahoma 7.



Arbuckle Mountains

South of Davis



One of southern Oklahoma’s beautiful fall drives, the area surrounding Lake of the Arbuckles abounds with acres of towering pines and nature’s magnificent scenery. Another area of enchanting fall foliage can be found at Turner Falls, a water wonderland located just south of Davis on Oklahoma 77. Turner Falls Park is accented with beautiful picnic areas, nature trails, caves, geological wonders and two natural swimming pools.

How to get there

For a scenic drive, take Oklahoma 77 south of Davis. The park is located just off of exit 47 on southbound I-35 and then a mile south on Oklahoma 77.