Turkey Mountain Tulsa: Hiking Trails & Outdoor Guide

Choose a trail from the current map

River Parks’ March 2026 map distinguishes beginner, intermediate and advanced shared trails, as well as hiking-only and bike-only routes. Use those classifications to choose a path that fits your group; a green beginner marker does not mean a paved or wheelchair-accessible surface.

The map lists Lochi at 1.2 miles and Little Loop at 0.25 miles, both marked beginner in the shared-trail section. For a walking-only option, it lists Stay Gold Hike at 0.50 miles. These are the lengths of the named trails, so include any connecting paths when planning the total outing.

Save the official map before leaving the parking area. Note the trail names and junctions you intend to use, then check the signs as you go. A shorter planned route is a better first visit than following turns without knowing where they lead.

Expect natural surfaces and changing terrain

Turkey Mountain’s wooded, rugged terrain is different from River Parks’ mostly flat paved river trails. Wear footwear suited to dirt and uneven ground, and choose the route for your group’s footing and energy as well as its distance.

Trail conditions matter as much as the forecast. If the dirt trails are muddy, follow the closure rather than trying to work around soft spots. Choose a paved River Parks outing instead when that better suits the day.

Trailheads, parking and facilities

The main parking area is at 6850 S Elwood Avenue. River Parks also identifies an upper lot at West 61st Street and Elwood Avenue and another lot farther west on 61st. Use the official map to choose the trailhead that connects with your planned route.

The map places the restroom and drinking water at the main trailhead parking area. Fill water before setting out and do not assume facilities will be waiting at every junction or upper lot.

If a particular surface or accessible route is essential for your group, ask River Parks before traveling. The paved river-trail system may offer a more suitable option than the natural-surface network.

Hiking and mountain biking use different routes

Many trails are shared, with cyclists required to yield to pedestrians. Stay aware at junctions and move to your right to let other users pass under the park’s rules. Follow the mapped direction where a route has one.

The Rock Yard is a bike park, with jump trails ranging from intermediate to expert. It is not a hiking route; pedestrians can use its designated viewing areas. The park directs newer riders toward the Skyline Jumps or Bomb Cellar areas before attempting the Rock Yard.

Riders should check the equipment and access rules on River Parks’ current Turkey Mountain page. Motorized dirt bikes are prohibited, while the page sets specific conditions for permitted pedal-assist e-bikes.

Weather, daylight and what to bring

Carry water, a charged phone and the saved map. Add the layers, sun protection and snacks that suit the weather and the route you have chosen. Bring water for a dog too, and keep pets leashed.

Plan the return before the light fades; River Parks notes that the natural-surface trails are not lighted. Stay on established paths and leave enough time to retrace your route if you decide to turn back.

Check both weather and the live trail-condition notice before driving over. Pack out litter and follow the park’s restrictions on camping, fires and glass containers.

Other ways to spend time by the river

For a gentler outing, compare the paved River Parks trails and their access points. Gathering Place is another outdoor choice across the river, with its own visitor map and rules. Keep a second activity flexible after a hike.

Find the main Turkey Mountain trailhead

Before you head out

Questions, answered