By Marise Boehs
George M. Sutton Wilderness Park
Norman • 225 N. Webster Ave
This 1.4 mile loop is a popular area for birding, fishing, and hiking. Located in the city of Norman, it is a popular spot for runners, dog walkers and others out for some fresh air and exercise. It has numerous benches and rest areas. You may see small mammals such as rabbits, skunks, opossums, and squirrels, as well as birds and waterfowl.
It is open during the day only. Bring your own water and snacks as none are available in the park area. Dogs on a leash are acceptable. Bike riding is prohibited
Martin Park Nature Center
OKC • 5000 W. Memorial Rd
The OKC Parks and Rec website says this is “more than just a park, a hub for nature exploration and education for visitors of all ages. Guided hikes, education programs and an interactive learning center provide visitors a place to learn about nature and wildlife in a serene, suburban environment”.
But if you just want to take a nice nature hike this is the place. I walked about 2 miles and didn’t come close to covering all the trails. I had to keep reminding myself I was, in fact, in NW Oklahoma City. Although I heard no cars or sirens or trains.
Just don’t go on Monday or Tuesday as the park is closed. The rest of the week it is open 7am-8pm.
M.E. Copelin Nature Trail
Yukon • 2200 S Holly Ave (in City Park)
While this little nature trail is part of the City Park in Yukon it is nonetheless a beautiful little trail. It is very peaceful and quiet, not very long and can easily be worked in with a walk of the park’s concrete paths. Find it tucked away in the vicinity of the Holly Trail.
If you have a favorite park you would like to see highlighted let me know.
For more photos and details of the trails in this article, check out my blog at www.mariseboehs.com/blog.
