Are you ready for a spectacular outdoor adventure? If so, lace up those hiking boots and head to the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge to the Jed Johnson Tower Trail for a fun hike. In fact, if you hike it in the evening as the sun is setting, it’s a magical experience you won’t forget.
Check it out:
There are so many places to hike in the Wichita Mountains but one of my favorite short hikes is the Jed Johnson Tower Trail - a 1.1-mile trail, out-and-back, that is lightly trafficked.
Larry Smith/Flickr
The trail is primarily used for hiking and running and takes you along Lake Jed Johnson and out to a tower overlooking the lake.
Az The One/AllTrails
All along the path you’re surrounded by gorgeous mountains, scenery, and wildlife.
Larry Smith/Flickr
The path is relatively flat with a few hills and the surface is a mix of dirt and rocks.
Matt Lussier/AllTrails
As you get up close to the tower you’ll see its incredible architecture. The 60-foot-tall observation tower was built in 1941 by the Civilian Conservation Corps.
Sam Cockrell/AllTrails
There is a rumor that the tower is haunted. Supposedly, it was closed off to the public years ago because of multiple suicide attempts. Some visitors claim to hear footsteps ascending the stone steps after dark and a woman’s scream.
Larry Smith/Flickr
It takes about an hour round-trip to enjoy the hike. It’s a great trail for all ages, and if you take it in the evening, it’s not only cooler but the sunset is stunning!
Larry Smith/Slickr
The Wichita Mountains is located in southwestern Oklahoma in Lawton. and is open daily from dawn till dusk.
Larry Smith/Flickr
Have you taken this beautiful hike before? If so, have you experienced it while the sun is setting?
Larry Smith/Flickr
Az The One/AllTrails
Matt Lussier/AllTrails
Sam Cockrell/AllTrails
Larry Smith/Slickr
For more information on the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, click here.
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