Highlight • Bridge
Lake Overholser Bridge
Cycling
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Road cycling
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Running
5.0
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Hiking
5.0
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The Lake Overholser Bridge is a historic steel-truss bridge located in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, spanning the North Canadian River just south of Lake Overholser. Standing at an elevation of approximately 357 meters, this architectural landmark is renowned for its distinctive design, incorporating both Parker through trusses and camelback Warren pony trusses. It holds significant historical value as a vital component of the original U.S. Route 66, the iconic "Mother Road," connecting Oklahoma City with western Oklahoma.
Visitors consistently praise the bridge for its tangible connection to American history and its picturesque setting. Many are drawn to its elegant iron truss structure and the scenic views it offers, particularly during sunrise or sunset over the North Canadian River. The bridge serves as a proud reminder of the early days of Route 66, making it a must-see for history buffs and enthusiasts of the legendary highway.
For those planning a visit, the Lake Overholser Bridge is easily accessible for pedestrians and cyclists, with convenient parking available at the adjacent Route 66 Park. The area is considered family-friendly and dog-friendly, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely outing. Interpretive signage provides rich historical context, allowing visitors to delve deeper into the bridge's past. Its wheelchair-accessible nature ensures that a wide range of visitors can enjoy this historic site.
The bridge and its surroundings offer a blend of natural beauty and historical resonance, making it a rewarding destination year-round. It's an excellent spot for a leisurely walk or a bike ride, with kayakers often seen paddling beneath its arches. The nearby Route 66 Park further enhances the experience, providing additional outdoor activities and celebrating the historic highway.
Many visitors enjoy walking the 748-foot length of the bridge, taking in the unique engineering and the surrounding landscape. The experience offers a quiet moment to reflect on the bridge's storied past and its role in connecting communities across the nation.
Beyond its historical significance, the Lake Overholser Bridge provides a tranquil escape within Oklahoma City. Hikers and cyclists appreciate the opportunity to explore the area, often combining a visit to the bridge with a stroll or ride along the shores of Lake Overholser. The combination of the bridge and the adjacent park creates an ideal detour for anyone exploring Oklahoma City's Route 66 heritage.
Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or simply a pleasant outdoor experience, the Lake Overholser Bridge offers a unique destination. You can discover a variety of walking routes and cycling paths around the lake and river, making it easy to plan your visit and explore the area. The komoot route planner can help you find the perfect trail to experience this historic landmark and its scenic surroundings.
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April 28, 2020
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August 16, 2023
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Lake Overholser Bridge
5.0
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15
riders
45.7km
02:37
110m
110m
The Bert Cooper and Hefner-Overholser Trails offer a fantastic touring cycling experience, combining two of Oklahoma City's prominent lake routes. You'll enjoy picturesque views of Lake Hefner, complete with its distinctive lighthouse, before heading towards Lake Overholser and its historic bridge. This moderate 28.4-mile (45.7 km) journey, with a gentle 367 feet (112 metres) of elevation gain, is mostly flat and paved, making it a great option for a longer ride that takes around 2 hours and 37 minutes. Expect open lakeside scenery and a few glimpses of urban wilderness as you cycle.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as these trails are known for their accessibility and amenities. You'll find numerous parking areas, restrooms, and water fountains along the route, particularly around the lakes. The trails are well-maintained, and some sections even feature dedicated lanes for cyclists, ensuring a smooth and safe ride. Consider starting your ride from one of the many access points around Lake Hefner, where you can also find lakeside restaurants for a post-ride meal.
What makes this route stand out is its blend of natural beauty and historical significance, especially the connection to the old Route 66 via the Overholser Bridge. While the terrain is generally easy, the length of the combined Bert Cooper and Hefner-Overholser Trails touring cycling route elevates its difficulty to moderate, making it a rewarding challenge for those looking to cover some distance. Be mindful of the wind, which can be a significant factor in the open lakeside environment, especially during certain times of the year.
135km
07:44
470m
470m
This difficult 83.7-mile touring bicycle route from Edmond to Reno follows historic Route 66, offering 1544 feet of elevation gain and sceni
3.5
(2)
31
riders
63.2km
03:38
200m
200m
Embark on a diverse touring cycling adventure with the Bert Cooper Trails – Lake Hefner Lighthouse loop, starting right from Oklahoma City's vibrant Asian District. This route transitions from urban pathways to the serene, open expanse of Lake Hefner, offering a unique blend of cityscapes and natural beauty. The highlight is undoubtedly the iconic Lake Hefner Lighthouse, a striking white structure on the eastern shore that provides a perfect photo opportunity and a sense of coastal charm in the heart of Oklahoma. You'll enjoy mostly flat, paved multi-use paths, making for a smooth and enjoyable ride around the lake.
This moderate 39.3-mile (63.2 km) journey, with a gentle 651 feet (199 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 37 minutes to complete. The Bert Cooper Trails around Lake Hefner are well-equipped with amenities like restrooms, water fountains, and even lakeside restaurants, ensuring a comfortable experience. While the urban connection from the Asian District uses existing city trails, the lake loop itself is very accessible, suitable for a wide range of cyclists looking for a longer, scenic ride. Plan your visit during pleasant weather to fully appreciate the open lake views.
The Bert Cooper Trails, formerly known as the Lake Hefner Trail, are a testament to Oklahoma City's commitment to outdoor recreation, offering nearly 10 miles of paved path encircling the lake. Beyond the lighthouse, you might spot migratory waterfowl between November and March, adding a touch of wildlife observation to your ride. This route connects seamlessly with other major city trails, like the Hefner-Overholser Trail, allowing for even longer excursions and showcasing the interconnectedness of OKC's cycling network.
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Elevation 360 m
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Max wind speed: 36.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the exact address of the Lake Overholser Bridge?
The Lake Overholser Bridge is located at 8703-8709 Overholser Drive, Bethany, OK 73008. It spans the North Canadian River, just south of Lake Overholser.
Are there specific walking or cycling routes around the Lake Overholser Bridge?
Yes, beyond just crossing the bridge, there are various walking and cycling paths around Lake Overholser and along the North Canadian River. The adjacent Route 66 Park also offers trails that connect to the wider lake area, providing opportunities for longer excursions.
What is the terrain and difficulty level of trails near Lake Overholser Bridge?
The trails around Lake Overholser and the bridge are generally considered easy with minimal elevation changes, making them suitable for most fitness levels. The terrain is typically paved or well-maintained gravel, ideal for leisurely walks, runs, or bike rides.
Is public transportation available to reach the Lake Overholser Bridge?
While direct public transport routes to the bridge itself may be limited, visitors can check local Oklahoma City transit options (EMBARK) for routes that get them close to the Lake Overholser area, from which a short ride-share or walk might be necessary.
What amenities are available near the Lake Overholser Bridge, such as cafes or restrooms?
The immediate vicinity of the bridge, particularly at Route 66 Park, offers restrooms and picnic areas. For cafes, pubs, or more extensive dining options, visitors would need to venture a short distance into nearby Bethany or other parts of Oklahoma City.
How long does it typically take to walk across the Lake Overholser Bridge?
The Lake Overholser Bridge is 748 feet (approximately 228 meters) long. A leisurely walk across the bridge and back would likely take about 10-15 minutes, allowing time to appreciate the views and read interpretive signage.
What kind of wildlife can be observed near the Lake Overholser Bridge?
The area around Lake Overholser and the North Canadian River is home to various bird species, especially waterfowl. Visitors might spot ducks, geese, herons, and other migratory birds. Small mammals and fish are also present in the ecosystem.
Is the Lake Overholser Bridge suitable for a winter visit or walk?
Yes, the Lake Overholser Bridge is accessible year-round. While winter weather in Oklahoma City can bring cold temperatures, the bridge and surrounding trails remain open. Dress warmly and be mindful of any icy conditions on paths or the bridge deck during freezing temperatures.
Are there any loop trails that incorporate the Lake Overholser Bridge?
Yes, several loop trails around Lake Overholser can incorporate a crossing of the historic bridge. These loops vary in length, often utilizing the paths within Route 66 Park and along the lake's perimeter, offering scenic views and a good workout for hikers and cyclists.
What makes the Lake Overholser Bridge historically significant beyond being part of Route 66?
Beyond its role on Route 66, the bridge is significant for its unique engineering, combining Parker through trusses and camelback Warren pony trusses, which was innovative for its time. It was also built in 1924 to replace a bridge destroyed by the 1923 floods, highlighting its importance in connecting communities and ensuring transportation continuity.
Are there any permits required to visit or use the trails around Lake Overholser Bridge?
No, there are no permits required for general visitation, walking, or cycling on the Lake Overholser Bridge or the public trails within Route 66 Park and around Lake Overholser. It is freely accessible to the public.