River Parks West Bank and Turkey Mountain Loop

You can typically find parking at the main Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area trailheads. The southern terminus of the River Parks West Bank Trail also has parking, which provides direct access to the loop. Be aware that the connection from the West Bank Trail to Turkey Mountain can have a challenging gradient near the parking area.

Yes, the Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area, including this loop, is generally dog-friendly. However, dogs must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other trail users. Please remember to pack out any waste.

The loop offers a unique experience year-round. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be hot, so an early morning or late afternoon hike is recommended. Winter hiking is also possible, but be prepared for potentially muddy or icy conditions, especially on the unpaved Turkey Mountain sections.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area or to hike this loop. It is a publicly accessible urban park.

Komoot rates this loop as 'moderate'. The River Parks West Bank Trail portion is mostly paved and flat, making it relatively easy. However, the Turkey Mountain sections feature rugged, unpaved dirt trails with significant elevation changes, requiring good fitness and sure-footedness. The overall difficulty depends on which specific Turkey Mountain trails you incorporate into your loop.

This hike typically takes around 2 hours and 20 minutes to complete, covering a distance of approximately 8.75 kilometers. This duration can vary based on your pace, the specific Turkey Mountain trails you choose, and how often you stop to enjoy the views.

The loop offers diverse terrain. You'll experience paved, hard-surface paths along the Arkansas River on the River Parks West Bank Trail, which are mostly flat. In contrast, the Turkey Mountain sections feature natural, unpaved dirt trails, winding through a thick canopy of trees, with serene ponds, ancient boulders, and noticeable elevation changes.

You'll enjoy scenic river views along the River Parks West Bank Trail. Once on Turkey Mountain, you can find expansive vistas, including a View of Arkansas River from Turkey Mountain, downtown Tulsa, and parts of Jenks from higher elevations. There's also a new overlook on the south side of Turkey Mountain offering stunning views.

Yes, this loop is part of an extensive network. It utilizes sections of the River Parks West Bank Trail and connects to numerous trails within Turkey Mountain, such as the Blue Trail, Powerline, Ridge Trail, Lo Chi, UHF, and Ho Chee, among many others. This allows for various route modifications and explorations.

The paved sections of the River Parks West Bank Trail are generally family-friendly. Within Turkey Mountain, there are easier, family-friendly gravel trails, including a mile-long loop. However, many of the natural dirt trails on Turkey Mountain are more rugged and may be challenging for very young children or those not accustomed to hiking on uneven terrain.

Restrooms and water fountains are available in the River Parks area, particularly near the main parking lots and park facilities along the West Bank Trail. Within the more rugged Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness, amenities are limited, so it's advisable to carry sufficient water and use facilities before entering the wilderness area.

For this hike, it's recommended to bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Wear appropriate hiking shoes, as the Turkey Mountain sections can be rugged and uneven. Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a map or GPS device (like the komoot app) are also advisable, given the extensive trail network.