Wichita Mountains National Scenic Byway

The uninitiated generally perceive Oklahoma as one big flat wheat field—remember that Rodgers & Hammerstein musical that celebrated the land “where the wind comes sweepin’ down the plain?” In reality, however, the Sooner State does have several “mountainous” regions. Although the peaks are more like speed bumps compared to the Rockies or Himalayas, they are a remarkable visual setting for the national scenic byway that meanders through this unusual terrain.

The Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Preserve was initially established as a Forest Reserve in 1901. In 1905, President Theodore Roosevelt, an ardent conservationist, issued a presidential proclamation that also made it a game preserve. Bison were introduced in 1907, Rocky Mountain elk in 1908, and a herd of Longhorn cattle in 1927. Other than staying aware of the large critters, this paved route is appropriate for almost any street rider. Be advised, though, that the three-mile-long road to the top of Mount Scott is steep and curvy, and strong crosswinds are possible. Proceed carefully both up and down the mountain.