Exploring Green Country: 4 Spots with Amazing Scenery

Oklahoma's Green Country is a scenic area known for its lush forests and stunning waterways. If you're looking for a beautiful area for a weekend retreat, head to one of these cities for some vistas you won't soon forget.

Tahlequah – For Historic Highlights

The historic city of Tahlequah is the capital of the Cherokee Nation. Lose yourself in the natural majesty of the area as you tour the recreated Cherokee village of Tsa-La-Gi, scuba dive in Lake Tenkiller, or canoe the Illinois River. Densely wooded, many of Tahlequah's highlights offer a peaceful retreat from civilization where you can feel truly alone.
Elephant Rock Nature Park, marked by its signature towering rock, offers hiking trails through the Ozarks and breathtaking overlooks along the Illinois River. If you prefer to explore on wheels, the Cherokee Hills Byway offers a scenic drive with views of the Cookson Hills and lower Ozarks.

Broken Arrow – For a Suburban Welcome

Broken Arrow, Oklahoma is a charming suburban retreat in Green Country. The city's Bass Pro Shop is more impressive than most with a 14,000-gallon saltwater aquarium and a 7,000-gallon trout stream. You'll find everything you need to outfit yourself for a journey through the surrounding scenery. If you prefer your views more domesticated, you'll find a different kind of green to check out. Don't miss the Battle Creek Golf Club and Forest Ridge Golf Club, both with scenery you won't want to miss.

Tulsa – For Big Parks and Big City Amenities

Tulsa boasts more than half of Oklahoma's registered state parks, as well as more lakes than any other part of the state. You'll find several moderate trails in the area that are ideal for a day-long hike. The Turkey Mountain Yellow Trail for hiking and mountain biking is five miles out and back. Though it's surprisingly close to city amenities, the trail will make you feel like you're far from civilization.
At River Parks, you'll find 26 miles of asphalt trails. Stretching along the Arkansas River, this park has facilities for hiking, horseback riding, kayaking, fishing, and disc golf. Head to the summit of Turkey Mountain, and you can see Tulsa stretched out below.

Miami – For an Unforgettable Drive

Miami is often called the birthplace of Route 66. This historic highway has more miles in Oklahoma than any other state. The last section of the original "Ribbon Road" ends just outside Miami. Built in the 1920s, this area is an Oklahoma National Historic Landmark and a scenic view you should definitely take in. If you need to take a break from the road, head to George Francis Riverview Park. Spanning 127 acres, this park offers fishing, an 18-hole disc golf course, playground equipment, and picnic shelters, so there's something for everyone in the family.
When you need to get away from the bustle of everyday life, there's nowhere better than Oklahoma's Green Country. Put on your hiking shoes or just gas up the car and explore it in whatever way you enjoy best.