Walker Creek

If you and your pooch are looking for a pretty place to hike near the Corum, OK area, you’d be barking mad not to check out Walker Creek Trail! This pawesome path is part of a trail network that surrounds the scenic Waurika Lake. There’s plenty of free parking at the trailhead near Corum, about five miles north of the Walker Creek Dam. Though the thirteen-mile loop can be completed in a day, if you do want to explore the rest of what area has to offer, you and your buddy can set up camp at the primitive campsite by the trailhead. Walker Creek Trail truly is a little-known gem; this fairly low-traffic trek is an ideal route for pups and people seeking solitude.

Walker Creek is actually made up of two loops -- one that runs across the gorgeous bridge over the creek itself, and one that heads north -- so you’re covered even if you and your pooch aren’t up for a full thirteen-mile trek. The route meanders over gentle slopes, along the eponymous creek, and through fabulous forested areas teeming with wildlife, so you might want to keep a tight leash on your little tearaway if they have a tendency to tear after squirrels! If you can, visit in spring or early summer, when the native wildflowers along the route burst into bloom.

Walker Creek Trail is an easy enough walk -- the slight inclines mean that a basic level of fitness is required, but barring health and mobility issues, a stroll here is accessible to fitter furry friends and laid-back lapdogs alike. There are some tree roots and steps along the way, so watch your feet! One further point to consider -- spiders seem to favor the tree branches when it comes to making their webs, so those averse to our arachnid-American friends might want to give this one a miss. Remember to bring waste bags and water, and enjoy the beauty of Waurika Lake!