Will Rogers Country Centennial Trail
The Will Rogers Country Centennial Trail is a full 18-mile hike that can be broken down into other minor hikes, including the Main Trail, Dike Trail, and Kite Hill Trail. You'll find five more miles of trails near the scenic 346-acre Tom Kight Hill, so whether you are looking to spend the day or just a few hours, you can easily find a trail that suits your needs.
The Centennial trail is continuous, designed originally for equestrian use. You will see a lot of horses, but hikers and mountain bikers are also fond of this trail.
Campers are allowed in designated areas of the park. Depending on the area you are in, you will find amenities like marina services, boat ramps, docks, campsites with electricity, parks, restrooms, picnicking and group picnic shelters. You can also go swimming and fishing along the lake.
Hiking through this trail will take you through 50,000 acres of land and water, including the beautiful Oologoah Lake, which is a Corps of Engineers managed lake. The area is mostly used for wildlife management, so you and Fido will definitely see some animals on your travels. Many game animals, like white-tailed deer, quail, fox, and rabbits, can be spotted, so Fido is required to have a leash while you explore.
You can expect the trail to be moderately level, with some inclines and declines. The trail was designed to leave as much nature as possible undeveloped, so you will be walking through loose terrain at times. There is a steep area on Tom Kight Hill. This part of the trail is considered challenging and not recommended for equestrian riders or the average hiker and their furry travel companion.
In addition to the scenic natural beauty, travelers along this trail can see the boyhood home (called the Dog Iron Ranch) of the trail's namesake, Will Rogers, located northwest, across the lake.
You can find this trail five miles east of the town of Oologah on Hwy 88, or 6.5 miles north of Claremore on Hwy 88. The trailhead itself is located just off of Hwy 88, east of the Emergency Spillway.
