Have you ever visited two states in one day? Not only can you do that by car, but also via a nice, long hike while enjoying the sounds of nature and breathing in fresh air. The WOKA Trail takes hikers on a wonderful, nature-filled adventure that begins in Arkansas and crosses over the state border into Oklahoma. It’s also paved, so those with mobility equipment or strollers can enjoy spending time on this trail as well. Here’s more on the WOKA Trail where you can hike two states at once in Arkansas and Oklahoma:
How This Arkansas Trail Lets You Hike in Two States in One Day
When deciding on an Arkansas hiking trail that allows you to cross state lines, the WOKA Trail is hard to beat. To start this grand nature-focused day trip adventure, you’ll start at the Lake Francis Trailhead in Siloam Springs, Arkansas, home to the popular Siloam Springs Kayak Park.
Free parking is available in a lot off Raines Road. From there, you’ll hike or bike southwest on the multi-use, paved trail, crossing over the state line into Oklahoma. The trail’s terminus is located at the Waters of Oklahoma and Arkansas (WOKA) Whitewater Park on Twin Falls Road in Watts, Oklahoma. You also have the option to start the trail at WOKA instead and cross the border into Arkansas. However, the park charges a $10 parking fee per vehicle.
Trail Overview: Distance, Difficulty, and Scenic Highlights
The WOKA Trail is considered family-friendly. It’s also a paved mix of asphalt and concrete, and 6 feet wide, allowing those with strollers, wheelchairs, and other mobility equipment to use the trail alongside hikers, runners, and bikers. Considered moderately challenging, the WOKA Trail is a 5.9-mile out-and-back trek with 351 feet of elevation gain. Certain sections of the trail, mainly after the halfway point, have a grade of 5-8%, so assistance may be needed for those in wheelchairs. The trail should take 2-3 hours to complete.
As for the scenery, the WOKA Trail winds through the woods and along a creek. Depending on the time of year, you may even spot wildflowers. Keep your eyes peeled for birds and other wildlife as well. The trail is typically quiet, and you may even have portions of it all to yourself if you’re seeking some solitude.
Best Time to Hike This Arkansas Trail for Weather and Views
The best time of the year to hike the WOKA Trail is between March and November. These months before and after winter offer the best weather without the snow, ice, or freezing temperatures. The spring and summer will almost guarantee views of colorful wildflowers from violets and daffodils to black-eyed susans and purple coneflowers, while the fall will put on its own vibrant show as leaves change from green to fiery shades of red, yellow, and orange. Once you arrive at the end of the trail, which terminates at WOKA Whitewater Park in Watts, Oklahoma, you’ll have the option to take your outdoor adventure to the water by renting a tube or kayak. The whitewater park is open seasonally, so plan your day trip accordingly.
Hike Two States at Once in Arkansas and Oklahoma
If you’re looking for a different sort of hiking adventure that lets you cross state lines and visit two states in one day, the WOKA Trail is a fantastic option. For a trail map and conditions, visit AllTrails. You can also plan your own Arkansas hiking and nature trips by using Only In Your State’s AI-powered itinerary planner…