Hiking Little Baldy in the Wichita Mountains
The Little Baldy hike is a popular trail located within the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, a protected area in southwestern Oklahoma, United States. The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge is known for its rugged landscapes, diverse wildlife, and numerous hiking trails
Little Baldy is a small, but mighty peak nestled within the stunning Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma. The open rock summit of Little Baldy offers visitors panoramic vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see.
The Wichita Mountains rise above the surrounding prairie in southwestern Oklahoma, near Lawton. The ancient granite mountains and surroundeding protected areas are home to bison, longhorn, elk, and many other animal and plant species. Much of the Refuge is open for recreation, including trails and routes like the climb up Elk Mountain.
The Little Baldy hike takes you to the summit of Little Baldy Mountain from the trailhead that begins at the Quanah Parker Lake Dam. The trail is approximately 1.8 miles round trip (in and out) and for the most part is an easy walk, though there is some moderate challenge as you ascend the peak itself, due to its steep inclines and rocky terrain.
At the top of Little Baldy, you'll have a great view of Quanah Parker Lake, the surrounding peaks of the Wichitas, the Refuge, and the surrounding plains. The summit of Little Baldy Mountain itself is a rocky outcrop that offers a perfect spot to take a break and soak in the scenery.
While the Little Baldy hike is relatively short, it provides a rewarding outdoor experience with beautiful views and a sense of adventure. It's always advisable to wear appropriate footwear, carry plenty of water, and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
On the way back down, you might just catch sight of some fossilized Sasquatch butt!
As we mention in the video, if you’re just passing through the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge and don’t have a ton of time for a longer hike, the Little Baldy hike is the one you should pick. It gives you a great taste of the mountains terrain (well worn and eroded granite), along with enjoyment of climbing an open rock peak that gives you 360-degree views of the surrounding area. The hike up Little Baldy is well worth your time.
The entire hike is about 1.8 miles in length and there’s about 160 feet of elevation gain along the way.
For More Information
Additional information about the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge:
Gear we used and/or carried on this hike (this was an easy, short hike and we really didn’t bring much besides water):
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