Stillwater , Oklahoma
Oklahoma offers the nation ’ s most diverse terrain mile for mile and is one of only four states with more than 10 eco-regions . Located in the Central Great Plains of Oklahoma , Stillwater sits where sunsets can be seen for miles and the beauty of the open prairie roll out to touch the horizon . In the spring and early summer , visitors and outdoor enthusiasts soak up the outdoors and enjoy the lush plant life brought by the April rains , 80-degree weather , and diverse activities for a wide scope of outdoor interests .
Boomer Lake ’ s ecosystem and natural beauty gives way to a bird-watching paradise . Deb Hirt , a wild bird rehabilitator , professional photographer , and affectionately known as The Bird Lady , shares her watchful eye and vast knowledge via her blog , Photography by Deb Hirt , capturing the vast number of species and habitats found at Boomer Lake . Catch a glimpse of an eagle or egret on the three-mile walking and bicycling trail surrounding the water ’ s edge . The lake draws a fishing crowd and is stocked year around . Visitors may also enjoy the 18-hole disc golf course , five recreational pavilions , playground equipment and multi-purpose sundeck . Kayaks or paddleboards are for rent from White Rock Paddle Company for visitors to get out and explore the waters .
For those looking to explore Oklahoma terrain , the Stillwater 500 is a 580-acre playground for all terrain vehicle riders and motorcyclists . With 40 miles of motorcycle trails and seven miles dedicated for ATVs , the award-winning Stillwater 500 is the perfect place to explore the landscape on wheels .
Lake McMurtry is a mountain bicyclist and trail-runner ’ s paradise . The 1,155-acre lake is surrounded by four mountain bike trails totaling 27 miles . Each single-track trail is approximately seven miles and the Lake McMurtry trail system offers a wide scope of terrain from short climbs to challenging switchbacks through forested areas and prairie lands .
After a day of exploring and soaking up the Stillwater sunshine , Downtown Stillwater is the perfect outdoor setting to unwind during one of the Fridays , Food Trucks and Tunes Festivals . Held on the third Friday of the month from May-September , plan to come hungry with a lawn chair in tow . Food trucks line the streets , live music fills the evening air , and families , kids and pets unwind and play in the modern and fresh vibe of Downtown Stillwater .
For more information , go to VisitStillwaterOK . org .
124 Summer 2016 Adventure Outdoors Photo credit : Deb Hirt