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In progress
Project
Turkey Mountain Trail Access Expansion
Written by Josh Christner, Fugue Media
May 5, 2025
For many Oklahomans, Turkey Mountain is more than a park — it’s an integral part of their local rhythm.
From wellness routine to nature connection, Turkey Mountain allows Tulsans access to a wild space within the city limits. With an estimated 250,000+ annual visitors and more than 650 acres of preserved wilderness, Turkey Mountain has become one of the region’s most cherished green spaces. And now, thanks to a transformative partnership, it’s getting even better.
250,000+
Annual visitors
650
Acres of wilderness
A New Chapter Begins
In 2023, we provided a $2 million grant to the River Parks Authority to support the next phase of Turkey Mountain's development. This investment will fund an 88-acre expansion—called The Sanctuary—just south of 61st Street and west of Elwood Avenue.
The new area is set to include:
- 6 miles of new multi-use trails for hiking and mountain biking
- A treehouse-style overlook tucked deep in the woods
- New trail features and infrastructure to support safety and sustainability
- Long-awaited connections between existing trails and new parkland
Work is underway, and completion is expected by spring 2025.
Why This Matters
Outdoor access has long been tied to physical, mental, and emotional health. In Oklahoma, where chronic health issues continue to impact many communities, expanding safe and welcoming recreation spaces is more than a luxury—it's a strategic investment in public wellness.
The new area is set to include:
- More room for recreation, exercise, and family connection
- A safe, multi-use trail system built for all experience levels
- Opportunities for educational programming and nature engagement
- A chance to experience urban wilderness just minutes from the heart of Tulsa
By protecting natural land and increasing public access, this project helps ensure that future generations of Oklahomans can benefit from the restorative power of nature.
"I remember Dad used to go out there and come back “beat up”—his words, not ours—from a good bike ride, but always with a smile on his face from time well-spent."
Honoring a Passion and Building a Legacy
For our family, this expansion is personal. This was a huge passion project for Darryl. He loved mountain biking, and there was nothing he enjoyed more than spending hours on his bike at Turkey Mountain. I remember Dad used to go out there and come back “beat up”—his words, not ours—from a good bike ride, but always with a smile on his face from time well-spent. With him not being here, it's really special to carry forward what he envisioned for Tulsa.
This project reflects our broader mission: to improve physical, emotional, and mental wellness across Oklahoma communities through thoughtful, localized giving. Supporting Turkey Mountain aligns with that mission in every way, and the impact will be felt for decades to come.
Looking Forward
The Sanctuary isn't just an expansion. It's a vision realized—one that invites more Oklahomans into nature, encourages healthier lifestyles, and protects vital green space in a growing city. As we continue our partnership with River Parks, we're helping redefine what outdoor access can look like in Oklahoma.
Want to hit the trails?
Stay updated on the project.
More trails. More connection. More opportunity to thrive.
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