Name: Mount Scott Service Road
Rating: 4.9

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Features Fall Colors · Spring · Views · Wildlife

Dense fog or heavily iced conditions may cause this route to be closed.

The sign at the entrance says "Pedestrian Groups Prohibited", which refers to large groups since the road is fairly narrow. A single or a few runners together are allowed. No alcohol is allowed on the property. It opens at 9 a.m. daily, and closes around 8 p.m. or sunset, whichever comes first.
The paved road is open to pedestrians and bicycles from 6am to 9:30 am only.

Runner Notes

Be aware of cars driving up and down the mountain. Stay close to the guard rails.

Description

Mount Scott is one of the highest peaks in Oklahoma, located in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, approximately 25 miles north of Lawton.

Traveling from the small town of Medicine Park, Mt. Scott's service road entrance will be on your right. Parking is available if you take a left onto an unimproved road at Mt. Scott Picnic Area.

This trail doubles as a scenic drive and some areas are narrow, so take caution and be vigilant when running up. Cars will pass by you.

From the parking area, cross the road past the entrance and begin your run. Just follow the road up and enjoy the views. The incline is fairly steep off the bat and curls you about 3 miles up to the summit of the mountain. A lot of wildlife can be seen on the way up including buzzards, birds, and even an American buffalo or long horn (not along the trail, but in view in the rest of the refuge).

Once you reach the top, there are numerous lookout areas to absorb the incredible scenery. This is one of the highest peaks in Oklahoma, and from it you can see absolutely incredible stretches of the plains. Overall, this is an easy run that is certainly worth the views. There are also numerous technical climbing routes on Mt. Scott that are accessible from this trail.

Flora & Fauna

According to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, 240 species of birds, 50 species of mammals, 64 species of reptiles and amphibians, and 36 species of fish have been documented. These include American buffalo, elk, white-tailed deer, river otters, prairie dogs, Texas longhorns, and more.