Tahlequah Tracks: J.T. Nickel Family Nature & Wildlife Preserve

PHOTO BY ZACH ELSEMAN

Some of the of the least-known and most beloved hikes in the Tahlequah area are located at the J.T. Nickel Family & Wildlife Preserve fifteen to twenty minutes from Downtown Tahlequah. The Nickel Preserve has three trails totaling nearly four miles of total distance through a variety of ecosystems including forest, wetlands, and grasslands. 

Trails at the Nickel Preserve are easy to moderate in difficulty and the short distance makes them a fantastic addition to a scenic drive through Cherokee County. The Preserve is managed by the Nature Conservancy and is well-kept throughout all seasons. Trail maps and conservancy literature is available at the kiosk near the visitor center. 

PHOTO BY ZACH ELSEMAN

Savanna Trail 

Leaving from the preserve headquarters, the Savannah Trail meanders approximately 1.5 miles up a hollow, then around the hillside through forest and grassland. Toward the end of the clock-wise loop, hikers will enjoy a scenic overlook spur trail that truly encapsulates the beauty of the nature preserve.

*Hiking Tip- Bring a camera with a long lens or binoculars to view the various animal and insect life on the trail. Most species of birds and butterflies in Oklahoma can be found in the nature preserve.

PHOTO BY ZACH ELSEMAN

Pine Ridge Trail

The trailhead for the Pine Ridge Trail begins in the preserve headquarters and immediately climbs the pine ridge for which it was named. The trail follows the ridge through areas of forest previously scarred by prescribed burns. The forest has regrown well and a plethora of butterflies and wildlife call this area home. 

Photo by Zach Elseman⎮@okienomads

Wetlands Trail

The Wetlands Trail is a short and flat 0.5 mile loop trail around a pond in the center of the public portion of the preserve. Hikers should expect to see beautiful views of the wetlands as well as high concentrations of birds. In the summer, hikers should expect encounters with chiggers and snakes. Watch your step and bring bug spray. 

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Trailhead Location: E 685 RD & N Pumpkin Hollow Rd.

Time to Complete: ~30-60 minutes each

Distance: 0.5-1.5 miles per trail

Surface: Forest single track with some rocks

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

GPX: 36.033734, -94.808515
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Nature Conservancy Information

Download a Trail Guide

​Notes: Please consult the above information for preserve rules. Dogs and bikes are not allowed on trails at the Nickel Preserve.

PHOTO BY ZACH ELSEMAN

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Written by Zach Elseman ⎮ Follow Zach at www.okienomads.com