Crushing fitness goals just got more fun.
With New Year’s Resolutions now in full swing, pressure to stick to the plan, achieve our goals and be better versions of ourselves is natural, if not inevitable. For those trying to increase exercise and activity in 2021, finding motivation and fresh new ways to do so can be especially taxing. Luckily, there are many incredible spots along Adventure Road for you to get your heart pumping and a change of scenery. The best part – many of them are free! Here’s our guide to beautiful locations and fun activities that’ll make you forget you’re even exercising.
Botanical Balance Free Yoga
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Myriad Botanical Gardens
Not only is yoga great for muscle strength and tone, increasing flexibility and maintaining a balanced metabolism, it’s also a rewarding way to relax and manage stress. Every Tuesday at 6 p.m. and Saturday at 9 a.m., beginners and experienced yogis alike are invited to enjoy free yoga at Myriad Botanical Gardens with instructors from the YMCA. Due to winter weather and the COVID-19 pandemic, classes have moved indoors to the lower level of the Crystal Bridge Conservatory. That means advance registration, social distance and masks are all required. Be sure to book yours now for one of the dates below.
Tuesdays: January 19, 26
Saturdays: January 9, 16, 23, 30
Climbing and Classes at Summit
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Summit (OKC & Norman)
If you’re looking to reach new peaks in your fitness journey in 2021, head to Summit Climbing Gym, with two locations along Adventure Road. The Summit OKC Silos offer climbers a thrilling way to exercise as they ascend the 90-foot-tall converted grain silos, and the 12,000-square-foot Norman location is spacious and features moon and kilter boards to try. Both locations offer top rope and lead climbing, bouldering, plus yoga and more fitness classes like TRX and Climb FIT. With youth programs and a supportive community of climbers to join, your time at Summit will be more than just exercise! Stay tuned to its social media for exciting events and special deals.
Hiking the Chickasaw National Recreation Area
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Chickasaw National Recreation Area
Take to the winding trails of the Chickasaw National Recreation Area and discover streams, waterfalls, wildlife and incredible natural history. The more than 20 miles of trails provide perfect winter entertainment for birdwatchers and hikers looking for routes of varying lengths. Trail descriptions will help guide you, or you can stop by the Travertine Nature Center and pick up a map of the park. Be sure to take advantage of the Lakeside Trails for a panoramic view of the Lake of the Arbuckles and the Bison Pasture Loop to see if you can spot the herd grazing. Checking out the National Park Service’s current conditions page before your visit is a great place to start!
Biking Around Lake Hefner
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Lake Hefner
The 2,500-acre lake on the northwest edge of Oklahoma City is a popular spot for visitors seeking everything from golf to birdwatching and dining. The 17-mile-long shoreline is paved so walkers, runners and cyclists can safely coexist and enjoy the trails all year long. As you’re strolling along, keep an eye out for the dozens of water bird species that call this area home! When you arrive at the lake’s signature lighthouse, restaurants like Louie’s Lakeside, Redrock Canyon Grill and Hefner Grill will be nearby to serve you up some tasty grub.
Nature Trails at Lake Thunderbird
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Lake Thunderbird State Park
Hikers, campers and nature lovers in the Norman area can enjoy Lake Thunderbird State Park’s nearly 2,000 acres of trails, marinas, RV sites and more outdoor recreation. Equestrian trails, located in the Clear Bay area, are open Wednesday through Sunday and cover four miles. A variety of hiking, mountain biking and nature trails are also available at the park. They range from the Clear Bay Short Loop, 1.2 miles, and Hog Creek Trail, 2.8 miles. Stop by the Lake Thunderbird State Park Discovery Cove Nature Center to see native snakes, animals, furs and artifacts on display and to get more info on enjoying the park.
Strolling Through Martin Park Nature Center
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Martin Park Nature Center
This 144-acre wildlife sanctuary is home to a variety of species, like birds, butterflies, foxes and deer, and visitors get to enjoy the tranquil setting 51 weeks out of the year! There are 2.5 miles of gentle hiking trails that are paved with gravel and packed soil to be ideal for outdoor lovers of all ages. If you’re in Oklahoma City and looking to escape the hustle and bustle for a casual afternoon stroll, this is the place to be! The Visitor Center is open Tuesdays through Sundays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Some trails may be closed for maintenance during your visit. Click here for more info.
Exploring Lake Murray State Park
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Lake Murray State Park
Oklahoma’s largest state park is packed with campgrounds, hiking and biking trails, golf, floating cabins and scenic views to find all around its grounds. Hikers and bikers of all intensity levels can enjoy the Lake Murray State Park Trail System’s 10 miles of trails that are looped to let you decide what kind of experience to have. Two main trails, the Anadarche and Buckhorn trails, are located on the west side of the lake with common entry points including the Pecan Grove picnic area and the Lake Murray Lodge area. Learn more about the trail system here.
We hope this guide gives you some inspiration for staying active in 2021! If you visit, be sure to take pictures and tag us on social media using #MyAdventureRoad.
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