Heat Is Shutting Down Afternoon Hiking At The Wichita Mountains

Summer is heating up in southwest Oklahoma causing the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge to issue temporary hiking restrictions. Starting Wednesday, July 1, the refuge will be closed to all hiking after 10 a.m. daily.

According to the National Weather Service in Norman, areas near Lawton, including the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, are expected to experience unseasonable heat for at least the next seven days. The higher than average temperatures and the humidity are expected to increase afternoon heat indices over 100 degrees.

In response to the extreme heat, the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge has issued the temporary hiking restrictions for the safety of hikers and personnel.

Hiking restrictions at the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge went into effect on July 1 and will remain enacted until further notice.

The hiking restrictions at the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge went into effect on Wednesday, July 1. According to a press release, the hiking restrictions will remain in place until further notice. Below is the hiking guidance issued by the refuge that all visitors are expected to adhere to until the restrictions are lifted.

• Hiking will only be permitted from sunrise until 10 a.m.
• Hikers on trails and the Mt. Scott Roadway must exit by 10 a.m.
• The refuge will be closed to all hiking after 10 a.m. daily.

The refuge will remain open to motorized vehicles and bicycles. Doris Campground, fishing and picnicking will still be available during normal operating hours. However, backcountry camping will not be allowed. The refuge's Visitor Center will remain open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, and staff will be able to provide alternative suggestions to hiking or camping.

Visitors at the refuge are encouraged to practice heat safety if visiting during extreme heat.

If visitors do plan to hike the refuge during the allowed morning hours or visit the refuge during extreme heat, the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge encourages visitors to practice heat safety.

• Bring plenty of water.
• Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothes.
• Wear a hat or cap.
• Limit the amount of time spent outdoors.

If visitors experience an emergency or need medical assistance while on the refuge, visitors are encouraged to call 911. For more information about the hiking restrictions at the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, visit the refuge's official website. All updates regarding the refuge will be issued on the website and on the refuge's official Facebook page.

READ MORE: What To Expect On A Wildflower Walk In The Wichita Mountains