Bert Cooper Trails

Embark on a diverse touring cycling adventure with the Bert Cooper Trails – Lake Hefner Lighthouse loop, starting right from Oklahoma City's vibrant Asian District. This route transitions from urban pathways to the serene, open expanse of Lake Hefner, offering a unique blend of cityscapes and natural beauty. The highlight is undoubtedly the iconic Lake Hefner Lighthouse, a striking white structure on the eastern shore that provides a perfect photo opportunity and a sense of coastal charm in the heart of Oklahoma. You'll enjoy mostly flat, paved multi-use paths, making for a smooth and enjoyable ride around the lake.

This moderate 39.3-mile (63.2 km) journey, with a gentle 651 feet (199 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 37 minutes to complete. The Bert Cooper Trails around Lake Hefner are well-equipped with amenities like restrooms, water fountains, and even lakeside restaurants, ensuring a comfortable experience. While the urban connection from the Asian District uses existing city trails, the lake loop itself is very accessible, suitable for a wide range of cyclists looking for a longer, scenic ride. Plan your visit during pleasant weather to fully appreciate the open lake views.

The Bert Cooper Trails, formerly known as the Lake Hefner Trail, are a testament to Oklahoma City's commitment to outdoor recreation, offering nearly 10 miles of paved path encircling the lake. Beyond the lighthouse, you might spot migratory waterfowl between November and March, adding a touch of wildlife observation to your ride. This route connects seamlessly with other major city trails, like the Hefner-Overholser Trail, allowing for even longer excursions and showcasing the interconnectedness of OKC's cycling network.

The Bert Cooper Trails – Lake Hefner Lighthouse loop offers a fantastic touring cycling route, characterized by its entirely paved surface and stunning, open views of Lake Hefner. You'll enjoy watching sailboats glide across the water and pass by the charming 36-foot white lighthouse on the eastern shore, a unique landmark. While predominantly flat, making it a moderate 24.8-mile (39.9 km) ride with only 457 feet (139 metres) of elevation gain, be ready for potential winds, especially on the west side, which can add a bit of zest to your 2-hour and 18-minute journey.

To access the Bert Cooper Trails from John Marshall High School, you'll need to navigate a short segment of city streets, including N. Portland Avenue, before connecting to the main lake loop. This initial road cycling portion requires awareness of urban traffic conditions. Once on the loop, amenities like restrooms and picnic areas are available in parks such as Stars and Stripes Park, and you can even find restaurants along the east wharf for a convenient stop.

This route is a standout for its accessibility and the iconic Lake Hefner Lighthouse, which provides a picturesque photo opportunity and a clear point of interest. The trail is popular among cyclists, runners, and walkers, offering a well-maintained and scenic environment for a variety of outdoor activities. During the colder months, the lake becomes a prime spot for observing rare migratory waterfowl, adding another layer of appeal to your ride.