The Oklahoma Hiking Trail That Was Once An 1800s Battlefield
By Ashley|Published January 19, 2019
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Ashley
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Ashley has lived in Oklahoma for 30 years and is the Oklahoma staff writer for onlyinyourstate.com. When she isn't writing about Oklahoma, she enjoys visiting the beach and exploring new areas.
When you need a break from the hustle and bustle of life, hiking is a great activity to unwind. There’s a hiking trail in western Oklahoma that’s not only surrounded by beautiful grasslands, but was once home to an 1800s battlefield. It’s a great little hike to enjoy fresh air, history, and peace and quiet.
Located in Cheyenne on the Oklahoma/Texas border in western Oklahoma is Washita Battlefield National Historic Site at 18555 Hwy 47A.
The site marks the location of a surprise dawn attack that took place on the Cheyenne village of Peace Chief Black Kettle on November 27, 1868. Lt. Col. George A. Custer led the attack alongside the 7th U.S. Cavalry.
The Cheyenne suffered many casualties in the Battle of the Washitas. The military saw it as a notable victory toward diminishing Indian raids on frontier settlements.
The hiking trail is only 1.5 miles so it's the perfect hike for all ages. Look for the trailhead for Dust and Fire Trail and you'll see maps and educational material to educate you about the history of the battlefield.
Oklahoma has so many historical places but not all of them have a fascinating story behind them. Owen Park was the first city park in Tulsa, and let’s just say it began with a bang (literally!). Click here to read about the bizarre story of how this historic park’s pond came into existence.
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