The Rock Formations In Oklahoma's Black Mesa Look Like Something From Another Planet
By Ashley|Published February 23, 2020
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Ashley
Author
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.
One of the coolest places to see majestic (and unusual) topography in the state is in Black Mesa – located in far western Oklahoma in an area known as the Panhandle. In fact, it’s so remote you better gas up before heading to this area because there isn’t much out there. It’s not only famous for its night skies but the rock formations look like something from another planet.
Black Mesa State Park and Black Mesa Nature Preserve are located in the town of Kenton, along the tri-state border with Colorado and New Mexico. There's nothing around for miles and miles, which makes it the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
You’ll feel like you’re on top of the world if you hike to the top of Black Mesa - the highest point in Oklahoma. This spot stands at an elevation of 4,973 feet above sea level and boasts some topography that looks like another planet.
In fact, it has some of the darkest nighttime skies on publicly accessible land in the whole country. The nearest town is 36 miles away, so the only lights you'll see are the ones from above.
If you're interested in hiking to the top of the mesa, there is a trail to the highest point in Oklahoma. The trailhead is located at the Black Mesa Nature Preserve.