Turkey Mountain to add almost 90 acres and 6 miles of trail in “The Sanctuary”
TULSA - Last week, River Parks Authority opened an additional nearly 90 acres and 6 miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking. Over the past four years, Turkey Mountain has transformed through the realization of key initiatives identified in the Turkey Mountain Master Plan. The opening of the Sanctuary Trails signals the near completion of renovation and trail construction outlined in the Master Plan.
With the opening of the Sanctuary Trails, Turkey Mountain will now have almost 750 acres of greenspace for Tulsans to enjoy. A $2 million gift from the Darryl & Julie Christner Family Foundation funded development of these trails and infrastructure. The centerpiece of these trails will be the “Treehouse Hub” which includes a large, elevated platform set underneath the canopy of a large oak tree and overlooking a serene pond. The Treehouse Hub will serve as the central location for the Sanctuary and a place where all trails connect. The two main entrances to the Sanctuary Trails will pass through “Moongates,” large circular stone structures reminiscent of Roman era bridges. After passing through the entry portals, users will find six miles of single track, cross country style trail with several wooden bridges, benches made from fallen trees, and three ponds perfect for stopping and enjoying nature’s beauty.
'We named the trails 'The Sanctuary' because a sanctuary is a place of peace, refuge, and protection - something really important in today's world.” says Josh Christner, Executive Director of the Darryl & Julie Christner Family Foundation. “Our vision is for these trails to be more than just paths through nature. They're meant to be a destination where individuals and families can reconnect with the outdoors, with one another, and with themselves. We've been intentional in every aspect to create a space where good things can happen, where community grows, and where people can leave feeling better than when they arrived.'
“Turkey Mountain has grown into a dynamic hub for families, athletes, and nature lovers, offering a balance of adventure, conservation, and community engagement,” said Jeff Edwards, River Parks Authority’s Executive Director. “With six plus miles of new technical trails, outdoor enthusiasts can embrace a more demanding and immersive Turkey Mountain experience. Designed with challenge in mind, these new trails celebrate the rugged character that has long defined Turkey Mountain.”
“It is a privilege to contribute to the expansion of outdoor recreation opportunities in Tulsa. We hope these trails will serve as a lasting source of enjoyment, connection, and well-being for the community” says Sammi Runnels with Rock Solid Trail Contracting. “Over the past few months, our dedicated crews have worked diligently to bring this vision to life. We take great pride in The Sanctuary and all that it represents, and we hope it will be embraced and appreciated by the community for years to come.”
The 89.5 acres are located south of 61st Street and west of Elwood; they are currently separated from the core of the park by a two-lane road. River Parks is installing two pedestrian crossings with rapid flashing beacons to access the new trails and acreage from Turkey’s existing trails and parking.