Mount Scott (Oklahoma) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mount Scott |
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![]() Mount Scott, the second highest peak in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, north of Lawton.
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Highest point | |
Elevation | 2,464 ft (751 m) NAVD 88 |
Prominence | 824 ft (251 m) |
Geography | |
Location | Comanche County, Oklahoma, U.S. |
Parent range | Wichita Mountains |
Topo map | USGS Mount Scott |
Geology | |
Age of rock | Cambrian Period |
Mountain type | Igneous |
Climbing | |
Easiest route | Paved Road |
Mount Scott is a famous mountain in Oklahoma. It stands tall at 2,464 feet (751 meters). The mountain is located northwest of Lawton, Oklahoma. It is part of the beautiful Wichita Mountains.
Mount Scott is also found within the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. The US Fish and Wildlife Service takes care of this area. You can drive or ride a bicycle to the top. A paved road goes all the way up for three miles. Hiking is also allowed, but there are no special trails. The paved road is open for walkers and bikes from 6 AM to 9:30 AM. Many people also enjoy rock climbing on Mount Scott. The mountain was named after General Winfield Scott.
Exploring Mount Scott's Location
The Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge is in southwestern Oklahoma. It is just north of the city of Lawton. The refuge is also close to Fort Sill. You can find this area near Interstate 44. It is about 90 miles (145 km) from Oklahoma City.
Sometimes, visitors might hear loud sounds. These sounds come from artillery training at Fort Sill. People sometimes think it is thunder. Mount Scott was once used for training during World War II.
Mount Scott is the second-tallest mountain in the Wildlife Refuge. However, it is the most popular and visited. The paved road to the top offers amazing views. You can see the wide Oklahoma plains from there. Mount Pinchot is a bit taller. It is about 12 feet (3.7 meters) higher. Mount Pinchot is located in a special area of the refuge. This area is closed to the public for wildlife management.
From the west side of Mount Scott, you can see other mountains. These include Elk Mountain and Mount Sheridan. Haley Peak is also visible. It is the highest point in the entire Wichita Mountain range.
Wind Farm Views
North of Mount Scott, you can see the Blue Canyon Wind Farm. Its large wind turbines are visible from the mountain's access road. They stand tall against the sky.
Getting to the Top of Mount Scott
You can reach the summit using a three-mile paved road. This road winds around the mountain. There are several spots to pull over and enjoy the views. Parking is available at the very top.
Bicyclists and people walking can use the road. It is open from sunrise to sunset. The climb is quite steep and has sharp turns. Strong winds can also be a challenge. Because of this, it is not the easiest route for beginners.
You can also hike up the mountain. However, there are no marked trails to the summit. Large groups of hikers (more than 8 people) are not allowed on the paved road. Still, visitors can park at the base. From there, they can hike to many rock climbing spots on the mountain.