Hiking Isn’t The Only Thing To Do In The Wichita Mountains

Just a preface, I know absolutely nothing about climbing mountains. It just looks insanely cool.

Besides cruising up Mount Scott, the second most popular Wichita Mountain activity is hiking the relatively easy-going Elk Mountain trail. But on the Western edge of Elk Mountain, you'll find rock-climbers a plenty.

This is the area known as Elk Slabs. Seemingly flat, near vertical granite plates climbing high into the sky. And like most things in the wildlife refuge area, this is one of those places where experience pays off, but newbie's are more than welcome. The climbs range from new climber acceptable to some rather tough, technical, near vertical pathways.

The 'approaches' are pretty well defined if you can read basic maps, but it's always best to tag along with, and follow the lead of someone with a little experience. Someone who can guide you through the best and most practical ways of achieving something like this.

If this is an experience you'd like to toss into your life-bag, you might start the journey over at Mountain Project, as well as maybe get some local advice (I'd recommend Base Camp in Medicine Park.)