Fall Foliage walks to be held in refuge

The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge and the Friends of the Wichitas will conduct interpretive “Fall Foliage Walks”.

The walks will be start at 10 a.m. Nov. 18 and 25. Reservations are required and are taken by phone or in person on a first-come, first-served basis beginning Monday.

Fall Foliage Walks will take participants to select locations on the refuge to see maples, oaks, and sumac as they display beautiful fall foliage with the Wichita Mountains as a picturesque backdrop. Tour participants will learn about native vegetation and seasonal cycles that produce this outstanding scenery. Members from the Friends of the Wichitas serve as Interpretive guides for the tours, according to a press release.

Tour participants will meet at the Refuge Visitor Center located at the intersection of Oklahoma 49 and Oklahoma 115. Visitors may obtain a refuge leaflet and map from one of the dispensers located at each of the five entrances. These programs are intended for individuals and family groups. Each tour will last approximately three hours. Due to the length of the program, children must be at least 8 years of age to participate.

Reservations are limited to one family (up to six individuals) per telephone call. Restrooms are not available on tours. Wheelchair access to the bus is available if requested at the time of reservation.

Reservations must be made by calling (580) 429-2197, weekdays from 9-5 p.m., starting Monday. Reservations will be retained until 10 minutes before each scheduled program’s start time. After that time, standbys will be accepted. If the bus seating is filled after accepting standbys, late arrivals with reservations will not be able to participate in the program. Refuge tours are dependent upon weather conditions. Tours may be cancelled or modified if adverse conditions exist. Cancelled tours will not be rescheduled. Reservations are required.

For additional information, visit: www.fws.gov/refuge/Wichita_Mountains/