Much of Broken Bow’s attraction lies in its natural beauty and outdoor activities, such as boating, hiking, swimming, or bird watching. As we close in on the winter months, though, the colder weather can discourage travelers and locals alike from their open-air adventures. If you have a trip planned for November or you’re looking to take a relaxing vacation before the hustle and bustle of the holidays, we’re here to help! Today’s blog will cover Broken Bow’s best all-season activities, seasonal events, and new attractions to check out this month.
Tried and True Favorites
Family-Friendly Fun
Gutter Chaos
If you’re looking for a spot that perfectly blends a little chaos with a lot of fun, Gutter Chaos is the place to be. The moment you walk in, you’re hit with the sound of pins crashing, arcade machines chiming, and laughter echoing from every corner. Give yourselves and your friends silly names on the bowling scoreboard, let the kids run wild in the arcade, and slip over to the golf simulator to practice your swing without braving the cold air.
The outdoor seating area has this relaxed, family-friendly vibe, perfect for kicking back with a cold drink while the sun sets behind the trees. Inside, the bar is lively but still comfortable, which makes for a great spot for couples or groups to hang out and unwind after a long day of adventuring.
You can find Gutter Chaos just off Highway 259, right in the heart of all the Hochatown action. Whether you’re visiting with kids, friends, or just looking for a fun night out, it’s one of those places that feels instantly welcoming and full of energy.
Beaver’s Bend Safari Park
If you’re looking for something a little wild (literally), you’ve got to check out Beaver’s Bend Safari Park. This place is such a fun surprise! You can drive right through the park and get up close with all kinds of animals, from bison and kangaroos to the adorable pygmy hippos that look like something straight out of a cartoon.
When we went, it was a chilly afternoon, and the drive-thru safari was perfect for that. We rolled the windows down just enough to toss out some feed, and before long, animals were wandering right up to say hello. But the star of our visit was definitely the emu. It definitely smelled the food in the car, and it suddenly stuck its head right through the window! It tried to steal the cup of food straight from our hands and we screamed.
Here at the Safari Park, you can tell the animals are well cared for, and the staff clearly loves what they do. Whether you stick to the drive-thru or check out their walk-through and meet-and-greet experiences, it’s the kind of outing that leaves you smiling.
Rugaru Adventures Ziplining Tour
If you’re looking to add a little thrill to your Broken Bow getaway, Rugaru Adventures Zipline (or whichever zipline tour you choose) is an absolute must. Even though it’s an outdoor activity, the crisp fall air makes it perfect. The tour takes place in the Ouachita National Forest, and the views will blow you away. You’re surrounded by endless treetops, the smell of pine in the air, and that incredible, shimmering view of Broken Bow Lake in the distance.
Each line takes you a little higher and a little farther, and just when you think it can’t get better, you reach the grand finale: the zipline that glides right over Broken Bow Lake. The water sparkles beneath you, and you can see the forest stretch endlessly around you. It’s a perfect spot to have your GoPro or phone camera out to capture the moment.
Beavers’ Bend Mining Company
If you’re traveling to Broken Bow with kids (or you’re just a kid at heart), Beavers Bend Mining Company is such a fun stop! It’s one of those places that instantly grabs your attention when you drive by, with their colorful signs, running water, and excited little faces huddled around long wooden sluice boxes, panning for treasures. Be prepared to stay way longer than you originally plan to; this spot is a hit with the kiddos and adults alike!
Aside from the mining, there’s a dinosaur dig area, a neat gem and fossil shop, and even a few photo ops that are too cute to pass up. It’s clear the owners have put a lot of love into the place — it’s clean, well-run, and the staff is super friendly and patient (even with the smallest miners).
Hiking Trails
Believe it or not, our favorite time to hike is in the fall! The chillier weather makes strenuous hikes feel worth the sweat, and gentle walks become refreshing and energizing. Here at Blazing Trails, we are a bit biased when it comes to the trails we recommend (with the Skyline Trail right behind Viewtopia and the Friendship Trail in our favorite part of the state park), but we want to give you the resources to have the best November visit possible! This map has all of the hiking trails available in the park, but be sure to take a look at our list of great hiking trails in Beaver’s Bend:
Friends Trail
~1.5 miles – loop
If you’re in the mood for a hike that packs in forest, river, ridge-views and a good dose of “out in nature” without committing to a full day, the Friends Trail is an awesome choice. About halfway through the trail up into the forest, you’ll start hearing the water! The trail opens up above a waterfall, the perfect spot for photo-ops or enjoying the sound of the water during a rest. The return loop is a gentle hike, but you should still finish the trail with the impression that you took a good hike rather than just a walk.
To get there, you’ll take Highway 259A from 259, pass the reregulation dam, and right before you get to the Broken Bow Dam, you’ll turn right on Beavers Bend Road. About two minutes later, you should reach the parking lot to the trail on your right. If you pass the river you’ve gone too far! Once in the parking lot, you’ll see a little entrance to the trail that says “Friends Trail.” There is also direct access to the river past the gate on the far end of the parking lot if you feel like bypassing the hike and just want to see the water.
David Boren Hiking Trail
~12 miles – one-way
The David Boren Hiking Trail (DBHT) is a big highlight in the park’s network of trails. It’s made up of several connected sections: South Park Trail, Beaver Creek Trail, Deer Crossing Trail, Cedar Bluff, Skyline, and several others. We’ll highlight our favorites here and tell you the best places to access them. The sheer length of the trail gives you the perfect chance to decide what you want out of it. There are wonderful sections where you can simply stretch your legs in nature, or you can get a good workout in traversing hills and valleys.
If you would like to traverse the entire trail, make sure to plan for an all-day event. If you’d rather take it slower, you can absolutely conquer the trail over multiple days. However you choose to hike it will be rewarding in itself! The terrain is a great workout and beautiful all the way. This month, the trees are starting to lose their leaves and the winter foliage is settling in, which allows for picturesque views and the elimination of pesky mosquitos and ticks.
If you try a piece of DBHT, here are a few tips:
- Start early, because longer trails mean more time and you’ll want daylight.
- Wear good shoes, as the trail is rocky and steep in some places.
- Bring water and maybe a snack, as amenities on the trail are limited.
- Register/trail-head check-in if required (for longer sections) and tell someone where you’re going.
Skyline Trail
~10 miles – one-way (11.5 with loop)
The mileage of this trail makes it look worse than it actually is. Here at Blazing Trails, we have never actually taken the whole loop. We have spots that we enjoy visiting on the trail and we want to share that with you!
The first entrance is off of Beavers Bend Road just across the bridge past Friends trail. This is a nice spot in the summertime, where visitors can swim in the deeper water near the parking lot or ride tubes in the rapids. But we’re here in November! That’s when the trail comes in handy. Across the road from the parking lot, you can enter the part of the Skyline Trail that stays next to the river the whole time. You’ll pass rapids and waterfalls and be able to hear the rushing water throughout your hike. Since this one does not loop, you can choose to turn around whenever you’d like. No matter how far you go, you’ll leave with memories of nature and a few good calories burned.
The second entrance that we use is right behind our cabin, Viewtopia. The trail crosses Lake Ridge Lane high up on the mountain, and that gives us the opportunity to choose which experience we would like to have. Coming from the cabin, if you turn left, you’ll have an easier, but still sweat-inducing, hike that passes the easement and goes deep into the forest. After a big rain, the trail is full of little streams. Crawfish, frogs, and even armadillos have crossed our path when going this way! Since it is such a lengthy trail, you really get to choose your own adventure. We’ve used this one for trail runs, morning pick-me-ups, and long walks during quarantine when there was nothing else to do.
On the right side of the road, you have a bit of a tougher trail that goes straight to the river. And by “a bit tougher,” we mean that you should probably only tackle this trail if you are an experienced hiker. You’ll go up and down steep hills and if you take it all the way to the Mountain Fork River, it will be at least 45 minutes of strenuous activity. The river definitely makes it worth it, and we’ll spend a long time down there before going back up. If you take this trail, make sure you have good hiking shoes, water, snacks, and appropriate hiking clothes. We’d take this trail at least twice a week during spring and summer of 2020, and it was an amazing workout! We absolutely recommend it for any visitor, but we want you to be well-informed as well.
Deer Crossing Trail
We’re up in Broken Bow for short 1-2 day visits several times a year. Typically, it is to maintain the cabins, fix something broken, or redecorate. But even on the shortest trips, we make sure to include Deer Crossing Trail. It doesn’t loop around, so the way we prefer to hike it is to take the trail from 259A and walk uphill to the lookout spot. You can see the tops of cabins tucked into the hillside and hear the echoes of anyone near the river. It’s a beautiful overlook and not a difficult hike, so we make sure to take it every visit as an easy way to increase our heart rates and get some exercise in.
Forest Heritage Tree Trail
If you’re looking for a short nature walk, you’ve found the perfect hike! You can park at the Forest Heritage Center and enter the trail from there. There are a few other trails just off of the parking lot, but our favorite is the Tree Trail. You’ll get a relaxing, refreshing walk in the great outdoors, surrounded by pine trees and a sweet breeze in the month of November. After your hike, you can visit the museum to get a glimpse of the area’s rich history!
Forest Heritage Center Museum
Speaking of the Forest Heritage Center, if you’re looking for an indoor activity that’s both educational and fascinating, this spot is a must-see. Tucked right in the middle of Beavers Bend State Park, it’s the perfect change of pace after hiking the trails or exploring outdoors with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Make sure to slow down at every exhibit. The museum highlights the rich history of Oklahoma’s forests, the logging industry that helped shape the area, and the people who made a living from the land long before it became the cozy cabin destination we all know today. There are giant dioramas, vintage logging equipment, and even a few art pieces, including some gorgeous wood sculptures and murals that make you appreciate how much creativity comes out of this part of the state.
And here’s the best part is that it’s completely free to visit and open year-round! On a chilly or rainy day, it’s the perfect way to stay cozy while still soaking up that Beavers Bend magic. Whether you’re into history, art, or just need a low-key break from outdoor adventures, the Forest Heritage Center hits that perfect balance of interesting and relaxing.
Coffee and Donuts
In the brisk fall air, sometimes all you want is a warm, delicious cup of coffee and hot chocolate (and maybe a pastry to go with it!). So we’ve gathered up our favorite coffee shops and donut shops to give you the comfiest, coziest Oklahoma experience you can dream of!
Okie Girls Coffee & Ice Cream
There’s something extra comforting about stepping into Okie Girls on a chilly morning. The smell of espresso and freshly baked pastries instantly wraps around you like a blanket, and their lattes are smooth and rich. If you’re feeling indulgent, you have to try one of their signature milkshakes or affogatos. The cozy, rustic interior and friendly baristas make it a spot you’ll want to linger in while watching the mist roll off the pines outside.
Donut Crossing
Donut Crossing is the kind of place that feels like small-town magic. Warm light spills in from the windows and the scent of fresh donuts pulls you in before you’ve even parked. On cold mornings, the glass case is full of colorful pastries and melt-in-your-mouth classics, and the coffee is hot, strong, and served with a smile. It’s that perfect, old-fashioned combo of caffeine, sugar, and genuine friendliness that makes you want to start every day in Broken Bow right in this donut shop.
Hochatown Coffee Central
The vibe here is cozy-cabin chic, the kind of place where you can warm up after a frosty hike and sip something seasonal while chatting with other vacationers or locals. Their specialty drinks rotate with the seasons (the winter peppermint mocha and caramel brûlée latte are our faves), and their pastries are baked fresh and perfectly flaky. It’s equal parts coffee shop and community hangout, with soft music, comfy seating, and the kind of warmth that only comes from a truly local spot.
Broken Banana Coffee Co.
The playful, laid-back vibe here instantly brightens even the grayest day, and their creative coffee flavors (banana bread lattes and coconut mochas?) are a delicious twist on the usual winter lineup. Pair your drink with one of their house-made pastries or muffins, grab a seat by the window, and enjoy that perfect blend of cozy warmth and cheerful vacation energy.
Eateries
Considering the time of year, we’ve put together a list of restaurants with ample indoor seating and/or a cozy outdoor atmosphere. Whether you’re visiting Hochatown for the first time or a seasoned traveler in the area, this list should hit you with the classics and restaurants you have yet to visit.
Grateful Head
This pizzeria is quite popular and well-known. Their building/venue is accommodating in the winter, as the inside has a cozy vibe, and the outdoor patios are covered and have heaters. Every Broken Bow visitor has to visit this spot at least once. Their pizza is unique and flavorful and all around delicious, especially if you are a fan of pizza crust! Their wings are baked in the pizza oven and are to die for.
Mountain Fork Brewery
Yes, this restaurant is called a brewery, but they also sell pizza! A completely different type than Grateful Head’s, the pizza is a hit with tourists and locals alike. They have a variety of other foods, and everything we have tried there has been delightful. They have a large indoor seating area where you can look inside the brewery! It’s pretty neat!
Buffalo Grill
Burgers, barbecue, salads, and any other American cuisine you can think of is served here. A personal favorite is the brisket mac and cheese, but don’t just take it from us. Their indoor seating is equipped for numerous guests and whatever corner of the restaurant you sit in will be a great one!
Abendigo’s
If your family cannot decide on a type of cuisine to dine on for dinner, Abendigo’s is the place to go! They serve a wide variety of scrumptious dishes that will please the whole family. They have great indoor seating; it is a large building that fits many guests, but doesn’t feel cramped.
Papa Poblano’s
In the mood for great Mexican food? Papa Poblano’s is where it’s at! Expect a colorful and flavorful adventure in the colder winter months. The food is wonderful and the atmosphere is great!
Drinks and Entertainment
If you’re looking for more adult-oriented activities in Broken Bow, you’ve come to the right place. There are a host of bars, breweries, wineries, and fun that you can have without the kiddos!
Hochatown Saloon
This local favorite serves up hearty food, cold drinks, and a dose of Oklahoma charm. They’ve got live music on weekends, a big dance floor, and a fun, come-as-you-are vibe that makes everyone feel like a local. Whether you’re grabbing a burger with the family or line dancing late into the night, Hochatown Saloon is where Broken Bow comes to let loose.
Girls Gone Wine
In the cooler months, the tasting room feels extra inviting, with twinkling lights, laughter from the tables, and the smell of rich, fruity wines filling the air. It’s a perfect spot to warm up after a day exploring the park. Grab a glass of their locally made wine and browse the boutique full of quirky gifts and cozy winter finds. They have free tastings, and our favorite wine around this season is their cranberry wine! Whether you’re there with friends or your partner, it’s the kind of spot where you end up staying longer than planned, chatting, sipping, and soaking up that Hochatown charm.
Choctaw Landing Casino
When the nights get cold and you’re looking for something lively indoors, the mix of flashing lights, the hum of slot machines, and the sound of travelers trying their luck is where it’s at. It’s more than just gaming, though; you can grab a drink, enjoy a good meal, and listen to live music without ever stepping back into the cold. On winter evenings, it’s the perfect place to trade in your hiking boots for a little excitement and maybe end the night with a lucky streak.
Hochatown Distilling Co.
The atmosphere here is laid-back yet sophisticated. Their small-batch bourbons and vodkas are crafted right on-site, and the guided tours give you a behind-the-scenes peek at how it all comes together. The best part? The tasting room. On a chilly day, sipping a smooth pour while chatting with the friendly staff feels like the ultimate cabin getaway experience. Whether you’re a whiskey enthusiast or just curious, it’s an inviting spot to slow down, savor, and enjoy a true taste of Hochatown craftsmanship.
November Special Events
Beavers’ Bend Folk Festival and Craft Show – November 14-16, 2025
November is a special time at the Forest Heritage Museum, which hosts the Beavers’ Bend Folk Festival and Craft Show every year. If you’re in the area that weekend, check it out! There are artisans showing their turn-of-the-century craft (hand-spinning yarn, basket weaving, paper making, blacksmithing, etc.), live music performances, festival food, a petting zoo, and hands-on craft areas. Take a look at TravelOK’s page to learn how to participate!
If you’re new here, welcome to Blazing Trails! We’re a cabin rental agency based in Broken Bow, Oklahoma. We’ve been operating since 2017 and consider ourselves well-acquainted with the area. Whether you are vacationing with us or just curious about what’s going on in our little corner of Oklahoma, we’re glad you stopped by and we hope you have a fantastic and memorable vacation!