Kiamichi Mountains Iron Ore Railroad Grade

The Iron Ore Railroad Grade follows the abandoned Kansas City Southern spur that hauled iron ore from the Rich Mountain mines down to the mainline at Mena, Arkansas. Built in 1914 and abandoned after the ore played out in 1956, this railroad bed cuts through some of the most remote country in the Kiamichis. The signature obstacle is Tunnel Rock, where blasters carved a narrow passage through solid sandstone — your mirrors will get a workout threading modern rigs through Depression-era clearances.

Expect technical rocky sections, washouts where bridges once stood, and the occasional ATV traffic on weekends. Spring brings wildflowers but also the worst washouts; fall offers perfect weather and solid trail conditions. Stock 4WD handles most sections, but you’ll want sliders for the rockier passages. No permits needed, but the Forest Service closes sections during heavy rains. This trail pays off with genuine history and some of Oklahoma’s most rugged mountain country, far from anything resembling a crowd.