The Wichita Mountains can be seen for miles around. They are about a 20 minute drive from Elgin. They offer the opportunity to see wildlife, walk on nature trails, and experience one of the oldest mountain ranges on earth featuring breath taking scenery.
Wichita Mountain Wildlife Refuge is a tract of approximately 60,000 acres. The Wichita Mountains rank among the oldest ranges on earth. Formation of these mountains began some 500 million years ago when stratified layers of eroded silt were deposited. Through the ages, climatic forces have chiseled and sculptured the mountains until all that remains of once lofty escarpments are weather-reduced knobs and domes. Mt. Scott, at 2,464 feet, is the second tallest mountain on the Refuge, and the third tallest in the state. Mt. Pinchot stands 12 feet taller than Mt. Scott.
The Wichita Mountain Wildlife Refuge is the oldest managed wildlife facility in the U.S. Fish & Wildlife system. The Refuge provides habitat for many animals such as buffalo, elk, longhorn and deer. More than 50 mammal, 240 bird, 64 reptile and amphibian, 36 fish and 806 plant species thrive on this important refuge.
They are also rich in historical lore. There are legends of lost mines and cached treasures. Indians, lost Spanish gold, the James gang and others play an important part in the history surrounding the Wichita Mountains.
For more detailed information, check out their website at www.wichitamountains.fws.gov, call 580-429-3222, or plan an afternoon drive—just be sure to take your camera!