2018-2020
Using the grant money, the Wister Lake Trail Association was able to improve the trail by building more bridges, filling potholes, and resurfacing the trail.
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They also added benches, light poles, water fountains, and bike repair stations
A grant was written in hopes to improve Old Frisco Trail from the recreational trails program state sponsor $200,000.
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2016
Volunteers helped to plant over 500 loblolly pine trees along mile 3 of the trail.
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2025
2012
Large rocks were added as mile markers and boulders were placed in front of the trails heads to try and prevent cars from dumping trash and motorized vehicles from driving on trail.
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The 'Brave The Mud Run' was held for the first time in Poteau, OK!
Members of the community got together to clean up the trail and mow the tall grass to make the trail nicer for those that use it to exercise.
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2008
2000
Runners in Poteau started using the trail system.
Plans for the construction of Frisco Trail were published in the Poteau Daily News and Sun.
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1997
1995
Deed granted to Lake Wister Association for the rail bed to be used as a trail system. This conveyance was made in accordance with the National Trails System Act and is subject to the terms and conditions of the agreement dated March 29th 1994 between The Kansas City Southern Company and the Rails to Trails Conservancy.
Regenerative Forest Project
Old Frisco Trail has partnered with the Oklahoma Forestry Service to plant 9,500 trees along the middle of the trail in various bare areas. We are very excited about how this project will positively impact you, the community, and the entire world!
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These trees make the trail more enjoyable for those who use the trail for running, biking and horseback riding by providing shade during the warmer months and protection from the cold wind during cold months. It also increases the concentration of oxygen in the air, making breathing easier for those who enjoy strenuous activity on the trail. Additionally, these trees provide new shelter for many of the critters that call our community home, including endangered species like the American Burying Beetle and the Bald Eagle!​
A single tree can absorb 48 pounds of carbon dioxide from the air in a single year. Once matured, our new forest will be able to draw down 228 tons of CO2 per year!! This will help offset the impact of carbon emmisions because as trees grow, they absorb and store the carbon dioxide emissions that are driving global heating. We also hope the news about our new forest can help inspire others to get involved & pursue more reforestation projects!
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We hope you are as excited as we are and that you will help us and the Oklahoma Forestry Service keep the seedlings safe as they mature over the next few years. Please reach out if you have any concerns so we can address them directly and work towards community improvement together!
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The trail features lots of trees along most of the trail that provide great shade from the sun in the summer and helps block the chilly wind in the winter.
There are lights along the first half-mile of the Poteau trail start. There is also water fountains, benches, and a bike repair station on the Poteau side of the trail.
The truly adventurous can enjoy off-road mountain bike trails along the sides of the main trail.
Trail
Amenities
Events
Running events can be hosted at Old Frisco Trail, such as the annual 'Brave The Mud Run' that passes through the trail! If you are interested in hosting your event at the trail, contact us!
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The Poteau Chamber of Commerce uses the trail to host running events as well. Popular events include the annual 5k Glow Run and Half Marrathon/15k held in mid-September.
Policies
Everyone is welcome to enjoy Old Frisco Trail, however we do ask that you respect our policies and rules regarding the use of the trail.
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Motorized vehicles of any kind are not permitted on the trail. Such vehicles present a danger to other users of the trail and can damage the trail. In addition, the trail is not designed to accommodate motorized vehicles and may result in injury to the operators or passengers of such vehicles.
“Of all the paths you take in life make sure some of them are dirt.”
- John Muir
OLD FRISCO TRAIL
Old Frisco Trail is a retired railroad path that was gifted to the Lake Wister Association in 1995 and is now used as a recreational trail that runs 6.5 mi in length from Wister to Poteau. The trail is a favorite for walking, biking, and running among locals and visitors because of its beautiful greenery and colorfully painted bridges!
