LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Cheadle Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Cheadle Falls
Cheadle Falls is a small, picturesque cascade tucked into the woods near Ardmore, Oklahoma. Nestled within the Chickasaw Oklahoma Tribal Statistical Area and on land owned by DESG (managed under the tribal designation TRIBL, manager: TRIB), the falls offer a peaceful pocket of rippling water and lush vegetation that makes for an easy nature escape. The Cheadle Nature Trail winds to the base of the cascade, where rock outcrops and a quiet pool create attractive photo and picnic spots for a short visit. The hike to the falls is best for those looking for a moderate, half-day outing rather than a long backcountry trek. At roughly 2.4 miles round trip with about 350 feet of elevation gain, the trail rewards hikers with a shady, forested approach and a gentle but steady climb. Pack water and sensible footwear, and expect a pleasant, family-friendly experience that showcases Oklahoma’s wooded stream scenery while traveling on tribal-managed land.
The Setting
Cheadle Falls sits at 696 feet within Chickasaw Oklahoma Tribal Statistical Area, fed by the Blue River, in the foothills of Oklahoma.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Cheadle Falls is a 2.4-mile out-and-back route with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain and is typically rated moderate. The route follows a well-maintained, wooded path that leads directly to the small cascade; footing is natural trail surface and the grade is steady but not extreme. Suitable for hikers with moderate fitness (and older children), the trail provides a short, scenic hike through forested terrain to the waterfall destination.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Cheadle Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Cheadle Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall may have reduced flow during dry periods.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall, especially after rain. Watch for ticks and other insects in the warmer months.
Current Water Conditions
40 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 26 years of record
5.60 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Blue River near Connerville, OK (12 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
40 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
40 cfs
5/10Wed
Low
46 cfs
3/10Thu
Low
52 cfs
3/10Fri
Low
48 cfs
4/10Sat
Barely Flowing
43 cfs
5/10Sun
Barely Flowing
42 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late April to late June, peaking in May.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Milburn hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
3-meter lidar shows the creek losing roughly 24 feet through Cheadle Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 692 feet.
The ground changes about 6 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 27 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing southwest, the falls sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 692 feet
- Measured by 3-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 24 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southwest
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Cheadle Falls is located near Ardmore, Oklahoma, and can be accessed via the Cheadle Nature Trail. The trailhead is typically accessible by car, and directions can be found using local maps or GPS.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the trailhead, but availability may be limited during peak times.
Elevation
696 feet above sea level
Coordinates
34.275649° N, -96.569167° W
Land Management
Managed by TRIB
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit during the spring or after rainfall for the best water flow. Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy after rain. Bring water and insect repellent, especially in warmer months.
Where to Stay
Best Western Atoka Inn & Suites
Motel 6-Atoka, OK
HiWay Inn Express
Super 8 by Wyndham Atoka
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
Pennington Creek
7.1 miles away · 0 sites
This recreation area is part of Lake Texoma
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Ardmore Regional Park, Lake Murray State Park
Wildlife
Visitors may encounter birds, squirrels, and other small wildlife along the trail.
Cities near Cheadle Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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