Are there fees or permits required for Cheadle Falls?

No, there are no fees required to visit Cheadle Falls.

Is swimming allowed at Cheadle Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Cheadle Falls.

Live Conditions · 92 ft³/s · About average

Cheadle Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Cheadle Falls?

Yes, dogs are allowed at Cheadle Falls.

Oklahoma

By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026

Chickasaw Oklahoma Tribal Statistical Area TRIBL · DESG

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.4 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

350 ft

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

The Approach

The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

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 summer fall

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

Updated about 2 hours ago Barely Flowing

92 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

About average for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

37 44 122 423

Based on 25 years of record

5.81 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.

Blue River near Connerville, OK

USGS 07332390

7.7 miles from waterfall

Drainage: 162 sq mi

Altitude: 892 ft

7-Day Flow Outlook

Based on the USGS gauge Blue River near Connerville, OK (12 km away).

Moderate confidence

Barely Flowing right now

92 cfs

→ Holding steady

Today

Barely Flowing

92 cfs

5/10

Tomorrow

Barely Flowing

89 cfs

5/10

Sun

Low

99 cfs

3/10

Mon

Low

107 cfs

3/10

Tue

Barely Flowing

93 cfs

5/10

Wed

Barely Flowing

92 cfs

5/10

Thu

Barely Flowing

95 cfs

5/10

Best 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

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 Maps

Parking

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

Chickasaw Oklahoma Tribal Statistical Area TRIBL

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.

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With 2.4 miles and 350 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.