You are driving along US 412 and there is pretty much nothing to look at and then all of sudden you enter about a 25 miles stretch of desert looking plateaus. Once you get on U.S. 412 in Orienta, right in front of you will be the Gloss Mountains. The Gloss Mountains got that name because of selenite content and sparkle of gypsum that makes them appear as if they are covered with a layer of glass. The view is nice there from the road. As you top the first big hill be ready for the park/picnic area on your right. When you stop at the park/picnic area, be sure and climb to the top of the plateau at the parking area there. There is a makeshift stairway and the view from up there is simply GREAT! The plateau is about a mile long. My son and I walked all the way the other end. We loved it!!! Also at the park is an information kiosk that covers the history and features of this highly unique patch of Oklahoma territory. During this ride, you almost feel like you are in the bottom of an ancient lake or ocean ... be sure and take a camera.
Towns/Cities You'll Pass By/Through
No urban scenery out here. Just a scenic drive that is in superb condition although a little boring as it is pretty flat and straight.
Attractions & Points-of-Interests Along the Way
Roadside amenities are very limited. Lucky to find a gas station with a clean bathroom. But there is a pull off on US 412 that allows you the opportunity to climb by stairway to the top of one of the plateaus. There are picnic tables with shade and I think a grill. The pull off is just about 1 - 2 miles west of Orienta, OK.
