The Talimena Scenic Drive laces through the very top of the Ouachita Mountains as it meanders 54 miles along the crest of Rich Mountain and Winding Stair Mountain in Eastern Oklahoma and Western Arkansas. The byway showcases one breathtaking panorama after another, providing views of forested mountain peaks, magnificent woods of oaks and maples, and great outdoor opportunities for every visitor to enjoy. Talimena also passes through the Ouachita National Forest and Winding Stair National Recreation Area and offers access to recreation destinations such as Queen Wilhelmina State Park and Cedar Lake Recreation Area. Wildlife is abundant along the Drive and, as you drive across the mountains, you can spot a black bear or a roadrunner. Talimena experience is enhanced by fascinating historical and geological sites such as the rock glacier at Sunset Vista, forest's dwarf oaks at Castle Rock Vista and many more. Historical interpretive exhibits, scenic overlooks, developed campgrounds and abundant picnic areas can also be found along the Drive.

Food, gas, lodging, and other traveler services can be found 5 miles or more off of the Talimena Scenic Drive. Travel a short distance off the route to the towns of Mena, AR; Poteau, OK; Heavener, OK; Talihina, OK; and Big Cedar, OK where you can rest up, eat and shop.

The Talimena Scenic Drive offers some fascinating historical and cultural places to visit along the way. Places to visit in Oklahoma: Old Military Road Historical Site and Picnic ground, Panorama Vista, Horse Thief Spring Historic Site and Picnic ground, Kerr Nature Center, Sunset Vista, the only west facing vista on the route, Castle Rock Vista and many other. The points-of-Interest in Arkansas include: the State Line Historic Site, Black Fork Mountain Wilderness Trail, Pioneer Cemetery Historic Site, Queen Wilhelmina State Park and Rich Mountain Fire Tower.

             

*The full description of this official US Scenic Byway can be found here: Talimena Scenic Drive.