Drive the Talimena Scenic Byway
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Added by Josiah Liston
An effortless, gorgeous drive along the the crest of a mountain range in the Ouachitas. Flanked on either side by numerous panoramic vistas, this route is sure to become a detour destination for every trip in the area.
The Talimena Scenic Byway is one of the highlights of the Ouachita National Forest. Running 54 miles along the crest of the Rich and Winding Stair Mountains, the drive is surprisingly easy and never boring. The whole drive is worth taking, but the Arkansas portion arguably has the most scenic portion(and much less arguably the smoothest roads).
There are 17 vistas along the route and almost all are worth at least a quick stop, most are incredible for sunrises or sunsets. On less windy days these vistas make perfect spots for a picnic with a view. As you are on the crest of a mountain range, the road between vistas is flanked on either side by massive panoramas of the surrounding mountainous forest.
The route is free, easy, handicap accessible, and gorgeous. Simply start on Oklahoma Scenic 1 from the Oklahoma side or onto Arkansas 88 out of Mena and enjoy the drive. If you can force yourself to leave the vistas then drive takes no longer than an hour and a half. The perfect detour destination.
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Reviews
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Great Motorcycle Ride
Very fun ride with plenty of lookout stops. The vistas are nice but not spectacular. Worth doing once to say you've done it.
4.0
Beautiful Windflowers
Beautiful country and wild flowers in the spring! Stunning yellow, red, green and blue contrasts.
4.0
Gorgeous scenic drive in Arkansas and Oklahoma during the autumn season!
The Talimena Scenic Byway is quite a site to see on both the roads in eastern Oklahoma and western Arkansas. There are many overlooks that you can stop by to have different vantage points of the Ouachita National Forest. Best time to venture on the Talimena Scenic Byway is definitely during autumn, but it's beautiful anytime of the year!
5.0
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Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on.
