Features
About this place
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.
Leave No Trace
