Talimena Scenic Drive
Talihina, OK
A ridge-top road along the Winding Stair and Rich Mountains, lined with pull-offs over the Ouachita forest. Best in October for fall color; grades are steep, so use low gear coming down.
The Talimena Scenic Drive is about 87 km (54 miles) long and links Talihina, Oklahoma, with Mena, Arkansas. It follows the mostly east–west ridges of Winding Stair and Rich Mountain in the Ouachita National Forest, reaching about 790 m (2,600 ft). The road opened in 1969, was dedicated in 1970, and is Oklahoma's only highway built specifically for scenic driving. Along the way you will find historic sites, picnic areas, camping, Talimena State Park, and the Robert S. Kerr Memorial Arboretum.
Allow half a day for the drive with stops. Fall is considered the most beautiful season for its foliage, and many wildflowers bloom in spring. The weather can change quickly, and summer temperatures of 32 to 38 °C (90 to 100 °F) are possible. Because parts of the road have grades of around 13%, RV drivers should use a low gear on the descents.
- Nearest town
- Talihina, OK
- Category
- Scenic viewpoints
- GPS
- 34.7150, -94.7300
- Editor's pick
- ★
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
The most pleasant months are usually May and September–October. Still fine, with some compromises, in April and June. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Sources
Featured in these trip guides
Nearby
© Michael Barera · CC BY-SA 4.0Queen Wilhelmina State Park
© Thomas & Dianne Jones from Okmulgee, USA · CC BY 2.0Robbers Cave State Park
© Katelen Chandler · CC0Beavers Bend State Park
© National Trails Office (US National Park Service) · Public domainFort Smith National Historic Site
Campsites nearby
- Cedar Lake Equestrian CampMotorhome stopover4 mi from Talimena Scenic DriveMotorhomes
- Cedar Lake Shady LaneMotorhome stopover5 mi from Talimena Scenic DriveMotorhomes
- Big Cedar RV Park & CabinsMotorhome stopover6 mi from Talimena Scenic DriveMotorhomes
- Runestone RV ParkCampsite15 mi from Talimena Scenic Drive
- Mountain View RV ParkCampsite22 mi from Talimena Scenic Drive
- Camp PioneerCampsite23 mi from Talimena Scenic Drive
All campsites in Oklahoma · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026
FAQs
Where is Talimena Scenic Drive?
Talimena Scenic Drive is in Talihina, OK, at GPS 34.7150, -94.7300. It is about 29 mi from Mena.
Can you camp near Talimena Scenic Drive?
Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is Winding Stair Campground, about 3 mi away; within 25 mi there are 13 campsites and motorhome stopovers.
Which road trips pass Talimena Scenic Drive?
Talimena Scenic Drive is a stop on these CampingSpirit trip guides: The Talimena Scenic Drive, Oklahoma to Arkansas.
What is there to see near Talimena Scenic Drive?
Places worth a stop nearby: Queen Wilhelmina State Park (21 mi), Robbers Cave State Park (40 mi), Beavers Bend State Park (41 mi) and Fort Smith National Historic Site (49 mi).
When is the best time to visit Talimena Scenic Drive?
The most pleasant months are usually May and September–October. Still fine, with some compromises, in April and June. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)