It's officially fall season and I couldn't be happier! I've had enough of this late summer heat and can't wait to turn on my fireplace and pull out the sweaters. One of my favorite things to do in the fall is to hop in the car and take an afternoon drive to enjoy the bright colors of autumn. The Talimena National Scenic Byway is by far the most popular and impressive place to enjoy this year's fall colors. Keep scrolling to see the beauty and spectacular colors you'll encounter on this 1-hour drive.
The Talimena Scenic Drive is a scenic 54-mile stretch of highway that will take you through the Ouachita National Forest. It stretches from Talihina, Oklahoma, all the way across the border to Mena, Arkansas.
The drive takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes without any stops. We recommend you allow at least a half a day to enjoy all the stops and small towns along the route.
You'll travel along the crest of Rich Mountain and Winding Stair Mountain in the stunning Ouachita Mountains and enjoy some of the best scenery in the state.
The golden hues of fall can be seen as far as the eye can see...and it's a place every Oklahoman should experience for themselves at least once.
One way to get the most out of this journey is to start early. The sunrise at Panorama Vista is worth waking up early. There are multiple places to stop and enjoy a breathtaking hike or several small cities that offer dining and shopping opportunities.
Cool mountain air and fantastic foliage combine to make this route one of the most gorgeous in the state. There are 22 scenic vista pull-outs along the way so there are plenty of places to admire the stunning views. Plus, there's a visitor center along the route where you can stop in and get more information.
Address: OK-1 Scenic, Talihina, OK 74571
For more information on the Talimena National Scenic Byway, visit their website here.
This lovely drive is very different in the wintertime, click here to see it blanketed in snow.
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