The Talimena Scenic byway winds along the crest of Winding Stair Mountain (elevation 2400 feet) in southeastern Oklahoma on SH 1 ¹ and then continues into extreme western Arkansas on SH 88 along the crest of Rich Mountain (elevation 2681 feet) the entire 54 miles in the Ouachita National Forest (pronounced Wash-i-tah). The entire route takes one hour and ten minutes, that is if you can resist stopping to enjoy the many vistas and attractions along the way. However, a leisurely drive could take an entire day, or two if you do some camping at one of the two campgrounds along it′s route.

The two terminus of this scenic byway are near Talihina, Oklahoma and Mena, Arkansas but what is between is well worth spending some time examining because much of the forest along these mountain ridges are old growth. They were never logged because of being stunted and had little commercial value. There are 22 scenic vista pullouts and several hiking trails along this highway.

The current route opened in 1969, designated a National Forest Scenic Byway in 1989 and designated a National Scenic Byway in 2005.

What follows are photos while in the Oklahoma area of this scenic byway.

Some time later, I arrive at Queen Wihelmina state park, turn into the park and drive to the rest room for a hot shower. Once I am clean again, I leave the state park and continue east on SH 88 taking photos of the highway, mountains and scenery. Later, I arrive at the state line and stop at the rest stop where I park to take photos of the sign.

Here, I meet Joshua and a conversation ensues, which quickly turns into a Bible discussion. After a time, we both leave the roadside stop and drive about thirteen miles to Winding Stair campground, claim a campsite and I put the four dollars in the payment envelope.