Talimena Scenic Drive

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Filed By: Don Jones (Broken Arrow, OK)
Number of People Encountered: 50+ ppl
Recommend to a Friend: Highly
Report: I have toured the famed Talimena Drive many times in an automobile over the years, but this was the first time that I have experienced the drive on a motorcycle. Sunday, September 1, at 9:30 a.m. four couples left Coweta on bikes. We took all back roads, keeping off the main highways as much as possible. We arrived in Talihina about 3:00 after passing through such Oklahoma metropoli as Haskell, Boynton, Quinton, and Wilburton. We stopped at a few of the vistas for the views but mostly just motored slowly along to enjoy some of the most beautiful scenery in America. The very first vista traveling from west to east is probably the best because you can capture the view to the south as well as the north. If you have never been on the drive please plan to do so immediately. The best time of course is in the autumn but there is never a bad time. We also stopped at Queen Wilhelmina Lodge near the east of end of the drive. I understand they have excellent food and views are spectacular. Rooms are available but you need to plan in advance. We spent the night in Mena at the Sundowner Inn. The rooms were new and clean, and they provided 'bike towels.' Be aware that not all the local restaurants are open on Sunday and for those of you so inclined, Polk County is dry, if you know what I mean. As you enjoy the scenic Talimena Drive, keep reminding yourself that you are in Oklahoma. Have a safe trip.

Additional Information:
Oklahoma Scenic Byways - Talimena Scenic Drive is Oklahoma's designated scenic byway. It is a National Forest Byway.

Links:
Scenic Byways Homepage - National Scenic Byways official web site with detailed info on all national and state byways.