Fall Road Trip: Talimena National Scenic Byway [VIDEO]

I love the fall season, cooler days, football, and leaves changing color. One of the best road trips you can make in the state of Arkansas is the Talimena National Scenic Byway in Mena.

Bikers and motorists alike love this panoramic scenic view, a 54-mile route with 18-miles of that route in Arkansas. The trek begins right off Hwy 71 and takes you up highway Ark. 88 into Oklahoma. This scenic drive takes you through plenty of winding roads that twist and turn through some of the most beautiful countryside surrounded by the enchanting Ouachita Mountains and National Forest. There are plenty of overlooks along the way for that perfect photo op that will capture the wooded pine and hardwood trees as your backdrop. This drive will take you on a journey up to Arkansas' second-highest peak Rich Mountain that stands at 2,681ft., where one of Arkansas' State Parks resides Queen Wilhelmina State Park. You can stay overnight in this beautiful lodge with walking trails nearby, a mini-train, and take a picture inside a real steam engine train. Oh, if you are a mountain biker, you can ride The Earthquake Ridge Trail 6.8 miles.

It doesn't really matter what time of year you decide to drive or ride the Talimena National Scenic Byway but the fall and spring are probably the most beautiful. The array of fall colors are mesmerizing to the senses especially mid-October - through mid-November. I highly encourage you to open up your windows and let the autumn breeze blow through your hair. It's a road trip that is well worth the drive and for me a great escape from the hectic life we all live in. Talk about social distancing!

For other scenic drives in Arkansas go to Arkansas.com