Spanning the highest mountain range between the Appalachians and the Rockies, the 54-mile Talimena Scenic Byway opens a showcase of natural beauty and extraordinary views. Wide valleys and majestic peaks stretching to the horizon mirror the changing colors and moods of the South's four distinctive seasons. One breathtaking panoramic view follows another as this national forest scenic byway winds along the crests of the Oachita mountains between Mena, AR, and Talihena, OK.Just north of the town of Mena, the scenic byway meanders along the crest of Rich Mountain. Atop Rich Mountain lies the Queen Wilhelmena State Park and the Queen Wilhelmena Lodge which served as our home base for the weekend. Our ride started at the Lodge and went along the byway for 42 miles, making the round trip ride 84 miles. Paul and I both had every intention of cycling the entire 84 miles when we started out. That changed quickly as we started up the first few mountains.
We found ourselves riding over the peaks rather than around them. The hills are
steep and include 2 climbs over 1500 ft. We would grind our way up one side and then find ourselves screaming down the other side. The steeper it got and the more we climbed, the more tired our legs were. There is very little traffic on the byway (mostly motorcycles) and what traffic is there usually is taking it slow so they can enjoy the views. It was best to look around and take in the views while climbing in order to take our minds off the constant grinding. Looking straight ahead only showed us the hill we were climbing and sometimes the next hill coming up.We made it to the lunch stop which was at 40 miles. I stopped at this point and helped with the SAG driving. Paul had lunch and then headed back to see how far he could go. After about 2 miles of climbing the hills, he stopped as well. We headed back to the Lodge, picked up our truck, and went back out to check on the other riders. Some were walking the steep hills while others were still pedaling. The
return trip included what's known as 3-mile hill. Yes, you can just imagine what kind of climb this is. On the way down, I remember pulling on my brakes almost the entire time.Back at the lodge and cleaned up for dinner, the Buffet awaits. Our group met for dinner and reminisced over the days events. We congratulated those who made the entire 84 miles as well as everyone who rode any part of the byway. Let me assure you, this is not a beginner ride. It is one of the most challenging rides we have ever done. And one of the most beautiful.
Even if you don't ride bikes, it's worth the trip just to drive the byway and see the beauty of the mountains.
