FEATURES
TALIMENA WITH T
As the Fall temperatures began creeping in , the annual ride with T across the Talimena Scenic Drive began . We gathered at The Talihina Visitors Center which is a new facility directed by a wonderful group of hosts who are always happy to help direct travelers across the Drive and into area sites and businesses . With their assistance , I have found a tremendous amount of information on the mountain , it ’ s vistas and it ’ s origination . Talihina is a small town in Southeast Oklahoma . Nature lovers , cruising motorcyclists and cars enjoy the lush sites of the area .
The Talimena With T ride originated as a ride serving a few purposes . Number one was to bring people to the beautiful area surrounding Talimena Scenic Drive . The Drive is a 54 mile stretch of Highway 1 across the Ouachita Mountain stretching West to East across Oklahoma and Arkansas state lines . Secondly , it was to help people meet other riders who love slowing life down , riding motorcycles and sharing the road among some of the most beautiful scenery nature has to offer . This year , I was able to ride with 5 of my best riding buddies picking them up along the way . Several of them had not ridden on the mountain before and I was thrilled to get to share this favorite destination with them .
As the years have passed , we have created some wonderful bonds between riders , as well as , found some really great hang outs in the area . This
year ’ s stops included the town of Talihina , OK . As those from out of town arrived on Friday , many checked into the comforts of the old style , park at your door , hotel , Rockin ’ H Inn . I rushed our group with the check in process as the day was getting by and the sun was going down . That meant one thing , rush to the Panorama Vista on the West end of Talimena Scenic Drive . One of my favorite stops along the Drive is the Panorama Vista just a short distance from Talihina . From this mountain peak , one can see for miles to the North , West and South . I have fortunately created several lasting memories and gorgeous sunset photos from this viewpoint . I knew we wouldn ’ t be on the mountain on Saturday at sunset , so I took my group of friends there to share its beauty . As expected , they were all amazed at the stunning view and peacefulness that occurs there , watching the sunset as the breeze rustles through the pines . After several photos and some silly talk about sasquatch , we scurried down the mountain before the deer got too thick in the dusk . From there , we parked the bikes and retreated to the local hangout enjoying the cold drinks and fun that Legend ’ s Bar has to offer . We were surprised by a remodel over the past year expanding the bar with pool tables and more space . Before the ride Saturday morning , many riders enjoyed a great breakfast at the local downtown diner , Pam ’ s Hateful Hussy Diner . Even if you ’ re not hungry , reading the numerous wall hangings are worth
20 Thunder Roads Magazine of OK / AR