The Ultimate Fall Getaway
Visit Historic Talihina
Tucked between the Kiamichi and Winding Stair Mountains, Talihina, OK has something for everyone. Whether you’re an outdoor adventurer, enjoy boutique shopping, love great food, appreciate historical sites or all of the above, this delightful Kiamichi Valley village awaits.
There is no better time to visit than the fall, since it is also home to the crown jewel of the region, the Talimena National Scenic Byway that boasts breathtaking fall foliage to thousands of visitors each year.
Choctaw Culture and History
Talihina, which is the Choctaw Nation word for railroad, was founded in 1887 as a station stop on the St. Louis and San Francisco Railroad. History abounds as Talihina is home to Native American burial grounds, historical trails, a WWII crash site and more.
Take a deeper dive into the area’s history and the Choctaw nation at the Choctaw Capitol Building in nearby Tuskahoma.
The back porch at My Crystal Chandelier is one of our favorite spots!
Small Town Vibes
Historical downtown Talihina offers fun and unique local shops and restaurants. For special finds and the chance to energize, stop at My Crystal Chandelier Coffee House and Gift Shop to delight in both shopping and delicious coffee and pastries.
When you’re really ready to fuel up, head for the friendly atmosphere and homestyle southern food at iconic Pam’s Hateful Hussy Diner. We especially love the fried chicken, Indian bread and coconut cream pie.
Outdoor Paradise
Notably, Talihina is the gateway to Talimena State Park situated in the Ouachita National Forest and host to beautiful hiking and biking trails, amazing wildlife viewing and ATV opportunities. You’ll need more than one day to take it all in, so thankfully the park offers tent and RV camping.
For equestrians, nearby Horse Heaven Ranch Resort provides cabins, RV hookups, barns for your four-legged best friend and access to hundreds of miles of trails.
Majestic Fall Foliage
Fall foliage on the Talimena Byway
Let’s not forget that crown jewel, Talimena State Park is also the entry point to one of the most beautiful roads imaginable, the Talimena National Scenic Byway.
When you’re ready to totally immerse yourself in stunning fall foliage, hit the road for this 54-mile winding drive through the Ouachita Mountains from Talihina to Mena, Arkansas.
You will be gifted amazing panoramic views and stunning landscapes while the area is ablaze with golds and reds. The beauty of the drive is unmatched, and this is never more true than at the end of October and beginning of November.
There’s even a yearly Fall Foliage Festival to celebrate this magical time of year.
If the magnificence of the area stirs your soul, schedule a tour at Timber Ridge Estates on close by Sardis Lake. While the fall holds a special place in our hearts, all seasons are truly better out here. Just wait until you experience the lushness of spring!
Read about our favorite nearby lake, Sardis Lake and why it’s everything you’re looking for and more!