Rain was predicted, but it didn’t look like driving, thunder and lightning rain, so it was time for an adventure. Heading south, past the interstates, into the Kiamichi Mountains in southeast Oklahoma sounded like the best way to start a day. Through rural areas onto beautiful roads through the mountains, Oklahoma size mountains. After lunch in Talihina at a cafe filled with locals where the $5.50 lunch special could fill the hungriest cowboy, Choctow, tourist or other locals in the area, the destination is off to the most beautiful fall foliage in the state…Winding Stair National Recreation Area and the Talimena National Scenic Byway.
The color of the foliage got brighter and brighter as we drove, even on a cloudy, misting day.
The winding drive along the ridge is stunning on either side, looking out over lush valleys. On a day like today, you get Oklahoma’s version of the smokey mountains with blue layers of mountains in the distance.
Around every corner, there is more color rising above you, glowing through the light rain and fog.
The forests are filled with more color and texture as you take the side roads into new viewing areas.
Bursts of vivid colors make this area and its vegetation different from other parts of the state.
Today, the fog stopped us from going further and on into Arkansas.
But, it cleared as we headed down for a final view of the blue mountains ahead.
The famous Talimena Drive never disappoints, no matter what the season or the weather. Today’s fog and rain made it a magic day to remember!
Confetti Thoughts 