Mountain Gateway Scenic Byway
Places to Visit

  • Black Fork Mountain Wilderness Trail (AR)

    A day hiker or an overnight backpacker may enjoy stunning views of Queen Wilhelmina State Park, Rich Mountain Fire Tower, and the Ouachita Mountains in Arkansas and Oklahoma.

    Distance from byway: 2 mi / 3.2 km
    Directions:

    From US Hwy 59/270 (Mountain Gateway Scenic Drive) in Page, OK; Turn north on Big Creek road. There is a wilderness sign at this interesction indicating the direction to the Black Fork Mountain Trailhead. Proceed 2 miles to the trailhead entrance.
  • Ouachita National Recreation Trail

    Ouachita National Recreation Trail (AR)

    This trail parallels the entire length of the Talimena National Forest Scenic Byway and dissects Mountain Gateway, providing hiking and backpacking opportunities for the byway traveler at almost any point.

    Distance from byway: On the byway
    Directions:

    From the US Highway 59/270 and US Highway 259 junction, proceed south on US 259 for 7 miles to the trailhead junction. Signs are posted on the highway.
  • Cedar Lake Recreation Center

    Cedar Lake Recreation Center (OK)

    This 86-acre lake, surrounded by oak and pine covered hills, is a perfect place to enjoy the sight and sounds of nature. Campers and day visitors are welcome and can choose from a wide variety of water and trail activities.

    Distance from byway: On the byway
    Directions:

    From the U.S. HIghway 59/270 junction with Holson Valley Road (about 1/4 mile north of the Choctaw Visitor Information Center), proceed west for about 3.5 miles on Holson Valley Road to the entrance road of Cedar Lake. Approach and welcome signs are posted.
  • Choctaw Visitor Information Center

    Choctaw Visitor Information Center (OK)

    This is a full service information and education facility that highlights the message of the Winding Stair Mountain National Recreation Area.

    Location:

    Choctaw Visitor Center is along Hwy. 59/270, 9 miles south of Heavener, OK.
  • Emerald Point Vista

    Emerald Point Vista (OK)

    Appropriately named for the emerald green haze typically found upon this part of the Ouachita Mountains. Emerald Point Vista is also a trailhead for the Ouachita National Recreation Trail.

    Distance from byway: On the byway
    Directions:

    Go south on US Hwy 259 to SR 1 turn west for about 1.5 miles. The vista is just beyond Winding Stair Campground.
  • Kerr Nature Center

    Kerr Nature Center (OK)

    Located at the Kerr Nature Center are three interpretive trails feature a variety of plants which are identified by trail signs.

    Distance from byway: On the byway
    Directions:

    Take US Hwy 259 to SR 1. Turn west for about 1.5 miles
  • Winding Stair Campground

    Winding Stair Campground (OK)

    This mountain-top, solar-powered campground offers an excellent opportunity for getting away from the hustle and bustle of city life. It lies on a scenic ridge along the Talimena Scenic Drive in the heart of the 26,445-acre Winding Stair Mountain National Recreation Area. The campground provides an excellent base from which to enjoy the beauty of the scenic highway, or the natural wonders of the national recreation area. Parking and 21 campsites for hiking and backpacking. Water supplies at this campground have not been reliable so call before you come to camp if you need a source of water.

    Distance from byway: On the byway
    Directions:

    Take US Hwy 259 south to SR 1. Turn west for 1.5 miles.