Mountain Pass Scenic Byway
Places to Visit

  • 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.

    Location:

    Ouachita National Forest, Oklahoma and Arkansas
  • 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.

    Distance from byway: 4 mi / 6.4 km
    Travel time: 8 minutes
    Directions:

    From the US Highway 259 and US Highway 59/270 junction, proceed north on the byway for about 4 miles to the visitor center. Signs are located on the highway.
  • 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: 4.5 mi / 7.2 km
    Travel time: 10 minutes
    Directions:

    From the US Highway 259 and Oklahoma State Highway 1 junction, go east 1.5 miles to the Nature Center. An entrance sign is on the highway.
  • Pipe Spring Historic Site and Picnicground

    Pipe Spring Historic Site and Picnicground (OK)

    This historical site is part of the railroad construction that took place during the logging days of the 1920s. The spring, a pipe in the ground, was developed by railroad workers for a daily drink of water and is still used that way today.

    Location:

    Located on Mountain Pass Scenic Byway about 1.5 miles south of the US 259 and Oklahoma Highway 1 junction.
  • Three Sticks National Forest Monument

    Three Sticks National Forest Monument (OK)

    The monument's three "sticks" represent land, wood, and water.

    Location:

    Located at the "mountain pass" of Kiamichi Mountain on a byway vista point about eight (8) miles north of the south terminous of the Mountain Pass Scenic Drive.
  • 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: 1.5 mi / 2.4 km
    Travel time: 3 minutes
    Directions:

    From the US Highway 259 and Oklahoma State Highway 1 junction, proceed west on Highway 1 (Talimena Scenic Drive) to Winding Stair Campground. Signs are posted on the highway