The Talimena Scenic Drive lies entirely within
the 1.78 million acre Ouachita National Forest.
Rich in history, the Ouachita Mountains were first explored in 1584
by Desoto's Spaniards. The 1600s brought French explorers trading
pelts with the Indians. Settlers from Tennessee, Mississippi, and
Alabama came in the 1800s looking for farmland. The railroads opened
up the area for the timber industry during the turn of the 20th
century. Numerous mineral springs also brought many visitors during
this time.
The outdoor recreation possibilities are endless: sight-seeing,
camping, swimming, fishing, and hunting name a few. The forest and
wildlife attract naturalists and photographers and the geology is
a rock hound's paradise. The recreation facilities boast untouched
scenic beauty of streams, lakes, springs, pools, and waterfalls.
Many offer nature trails and pathways.
Managed by the USDA Forest Service, careful management practices
and coordination with public users assure the lands are maintained
for this and future generations to enjoy.
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