Talihina Travel Guide

Discover the culturally and naturally rich town of Talihina, Oklahoma with this comprehensive travel guide. From outdoor adventures to cultural museums, this guide covers it all.


Introduction to Talihina

Talihina, located in Choctaw Country in Oklahoma, is a town rich in culture and natural beauty. The town is situated on the edge of the Ouachita Mountains, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Talihina is also home to museums preserving Choctaw culture and history, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in Native American heritage.

List of Places to Visit in Talihina

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Choctaw Nation Capitol Museum: This museum showcases the history and culture of the Choctaw Nation, which has a significant presence in the Talihina area.
  • Talihina Veterans Center: This center is home to a museum honoring veterans and their service to the country.
  • Ouachita Expressions: This art gallery displays the work of local artists and is a great place to view and purchase unique pieces of art.

Natural Attractions of Talihina: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Talimena Scenic Drive: This 54-mile scenic route provides breathtaking views of Talihina and the surrounding Ouachita Mountains.
  • Talihina State Park: This park offers hiking trails, fishing, and a picnic area, making it a great place to spend a day outdoors.
  • Sardis Lake: This lake is a beautiful spot for fishing, boating, and swimming on a hot day.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Talihina

  • Choctaw Nation Trail: This trail covers 52 miles and is excellent for hiking or mountain biking. It passes through beautiful landscapes and provides breathtaking views of the Ouachita Mountains.
  • Talimena National Scenic Trail: This trail is an 8.5-mile section of the 222-mile Ouachita National Recreation Trail that starts in Talihina and continues through Arkansas. This section is great for a day hike.

Best Things to Do in Talihina: Activities and Tours

  • Choctaw Annual Labor Day Festival and Powwow: This festival is held every year over Labor Day weekend and celebrates the Choctaw Nation’s culture and heritage with dancing, music, and food.
  • Talihina Fall Foliage Festival: Held in October, this festival celebrates the beautiful fall colors of the Ouachita Mountains. The annual parade and live performances are not to be missed.
  • Talihina Sky-Island Tour: This guided tour takes visitors up the Talimena Scenic Drive and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Week-Long Itinerary for Talihina

Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5 Day 6 Day 7
Choctaw Nation Capitol Museum Talihina State Park Ouachita Expressions Choctaw Nation Trail Sardis Lake Talimena Scenic Drive Talihina Veterans Center

Food and Drink Scene of Talihina

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chicken fried steak: You can’t go wrong with a classic Southern dish of chicken fried steak, mashed potatoes, and gravy.
  • Pecan pie: Oklahoma is known for its pecans, and you won’t want to miss this sweet treat.
  • BBQ: Talihina has several BBQ joints to choose from and will satisfy all BBQ lovers.

Local Beverages

  • Native American Herbal Tea: This tea is made from a variety of herbs and is usually served hot.
  • Oklahoma craft beer: There are several craft breweries in Oklahoma, and many bars and restaurants in Talihina offer local beer options.

Where to Stay in Talihina: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Choctaw Casino & Resort: This hotel and casino is a great option for those looking for a luxurious stay. It also offers dining options, a spa, and a pool.
  • Talimena State Park: The park has several cabins available for rent, providing a unique and peaceful stay experience.

What to Buy in Talihina: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Choctaw Nation souvenirs: From t-shirts to jewelry, there are plenty of souvenirs available that celebrate the Choctaw Nation’s culture and heritage.
  • Native American-made art: Visitors can purchase unique pieces of art from local galleries or directly from artists.

Local Culture and Customs of Talihina

Talihina and the surrounding areas have a strong presence of the Choctaw Nation, so it is important to be respectful of their culture and customs. Visitors should also be mindful of the town’s natural surroundings and leave no trace when enjoying outdoor activities.

Best Time to Visit Talihina

The best time to visit Talihina is in the spring or fall when temperatures are mild and the foliage is at its peak. The summer can be very hot, and winter can see snow and ice on the roads and hiking trails.

Do’s and Don’ts of Talihina

Do:

  • Respect the culture and customs of the Choctaw Nation.
  • Bring comfortable shoes for hiking or walking on uneven terrain.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural surroundings.
  • Take photos of sacred sites or indigenous people without permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Talihina

Talihina is a safe town, but visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions against theft or break-ins. Hiking and other outdoor activities can carry some risks, so visitors should be prepared and take any necessary safety measures.

Health in Talihina

Talihina has a hospital and other medical services available. Visitors should also make sure to bring any necessary prescription medications and be prepared for any potential allergies to plants or animals in the area.

Getting to Talihina: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Talihina

  • Fort Smith Regional Airport (FSM): 75 miles away.
  • Tulsa International Airport (TUL): 135 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Talihina

  • Greyhound Bus Station in Poteau, OK: 35 miles away.
  • Jefferson Lines in Fort Smith, AR: 80 miles away.

Other Options

  • Driving: Visitors can travel to Talihina by car and explore the surrounding areas at their own pace.
  • Rental car: Rental cars are available at both the Fort Smith and Tulsa airports.

How to Get Around in Talihina

Visitors can get around Talihina by car or by foot. Biking is also a great option for getting around and exploring the town’s natural surroundings.

Where to Go Next from Talihina: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Beavers Bend State Park: This state park in southeastern Oklahoma is known for its hiking trails and fishing spots.
  • Hot Springs, Arkansas: This historic spa town is located just across the border from Oklahoma and is home to natural hot springs, art galleries, and museums.

Conclusion

Talihina, Oklahoma, is a destination rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and scenic drives, as well as explore the town’s museums and cultural attractions. With a variety of dining and lodging options, Talihina is a great vacation spot for all types of travelers.

Talimena Drive in the fall Talimena Drive in the fall