Mountain Gateway Scenic Drive
Visitor Services

The Mountain Gateway Scenic Drive has two information centers in the vicinity; one located near its north terminus on US Highway 59/270 (The Chamber of Commerce building in Heavener, OK), and one...[more]

Service	Description	Service	Description
	Camping Camping opportunities are available at Cedar Lake Recreation Area and Winding Stair Campground. Please contact the Ouachita National Forest for more information.		Food There is a dining establishment located along US Highway 59/270 and other establishments in Heavener.
	Information The Mountain Gateway Scenic Drive has two information centers in the vicinity; one located near its north terminus on US Highway 59/270... [more]

NOTE: The America's Byways® website is federally funded and cannot promote commercial businesses. This data may not be complete or up to date. The National Scenic Byways Program is not responsible for the quality of your travel experience. See the right column on the Byway Overview page for local contact information.

Special Considerations

There are no road services available on the Mountain Gateway Scenic Drive. Traveler services, including food, fuel, lodging, and vehicle service are available at distances of 10 miles or more in Talihina, OK; Heavener, OK; Poteau, OK; and Mena, AR.

Some steep grades on the route will slow down commercial traffic, but passing lanes are available. The route has only four miles of paved shoulders for emergency stopping and few areas for passing.

The route receives minimal plowing or sanding in the winter months. Year-round, valley fog, low-hanging rain clouds, or smoke from springtime prescribed fire, will cause fog-like conditions on the route and increase driving time.

Due to the winter cold and the lack of electricity along many segments of the route, many facilities close for the season. Travelers are encouraged to call the US Forest Service in advance for days of operation and up-to-date recreation and facility information.

Seasons

Best Time to Drive

The splendors of the new spring greens and the fall color season enhance the vividness of the views and will maximize your experience.

High Season

The fall color season also attracts the highest number of vehicles and tour buses at any one time, particularly on the weekends and at the facilities.

Road Conditions

To find up to date information about the road conditions along Mountain Gateway Scenic Drive, please visit the FHWA listing of web sites for more information.

Oklahoma