BY LEANN DILBECK –
Thunder Roads Magazine and the Talimena Scenic Drive Association [TSDA] are hosting the first annual Talimena Rally this weekend and it is being billed as “the ride of the summer!” Thunder Roads Editor In Chief Terri Collier, aka “T”, will be leading the pack straight off the National Scenic Byway through downtown Mena where the Rally will be concluded at Hog Country Cycle on Sherwood Avenue.
“T” told The Pulse that the TSDA first contacted her last Spring about Thunder Roads doing a feature about the Talimena National Scenic Byway. The goal of TSDA was to increase awareness and attract bikers all year long, rather than just during the Fall season.
“T”, herself, herself and took some photos along the breathtaking drive, which she then used in a social media blitz promoting the drive. “I was shocked to discover how many motorcyclists in Arkansas and Oklahoma didn’t know about the drive!”
That discover led “T” partnering with the TSDA to do what they hope will become an annual rally. “This is just a wonderful area… the riding is fantastic… the views are surprising,” said “T”, who also explained that this is not your typical biker rally but more of a “gathering,” with a goal of promoting the Talimena Drive.
The rally will start at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 21, at the Talihina Chamber and proceed in a “casual ride” with 4 or 5 stops, a short lunch break at the End of the Trail Saloon, and then resume into Arkansas to end at Hog Country Cycles across from the Depot on Sherwood Avenue in downtown Mena.
“T” said that they are estimating approximately 300 to participate in this first rally and encourages everyone to register online at http://www.talimenascenicdrive.com/talimena-rally/. The rally is free but if you wish to participate in the optional poker run, there is a small fee.
About Author
Jeri Pearson
Jeri is the News Director for Pulse Multi-Media and Editor of The Polk County Pulse. She has 10 years of experience in community focused journalism and has won multiple press association awards.

More Stories
Texas equine herpes outbreaks puts Arkansas, Texas, Oklahoma horse communities on alert
US Marines of Polk County commemorate 250th anniversary
The Ouachita Trading Post 2025 Halloween Coloring Contest