Rich Mountain (Arkansas–Oklahoma) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Rich Mountain |
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Rich Mountain Lookout Tower as viewed from the parking lot
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 2,681 ft (817 m) |
| Listing | Arkansas County High Points #2 |
| Geography | |
| Location | Queen Wilhelmina State Park, Polk County, Arkansas, United States |
| Parent range | Ouachita Mountains |
Rich Mountain is a very special place in Arkansas. It is the second highest point in the entire state! This mountain is part of the beautiful Ouachita Mountains. It is also home to Queen Wilhelmina State Park, a popular spot for visitors.
Rich Mountain is a long ridge that stretches from east to west. It is made of strong, hard sandstone. You can find it just outside the town of Mena, Arkansas. The mountain even crosses the border into the state of Oklahoma.
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What Makes Rich Mountain Special?
Rich Mountain stands tall at about 2,681 feet (817 meters) high. This makes it one of the highest points in the U.S. Interior Highlands. It is a major landmark in the region.
The Rich Mountain Lookout Tower
At the very top of Rich Mountain, you will find the Rich Mountain Lookout Tower. This tower is used to spot forest fires. It is located about 2.4 miles (3.9 km) east-southeast of the Queen Wilhelmina Lodge. From the tower, you can see amazing views of the surrounding area.
Queen Wilhelmina State Park
Queen Wilhelmina State Park is located right on Rich Mountain. This park offers many fun things to do. You can enjoy hiking trails, picnic areas, and beautiful scenery. The lodge at the park is a great place to stay.
Exploring the Talimena Scenic Drive
One of the best ways to experience Rich Mountain is by driving the Talimena Scenic Drive. This road is made up of Arkansas State Highway 88 and Oklahoma State Highway 1.
Views from the Drive
The Talimena Scenic Drive goes right along the top of Rich Mountain. As you drive, you will see incredible views of the Ouachita Mountains. It is a very popular route for people who love nature and scenic overlooks. The drive offers many spots to pull over and take pictures.
