I've ridden it in June. One thing that is nice that time of year is the lack of fog.
Talimena Drive during spring and fall has some of the densest fog I've ever seen!
During June, though, usually by 8 am it's all clear.
It's right at 80 miles from Talihina, Ok to Mena, Arkansas.
There's a motel in Talihina, and a restaurant...both are decent. One gas station, so be sure to either fill up there if you're headed to Mena, or in Mena if you're headed to Talihina.
I have family that live in Mena, and it's like my second home town.
The top of the drive is right about the middle, at around 40 miles.
At that point, on a clear day, from any of the several places you can pull over, you can literally see for miles.
Sidenote: always be on the lookout for deer while on the drive! Had one bigger than my bike jump out in front of me once at the 40 mile mark! Very close call, and took every ounce of brakes I had to avoid hitting it!
The fall, right after the first frosts, when the leaves begin to change colors, is the most stunning time.
But you have to really watch the weather forecasts, and deal with waiting out the fog.
Believe me, when it's raining, foggy, or snowing...you don't wanna be there!
Also, watch out for the LEOS. They radar all along the way, so obey the posted speed.
Queen Wilhemena State Park is about 12-15 miles from Mena on the Drive, and a nice place to stop.
There's also a 4star hotel there, with a great restaurant. They had it closed for remodel last fall, but it should be back open by now.
The ride from Mena to Hot Springs has a lot of good twisties. From Hot Springs, I've been north on several different routes...ranging from a majority of divided 2 lane to SERIOUS twisties as you head to Eureka Springs. If you are into curvy roads, then anywhere around Eureka Springs is a twisty-lover's paradise!
It's just hard to find bad places to ride in that area.
Bob