How does a place become the place? One surefire way is by appealing to locals and visitors alike, which is how Arkansas became a world-class mountain-biking destination. But it didn’t happen overnight. First, Arkansas locals pioneered mountain biking in the state decades ago, establishing a deep appreciation for the diverse terrain. Then, in recent years—after a massive statewide investment in biking infrastructure—the rest of the mountain-biking community took notice and discovered what the locals already loved: incredible year-round riding. From rugged forested terrain with a mix of downhill and cross-country trails to skills parks and shuttled routes, the state has an amazing variety of two-wheeled adventure options.
Discover America’s New Adventure Hub
“The mountain biking scene has grown by leaps and bounds,” says Arkansas local and longtime mountain biker Joe Jacobs, who runs a website dedicated to outdoor adventures in Arkansas. “Over the past several years, new trails are popping up in smaller communities throughout the state. All of these trails are professionally built using a variety of creative funding sources and continue to grow Arkansas’ reputation as a premier biking destination.” Ready to get in on the action? Here’s a look at some of the best rides in Arkansas.
Coler Mountain Bike Preserve: Rocks, Jumps, and Technical Fun
The Bentonville area in northwest Arkansas is credited with starting the state’s mountain-biking boom, thanks to land grants and monetary donations from the Walton Family Foundation (the philanthropic arm of the Walmart Corporation, which was founded in Bentonville). One of the most beloved parks to come out of those grants: Coler Mountain Bike Preserve. The 300-acre parcel houses 20 miles of biking trails, touted as some of the most challenging enduro-style terrain in the state.
Take a shakeout lap or two on the park’s west side, where you’ll find plenty of beginner- and intermediate-friendly trails. With playful turns and berms, the gentle 1.4-mile Good Vibrations singletrack is perfect for a mellow warmup. Or pedal Esther’s Loop, a flowy 4.5-mile cross-country route that cruises around the perimeter of the park’s west side. Ready for a thrill? Post up at the Hub. This 20-foot-tall structure is a gateway to adrenaline-pumping downhill runs filled with ramps and a variety of jumps for advanced riders.
Little Sugar: Pedaling Paradise
If you prefer to earn your turns, the Little Sugar trail system is for you. The park’s 50 miles of trails feature more vert per mile than anywhere else in the Bentonville region. These relatively new trails were constructed in 2020, so riders can expect a more modern feel, with slightly wider singletrack that’s approachable for beginners. Take the scenic route on the 28.8-mile cross-country Tunnel Vision. This intermediate trail runs around the perimeter of the park, with connecting trails that cut through ravines and under rocky bluffs and, of course, through tunnels made of ten-foot-diameter pipes. Don’t miss the waterfall on Tanyard Creek on the loop’s east side.
Want to test yourself with a competition? Jacobs recommends signing up for the Little Sugar MTB. “The Leadville series race is held in mid-October and features 20K, 50K, and 100K course options, each with progressively more challenging terrain to keep you on your toes,” he says.
And if you have time to keep exploring the Bentonville-area trails, check out Slaughter Pen and the Back 40, both of which offer more premier riding close to town.
Northwoods Trail System: Wilderness Fix with a Hot Springs Bonus
It doesn’t get any better than a singletrack ride followed by a relaxing soak. Just outside the town of Hot Springs, the Northwoods Trail System features 30 miles of trails that skirt around the city and cross through Hot Springs National Park. Explore the area’s dense forests on a mix of singletrack and multi-track trails for all levels. The Cedar Glades Park trailhead offers access to family-friendly trails and a skills course with a pump track to warm up on. If you’re feeling ready to take it up a notch, head to the centrally located Waterworks Trailhead for easy access to the meat of the trail system. Take the Waterworks Trail to the Ragnarok Trail, where you can cruise down singletrack filled with switchbacks to your heart’s (and legs’) content.
For a big gravity experience, head to Lucky 13. This expert-level downhill trail is just over half a mile, but it packs a big punch when it comes to features. Expect big berms, step-ups and step-downs, and the biggest jumps in the trail system. After you’ve had your fill of trail time, stick around for post-ride drinks. “Hot Springs has a vibrant nightlife and is home to the only brewery inside a national park,” says Jacobs.
Mount Nebo State Park: Big Views, Big Downhills, and More
Head to the heart of the Arkansas River Valley for a 25-mile trail network located in Mount Nebo State Park. Part of a collection of Monument Trails in four state parks across Arkansas, the Monument Trails at Mount Nebo have something for everyone, with a great selection of beginner, intermediate, and advanced routes. You can create loops with plenty of uphill, but if you want to go down, down, down, get dropped off at Sunrise and descend Sunrise Loop across Miller’s Goat to the bike-only Hayes Creek Run. All together, it’s a 3.5-mile, 1,100-foot descent that will have you grinning the entire way. Bonus: the park has cabins and camping, a pool for a post-ride swim, and even a wash station for bikes.
Need an excuse to explore more of the Monument Trails at other parks? Jacobs recommends signing up for one of the Arkansas Mountain Bike Championship Series (AMBCS) events. “The organization hosts cross country MTB races at Hobbs and Devil’s Den state parks, which are home to sister trail systems to the Mount Nebo Monument Trails.”
Lakewoods Trail System: Sample Arkansas’s Newest Riding
After the flurry of trail building in the past few years, the state could be forgiven for taking a break. Not so. South of Little Rock, at Monticello, a brand-new trail network opened last May. The Lakewoods Trail System will eventually reach 25 miles and circle Lake Monticello, but six miles of it are open for business and well worth a visit. Near the trailhead, you’ll find a skills area with wooden features, including skinnies, wave bridges, and off-camber turns (you can bypass them). The rest of the trail is smooth and flowy, and you’ll add a few out-and-back miles to do the whole thing.
The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism protects and promotes the state’s natural, cultural, and historic assets, contributing to a thriving economy and high quality of life. The Division of Arkansas Tourism strives to expand the economic impact of travel and tourism in the state and enhance the quality of life for all Arkansans. The division manages 14 Arkansas Welcome Centers and employs more than 60 staff members across the Natural State. Learn more at arkansas.com.