My 11 Favorite Places to Mountain Bike in Arkansas

Bentonville, of course

Bentonville, of course, tops the list. This is where it all began—thanks to major investment from the Walton Foundation, which has poured millions into trail building and turned this once-sleepy town into a full-blown mountain biking mecca.

As someone who’s ridden all over the U.S. (and around the world), I can honestly say there’s nothing quite like Bentonville. It’s like the Disney World of mountain biking, only better, because you don’t have to stand in line.

There are hundreds of miles of trail here, covering the full spectrum of mountain biking. You’ve got long, cross-country loops up in Bella Vista, pro-level drops at Coler Preserve, and just about everything in between. And then there’s the art: sculptures, installations, and quirky features are scattered throughout the network, adding a creative twist to every ride.

I’ve been coming back to Bentonville every year since 2020, and it’s hands-down one of my favorite places to ride. What’s even more exciting? The trail builders aren’t slowing down. Each year brings new trails to explore, and sometimes entirely new trail networks.

If you haven’t made the trip yet, put Bentonville at the top of your bike-it list. Trust me, you won’t regret it. Below are two of my go-to spots to ride in Bentonville and if you’re ready to go all-in, check out my full Bentonville mountain biking guide for even more tips and trail beta.

1. Coler Preserve

Coler Preserve is Bentonville’s unofficial bike park. There’s no shuttle or lift, but the climbs are so well-built—some even paved—that pedaling to the top is surprisingly enjoyable. And the descents? Pure fun.

Fire Line is the must-ride trail here: a fast, flowy intermediate jump line that’s perfect for dialing in your airtime. For more advanced riders, Cease and Desist kicks off from Coler’s iconic hub and features the legendary Drop the Hammer (which I have yet to hit…)

Not into jumps? No problem. Coler also has old-school tech, mellow cross-country loops, and creative trail design that makes every ride interesting. Be sure to get a few laps in on Thunder Dome, and if you’re up for a spicy challenge, test yourself on Here’s Johnny (ride it north to south and try not to dab!).

2. The Back 40

The Back 40 is another favorite of mine and one of the top mountain biking destinations in Arkansas. Tucked just north of Bentonville in Bella Vista, this network leans more cross-country, but don’t let that fool you, there are some real gems hidden in the woods. If you’re into jumps, check out Taylor’s Homestead or Go Flo. Prefer rocky tech? The Ledges delivers.

While the main Back 40 loop clocks in at over 20 miles, I think there are more creative, and more fun, ways to explore the area. Head over to my Back 40 guide for route ideas and must-ride highlights.

3. Slaughter Pen

Of course I have to include the Slaughter Pen trails. This is where the Bentonville mountain bike scene really began. Located just off downtown, Slaughter Pen is home to mix of everything: flow, tech, jumps, and quirky features that make it feel uniquely Bentonville. 

The Castle Hub is literally designed after a castle and can be easily lapped for pure downhill fun. There’s also the iconic All-American that starts in downtown Bentonville and runs the length of Slaughter Pen. My favorite trail, though is Choo Choo— a super fast and flowy paved berm trail that leaves me grinning every time I ride it.

There’s no shortage of good riding at Slaughter Pen and the best part is that you’re almost guaranteed to discover something new every time you hit the trails.

Fayetteville, so underrated!

About 30 miles south of Bentonville, the city of Fayetteville has its own mountain bike scene that’s 100% worth exploring. Honestly, I like the trails here almost as much as Bentonville’s. They’re a little more low-key and not quite as polished, but that’s part of the appeal, especially if you’re looking to escape the crowds at Coler or try something a bit different.

My top picks in Fayetteville are Mt. Kessler for its old-school tech and forested singletrack, Centennial Park, which features a legit UCI World Cup XC course, and Mount Fitzgerald (technically in nearby Springdale). If you have the time, Fayetteville is a great side mission.

4. Mt. Kessler

The first time I rode Mt. Kessler I did not enjoy it. The second time it grew on me and now it’s one of my favorite places to mountain bike in Arkansas. It’s definitely on the rougher/old-school side of things, so take that into consideration before opting to add it to your itinerary. You gotta like rocks!

5. Centennial Park

Centennial Park is a blast! Located just north of Mt. Kessler, it’s home to a legit UCI World Cup cross-country course, which means the trail design is thoughtful, challenging, and purpose-built. But don’t worry, you don’t need to be a pro to enjoy it.

I love it for its solid mix of new-school flow and old-school tech, with fast descents, punchy climbs, and cool features, natural and manmade. I usually do a loop on Learner’s Permit and then head to the southwest side of the park, to lap the downhill-focused trails like Captain Fantastic.

6. Mount Fitzgerald

With a trail named “Best Trail Ever” Mount Fitzgerald is worth a day of riding. It’s located just north of Fayetteville and has some unique singletrack. The Best Trail Ever isn’t exactly the ‘best trail ever’ but it’s a good challenge and has some interesting features. Coyote Cave is also super cool (stop and check out the cave!) and there are some flow tracks and jump lines on the southside of the park.

Eureka Springs, quirky & fun

Eureka Springs is a funky, charming little town that feels like stepping back in time. Originally an old Victorian spa town, it’s retained that historic vibe while developing into a vibrant— and yes, touristy—destination. But it’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down and explore. I highly recommend spending an afternoon wandering the steep, winding lanes and hidden paths that weave through downtown. Forget the map, just follow your curiosity! I guarantee you’ll stumble upon some truly interesting corners, quirky shops, and unexpected views.

But Eureka Springs isn’t just a unique town, it’s also home to two of my absolute favorite mountain bike trail networks: Lake Leatherwood and Passion Play. Both offer unique and sometimes quirky trails that perfectly complement the town’s eclectic spirit.

7. Lake Leatherwood

The Lake Leatherwood trails can be divided up into two parts: half the trail network is a shuttle-accessed downhill bike park with 7 DH trails and the other half is a cross-country network. The Lake Leatherwood Gravity Project is super fun, a little rowdy, and definitely worth a day or two. The shuttle runs on weekends, or you can also pedal your way to the top.

The 15 or so miles of cross-country trails are pretty fun as well. I recommend booking a campsite at Lake Leatherwood City Park and spending a few days exploring!

8. Passion Play

Passion Play is a very strange, but very fun place… The trails are built on the mountain where the Great Passion Play is located. I’m still not quite sure what this place really is, but it’s some sort of religious destination. Apparently people come from all over the world to see the huge statue of Christ and watch the Passion Play show in the summer. The grounds also have re-creations of Biblical sites that the trails pass through. It’s strange…

Anyway, the trails are super fun! They’re definitely more on the enduro side with steeper terrain, bigger features, and stouter climbs. Definitely have fresh legs when you visit here – you’ll earn your descents!

The Monument Trails, Arkansas best?

The Monument Trails are a series of four state parks in Arkansas that have been developed with mountain bike trails. I love three of them – Pinnacle is meh….

9. Devil’s Den State Park

Devil’s Den is really cool and has one of the most unique trails I’ve ridden in Arkansas – Devil’s Racetrack. Much of the trail is along a tall limestone band with shallow caves and overhanging rock. It’s beautiful! (see photo below)

The rest of the network is cross-country with a few downhill-minded trails that are a blast. There isn’t too much tech here, but Devil’s Den is one of my favorite places to ride in Arkansas and a must-ride in my opinion.

If you want to spend the night, there is a great campground (no cell service) as well as cabins to rent out and there’s a scenic river that runs through the park. It would be a great place to hang out at for a few days!

10. Hobbs State Park

If you’re looking for a 17-mile mellow pedal along the shores of a beautiful lake, head to Hobbs State Park. The lake is beautiful and the trails are mostly easy pedaling through quiet woods. They’re actually some of the best cross-country trails I’ve ever ridden! Think great flow, nice climbs, and fast, flowy descents. Don’t miss Karst Trail – it’s the highlight of Hobbs.

11. Mount Nebo State Park

Mount Nebo is epic. It easily wins a spot for one of the best Arkansas mountain biking trail networks. But be warned – your legs will do some heavy pedaling!

Mount Nebo is located about 1.5 hours northwest of Little Rock. What makes it so unique is that it’s a flat-topped mountain. You drive all the way up on a steep windy road (vehicles over 24 ft are not allowed, but there is trail parking at the bottom). The views from the top are amazing! If you have a few days, I highly recommend booking a campsite for a few days. It’s absolutely worth it for the sunrise and sunset.

The trails are awesome too. There’s a good mix of everything from machine-built flow on Chickalah Valley to really technical rock riding on Lizard Trail. If you’re just looking for mellow with not a lot of climbing, Miller’s Goat circumnavigates the perimeter of the flat-top mountain. Head over to my guide on mountain biking at Mount Nebo for more tips and details.

Where I’ve ridden that I didn’t love…

Alright, so those are the highlights. But what about the Arkansas mountain biking trails that aren’t worth checking out? There are those, too.

• BOC Ponca Downhill trails: I was really looking forward to checking out the Ponca Downhill trails in the Buffalo River area, but they just weren’t that great. The didn’t seem very well maintained and it felt like you were pedaling downhill for a lot of time. Such a shame!
• Pinnacle Mountain State Park: this is the fourth Monument Trails System network and honestly I didn’t love it. Pinnacle Mountain didn’t feel as ‘monumental’ or unique as the other three and I’d skip it if you have limited time.
• Syllamo – I haven’t ridden the Syllamo trails in northeastern Arkansas, but I have been warned against them. A friend said that they’re super overgrown and not very interesting, so…

On my radar

I still have a few trail networks that I want to check off in Arkansas! There are:

• Northwoods Trails in Hot Springs: These trails are supposed to be some of the best in the state. And Hot Springs is supposedly a funky little gateway town to Hot Springs National Park.
• Red Lick: Also located down near Hot Springs, the Red Lick trails also look pretty amazing. I first learned about them after a friend sent me this video.
• Upper Buffalo Headwaters: Funny story… I was on my way to these trails, but the access road in was a suuuper steep dirt road and my van couldn’t make it up. I ended up having to back down a quarter of a mile. So stressful. But they are supposed to be beautiful. I have a feeling they don’t get a lot of maintenance, though.
• Camp Robinson: This trail network is just north of Little Rock. I don’t know too much about it aside that it looks great on TrailForks.
• Rattlesnake Ridge: When I was riding Pinnacle Mountain State Park, I met another mountain biker who recommended Rattlesnake Ridge just west of Pinnacle. Supposedly it’s a bit more interesting and fun.

Tips for Mountain Biking in Arkansas

Before planning your mountain bike trip to Arkansas, here are some things to keep in mind:

Best time of year to mountain bike in Arkansas

Depending on what the weather is doing, much of Arkansas can actually be ridden year-round. That being said, Arkansas does get snow in the winter, but it doesn’t usually last for more than a week or less. However, many trails are closed in wet conditions.

Summers can be very hot and humid, which can make for unpleasant riding. But it’s still doable. I’ve visited at the end of August and I could squeeze sweat out of my gloves after every ride….

Personally, I think the best time for Arkansas mountain biking is during the fall and spring months when temps are cooler.