Cycling in Arkansas: Where to Ride, What to Expect, and Why You'll Want to Come Back
Bentonville sits at the top of the list for good reason. It's a world-class mountain biking destination with mountain, gravel, and greenway options all in the same area. That means you can ride a smooth, low-stress greenway on day one and, if you're feeling braver, try a beginner-friendly mountain trail on day two. The variety makes it a smart choice for a first Arkansas cycling trip.
If you're looking for something a little more removed from the crowd, Lake Greeson in southern Arkansas offers 30 miles of walking, nature, and cycling trails accessible from two entry points: Kirby Landing and Parker Creek. The trails wind through the kind of landscape that makes you forget you had a to-do list. It's quieter country, and that's the appeal.
Arkansas also has over 200 miles of singletrack statewide, plus an abundance of paved and scenic trail options. AllTrails documents the 10 best road biking trails and 10 best paved trails in the state, each with maps, driving directions, and real user reviews. Hot Springs in particular has multiple popular road biking routes worth exploring. Spend an afternoon there and you'll understand why people keep coming back to Arkansas with their bikes loaded in the car.
Rides Worth Knowing: From Bentonville to Lake Greeson
Bentonville isn't just a cycling destination. It's a cycling community. The riding here spans mountain trails, gravel roads, and connected greenways, so you can build a multi-day trip around the trails and still have energy left to explore the town itself. It's the kind of place where cycling feels woven into daily life, not just a weekend novelty.
Ozark Bike Guides, based right in Bentonville, offers guided mountain, gravel, and greenway tours for riders of all experience levels. They also offer private lessons, which is genuinely useful if you're newer to mountain biking or want to build confidence before hitting the trails on your own. Booking a guided ride takes the pressure off navigating unfamiliar terrain and lets you actually enjoy where you are.
For a mom riding with a daughter who's never been on singletrack, or a group of friends who want to explore without getting lost, a guided tour is one of the smartest ways to start. The guides know which routes match your pace. They know where the good views are. That local knowledge is worth more than any trail map.
What the Terrain Actually Feels Like
Arkansas terrain covers a wide range, and knowing what you're getting into makes the planning easier. The Ozarks in the north bring elevation, rocky singletrack, and shaded forest riding. It's physically engaging, and beginner trails do exist, but you'll want to be honest with yourself about fitness level before booking a trip to Bentonville's more technical routes.
In contrast, paved greenways and flatter trail systems give newer riders a genuine on-ramp to the sport. Hot Springs road biking routes and Lake Greeson's mixed-use trails offer terrain that doesn't demand technical skill, just a comfortable bike and a willingness to show up. That matters when you're introducing a younger rider, or when you're the one who hasn't been on a bike in a few years.
Arkansas is also promoted for its varied climate and scenic riding conditions. Spring and fall typically bring the most comfortable temperatures for longer rides. The state's natural landscape means you're often riding through forest cover, past water, or along ridgelines that make the miles feel shorter than they are.
Cultural and Historic Connections on Two Wheels
Bentonville is home to the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, which sits within walking and biking distance of several trail systems. The museum was founded by Alice Walton and opened in 2011, transforming Bentonville from a regional retail hub into a destination with genuine cultural weight. Cyclists often combine a trail ride with a stop at Crystal Bridges, making for a day that's both physical and meaningful.
Arkansas's cycling identity is tied directly to The Natural State designation, a nickname that reflects the state's long-standing commitment to its outdoor landscapes. Cycling tourism has grown alongside that identity, with the state actively developing trail infrastructure and publishing resources like the Arkansas Cycling Guide to support visitors. That investment in access is part of the culture here.
Riding through the Ozarks also connects you to a landscape that shaped generations of Arkansas history. These are old hills, with small towns, independent farms, and a pace of life that's been largely unchanged. Passing through on a bike, you notice things a car window never lets you see.
Gear Tips for Cycling in Arkansas
Arkansas's terrain and climate should drive your gear choices. If you're riding greenways or paved trails around Hot Springs or Lake Greeson, a comfortable hybrid or road bike works well. For Bentonville's mountain and gravel routes, a hardtail mountain bike or gravel bike gives you more control and confidence on uneven surfaces. Bring the right bike for the right trail and the whole day goes better.
A helmet is non-negotiable, and a properly fitted one makes a real difference. Padded cycling shorts are worth every penny if you're planning rides longer than an hour. Pack a small frame bag or seat bag with a tube, a mini pump, and a multi-tool. Flat tires happen, and being able to handle one yourself is genuinely empowering, especially if you're out on the trail with your daughter.
For clothing, layers are smart in spring and fall when Arkansas mornings can be cool and afternoons warm up quickly. A lightweight, packable windbreaker earns its spot in your pack. Arkansas State Parks visitor centers carry branded cycling jerseys if you want a piece of the state to take home. Hydration matters more than most new riders expect, so carry more water than you think you'll need and plan your route around refill points.