The best cycling routes in Arkansas

Arkansas offers a wide array of touring cycling routes, with over 230 options available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy river trails to challenging mountain ascents through the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains.

Yes, Arkansas has many easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners. Over 120 routes are classified as easy. A great option is the Mississippi River Trail loop, which is 10.5 miles (16.9 km) long and offers generally flat terrain with scenic views of the Mississippi River.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Arkansas's mountainous regions provide excellent options. The Mount Magazine Scenic Byway is a difficult 20.4-mile (32.9 km) route with significant elevation gain. Other challenging routes include the Lake Bella Vista Trail – Bentonville City Square loop from Bentonville and the Lake Bella Vista Trail – Crystal Bridges Trail loop from Blowing Springs Park, both offering substantial climbs.

Many routes in Arkansas are suitable for families, especially those that are mostly flat and off-road. The Slaughter Pen Trails – Crystal Bridges Trail loop from Bentonville Bike Playground is an easy 7.6-mile (12.3 km) route that connects to the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, offering a mix of cycling and cultural exploration. The Razorback Regional Greenway in Northwest Arkansas also provides mostly off-road, family-friendly sections.

Arkansas, known as 'The Natural State,' offers diverse scenic viewpoints. Routes through the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains provide breathtaking vistas of forested hills and valleys. Along the Arkansas River Valley, you'll find expansive river views. Many trails also feature picturesque lakes, such as the Lake Fayetteville Trail – Boardwalk along Spring Creek loop from Johnson, which offers lakefront scenery and a boardwalk experience.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Arkansas are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Mississippi River Trail loop, the Lake Fayetteville Trail – Boardwalk along Spring Creek loop from Johnson, and the Two Rivers Park Bridge – Big Dam Bridge loop from Canoe and Bike Rental, which crosses the iconic Big Dam Bridge.

Arkansas's routes often pass by or provide access to stunning natural and historical sites. You can find beautiful waterfalls like Tanyard Creek Falls and Hot Spring Cascade. Historical sites such as the Hot Springs National Park Historic Baths and Cannons at Pea Ridge National Military Park are also accessible. Many routes also feature scenic lakes like Bella Vista Lake.

The touring cycling experience in Arkansas is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 130 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the diverse landscapes, from challenging mountain climbs to serene river valley rides, and the extensive network of trails through dense woodlands. The well-maintained paths and access to natural beauty are often highlighted.

Northern Arkansas, particularly the Ozark Mountains and the Bentonville area, is a hub for cycling. Routes like the Bentonville City Square – Crystal Bridges Trail loop from Glam'd Nail Spa offer a mix of urban and natural scenery. The region is known for its extensive trail systems, including sections of the Razorback Regional Greenway, connecting cities and providing access to amenities.

Arkansas offers pleasant cycling conditions for much of the year. Spring and autumn are particularly popular due to milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Autumn brings vibrant fall foliage, especially in the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains, making it an ideal time for scenic rides. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are generally mild but can have occasional cold snaps.

Yes, especially in urban and semi-urban areas like Bentonville and Fayetteville. Routes such as the Beer Garden – Railyard Bike Park loop from SE J St at Haas Hall (Northbound) and the Downtown Rogers – Railyard Bike Park loop from Community Food Pantry are designed to connect cyclists with local attractions, including coffee shops, restaurants, and breweries, allowing for convenient stops and refreshments.

While specific public transport connections vary, many urban and regional trail networks in Arkansas are designed with accessibility in mind. The Arkansas River Trail (ART) in Central Arkansas, for instance, offers urban connections and access to downtown areas, making it easier to combine cycling with other modes of transport or to reach trailheads. The Razorback Regional Greenway also connects various cities, potentially offering links to local transit options.