Arkansas Mountain Biking: Finding a Trail for You

Mountain biking can be either a leisurely ride through beautiful scenery or an adrenaline-pumping race down hills followed by muscle thrashing climbs up slopes and steep terrain. It can take a few days or a whole day. The choice is yours and depends on your preference and skill.

The trail you choose will reflect your preference and it is important you choose the right trail. Consider things like whether you want somewhere that is relatively quiet where you won’t be bothered by other riders or users or if you like the company of other cyclists. Terrain is another thing to consider and this is what you should look at when mountain biking in Arkansas.

Ouachita Mountains

The Ouachita Mountains offer the best Arkansas mountain biking with many trails, you are sure to find at least one that suits your tastes and needs. Cedar Lake trail is a perfect trail to take if you bring your camping gear with you and plan on staying for a few days. Access to this trail starts from the Cedar Lake day use parking area or any of the surrounding camping grounds.

These trails are best taken at a slow leisurely pace to give you the opportunity to observe the waterfowl and wading birds that can be found in the area. There are no big hills so even young children can come along without feeling too challenged. There are three climbs to the Oachita Mountaintop and provide enough of an Arkansas mountain biking challenge for an experienced rider. After a long day of riding you can cool off at the swimming beach and there also showers and electricity.

The Charlton trail is also worth investigating when mountain biking in Arkansas it gives you access to a great swimming area as well as some beautiful scenery. There are enough challenging trails for you and at the same time the trails are relaxing enough that they can be done in as little as two hours. You will get beautiful views of the valley and in the spring and summer there are gorgeous displays of wild flowers.

Hot Springs

Hot Springs is another great place to go mountain biking in Arkansas. The Cedar Glades trail is a well maintained biking trail that although not technically difficult offers a pleasant ride to anyone who wants to spend a fun afternoon. This is one trail that offers some fast downhill rides so get ready to grab onto your brakes! There are a few small creek crossings but for the most this is an easy trail to ride. Great for beginners.