The best traffic-free bike rides in Arkansas

Arkansas offers a substantial network of gravel bike trails where you can enjoy a ride away from traffic. Our guide features over 70 routes, ranging from easy to difficult, with a strong emphasis on secluded paths through the state's diverse landscapes. You'll find options in the mountainous regions and flatter, scenic areas like the Delta.

Arkansas's gravel trails are incredibly diverse. In the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains, expect challenging climbs and descents on forest roads, often described as 'chunky, loose, and razor-sharp' gravel. The Arkansas Delta offers a different experience with routes through farmland and along river levees. Crowley's Ridge provides a unique geological feature with rolling terrain and distinct views. Many routes feature vine-entangled woodlands and bubbling creeks, ensuring a picturesque and varied ride.

While many of Arkansas's gravel trails can be challenging, there are options suitable for families and beginners. Look for routes in flatter areas or those specifically designated as 'easy' in our guide. These often provide a gentler introduction to gravel biking, allowing you to enjoy the scenery without overly strenuous climbs. Always check the route details for elevation and surface descriptions to ensure it matches your group's skill level.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, Arkansas delivers with numerous difficult gravel routes. Many of these are found in the mountainous regions, offering significant elevation gains and technical sections. Routes like the Benson Mountain – Bohannan Mountain loop from Trammel Mountain or the Bohannan Mountain loop from Wesley Cemetery provide extensive distances and considerable climbing, taking you deep into the remote wilderness of the Ozarks.

The fall is often considered the best time for gravel biking in Arkansas, as temperatures cool and the foliage offers stunning colors. Spring also provides pleasant weather, though you might encounter more rain. Summers can be hot and humid, especially in the Delta, but the mountains offer some relief. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potential ice or snow in higher elevations.

Yes, many of Arkansas's gravel routes pass by or near interesting natural and man-made attractions. You might encounter beautiful waterfalls like Tanyard Creek Falls, or scenic lakes such as Lake Sylvia Recreation Area and Lake Wedington Recreation Area. In urban-adjacent areas, you could pass by the impressive Big Dam Bridge or the Murray Lock and Dam on the Arkansas River. Always check the route details for highlights along your chosen path.

Absolutely. Many of the no-traffic gravel routes in Arkansas are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. This is particularly common in areas with extensive forest road networks, such as the Ozark National Forest. For example, the Slaughter Pen Trails – The Castle Drop in loop from Bentonville offers a substantial circular ride.

The komoot community highly rates gravel biking in Arkansas, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the state's extensive network of low-traffic gravel roads, the stunning natural beauty of the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains, and the unique experience of riding through the Arkansas Delta. The sense of remoteness and immersion in nature is a common highlight, along with the challenging yet rewarding terrain.

Parking availability varies by location. In national forest areas or near smaller towns, you'll often find designated parking areas or roadside pull-offs suitable for trail access. For routes starting near more developed areas, like Bentonville, there might be specific parking lots. Always check the starting point details of your chosen route on komoot for information on parking, as it can be limited in very remote sections.

Given the remote nature of many of Arkansas's no-traffic gravel trails, especially those winding through national forests and rural landscapes, wildlife sightings are common. Riders often report seeing deer, various bird species, and occasionally other forest animals. Maintaining a quiet pace and being observant will increase your chances of encountering the local fauna.

While this guide focuses on gravel, Arkansas's cycling landscape is rich with mixed-surface opportunities. Some gravel routes may naturally incorporate short paved sections to connect different gravel segments, or even flow into singletrack trails, particularly in areas like Northwest Arkansas. The state is known for its extensive networks that blend different surfaces, offering a comprehensive riding experience. Always review the route's surface type on komoot to know what to expect.