Cyclists traveling between Pea Ridge and Bentonville will soon have a safer alternative to riding along busy Highway 72.
The 808 Ranch at the Ridge has partnered with Trailblazers to create a new cycling connection, “The 808 Spur,” a bypass designed to move riders off the high-traffic corridor and onto a dedicated path. The ranch will grant an easement along Highway 72 between East Plentywood and Dove roads to address long-standing safety concerns as Northwest Arkansas continues to grow.
New Highway 72 Cycling Bypass to Improve Safety Between Pea Ridge and Bentonville
The stretch of Highway 72 has become a popular link between major cycling routes in Northwest Arkansas. Increased residential and commercial development has led to higher vehicle volumes, creating safety challenges for gravel cyclists and road riders who use the corridor to connect Pea Ridge and Bentonville.
“As the cycling community in Northwest Arkansas has grown exponentially in the last 15 years, traffic volume on Highway 72 has become a larger issue,” said Eli Steiger, operations manager for The 808 Ranch. “Our family wanted to provide a safer route for riders to use, and Trailblazers have graciously stepped in to make it a reality.”
Trailblazers Funding Construction of The 808 Spur Bike Path
Trailblazers will fund the clearing and construction of the eight foot wide path. ARCO Construction will serve as the contractor responsible for building the new segment. Once complete, The 808 Spur will bridge the gap between Plentywood and Dove Road, moving cyclists off Highway 72 and onto a dedicated path that offers a safer and more enjoyable riding experience.
“Reaching an agreement with The 808 Ranch is a testament to the power of community collaboration. The owners of the ranch have been incredibly supportive, recognizing the value of a safe, connected network for everyone in the area. Their generosity allows us to finally bridge the gap between Plentywood and Dove Road, moving gravel cyclists off the busy Highway 72 corridor and onto a dedicated path that is safer and far more enjoyable,” said Victor Gurel, CEO of Trailblazers.
Flags marking portions of the future path have already been placed. The route is expected to open to riders by late March, weather permitting. A formal grand opening event and group ride are planned for early spring.
Community Leaders Praise Collaboration for Northwest Arkansas Trail Connectivity
Nathan See, mayor of Pea Ridge, praised the partnership behind the project.
“The partnership between the Steiger Family of The 808 Ranch and the Walton Family exemplifies a shared commitment to community and conservation, creating a trail connector that not only unites our neighbors but also honors and preserves the natural beauty we cherish,” See said. “Together, they have forged a path toward a healthier, safer, more connected future for all.”
About The 808 Ranch in Northwest Arkansas
The 808 Ranch is a purebred Black Angus operation with three locations in Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas. The ranch focuses on precision genetics, sustainable land practices, innovative technology, and four generations of ranching heritage to continually improve the beef eating experience for consumers.
About Trailblazers and the Oz Trails Network
Founded in 1996 as Bentonville Bella Vista Trailblazers Inc., the nonprofit now known as NWA Trailblazers develops cycling and pedestrian infrastructure across Northwest Arkansas. The organization has helped design and build more than 300 miles of multi use trails under the Oz Trails brand, connecting communities and expanding access for cycling, running, and walking.
This article was originally published on ArkansasOutside.com, your trusted source for outdoor news and updates in The Natural State. Unless otherwise credited, all photos included in this piece are the property of Arkansas Outside, LLC. We take pride in sharing the beauty and adventures of Arkansas through our lens—thank you for supporting our work!
