Mountain bikers looking for gravity-fueled competition will have plenty of opportunities in Arkansas this fall as organizers have announced the 2026 Arkansas Enduro Series and Arkansas Downhill Series schedules.
The two-race series will bring riders to some of the state’s most challenging and scenic mountain biking destinations, highlighting Arkansas’ growing reputation as a premier destination for gravity riding and racing.
Registration for both series opens June 12, 2026.
Arkansas Enduro Series Returns to Four Iconic Venues
Since its launch, the Arkansas Enduro Series has become one of the region’s premier mountain bike race series, attracting riders from across the South and Midwest. Enduro racing combines multiple timed downhill stages connected by untimed transfer sections, rewarding riders who can navigate technical terrain while maintaining endurance throughout the day.
According to the Arkansas Enduro Series, competitors can expect a mix of technical descents, fast flow trails, rock gardens and demanding mountain terrain throughout the 2026 season.
The four-race schedule includes:
Round 1: Bentonville + Bella Vista Enduro
Aug. 29-30, 2026
The season opener will connect trail systems in Bentonville and Bella Vista, offering riders a mix of purpose-built flow trails and technical Ozark terrain.
Round 2: Eureka Enduro
Sept. 26-27, 2026
The Eureka Enduro returns as part of the annual Eureka Springs Fat Tire Festival. The event is known for steep descents, rocky trails and the unique mountain biking culture that has made Eureka Springs a favorite destination among gravity riders.
Round 3: GUDRUN Enduro
Oct. 24-25, 2026
Held during the GUDRUN Northwoods Mountain Bike Festival in Hot Springs, the event showcases the challenging terrain of the Northwoods Trail System, one of Arkansas’ most popular mountain bike destinations.
Round 4: Mount Nebo Enduro
Nov. 21-22, 2026
The season concludes at Mount Nebo State Park, where racers will tackle rugged mountain terrain and long descents overlooking the Arkansas River Valley.
Arkansas Downhill Series Returns for Second Season
Following a successful 2025 season, the Arkansas Downhill Series returns with two events designed specifically for riders seeking gravity-focused competition.
Unlike enduro racing, downhill events feature a single timed descent, with racers competing for the fastest run down the mountain.
The 2026 schedule includes:
Round 1: Eureka Springs Downhill
Sept. 26-27, 2026
Held alongside the Eureka Springs Fat Tire Festival, the race will take advantage of the area’s steep terrain and technical trail features.
Round 2: OZ Trails Bike Park Downhill
Dec. 4-5, 2026
The season finale will provide riders with another opportunity to compete in a dedicated downhill format as Arkansas continues expanding gravity riding opportunities.
Little Rock Area Absent From 2026 Schedule
One notable change to the 2026 Arkansas Enduro Series schedule is the absence of a Central Arkansas race. In previous seasons, the series has included events at Pinnacle Mountain State Park and the River Mountain trail system, giving riders a chance to test themselves on the rocky, technical terrain that has helped establish Central Arkansas as a mountain biking destination.
This year’s schedule shifts the focus to Northwest Arkansas, Eureka Springs, Hot Springs and Mount Nebo. While organizers have not announced a reason for the change, the omission leaves a gap in the series for riders from the Little Rock metropolitan area.
The Central Arkansas mountain biking community continues to grow, with expanding trail opportunities at Pinnacle Mountain State Park, the Maumelle Pinnacles project, Rattlesnake Ridge Natural Area, Camp Robinson and other regional trail systems. Given the area’s strong riding culture and history of hosting successful enduro events, many riders will likely hope to see a return to Central Arkansas on future Arkansas Enduro Series schedules.
Growth of Gravity Racing in Arkansas
Over the past decade, Arkansas has evolved from an emerging mountain biking destination into one of the nation’s most recognized cycling states. Investments in trail systems across Bentonville, Bella Vista, Hot Springs, Mount Nebo and other communities have created a diverse network of riding opportunities ranging from beginner-friendly flow trails to advanced technical descents.
The Arkansas Enduro Series has played an important role in that growth by creating a competitive platform that showcases the state’s varied terrain while bringing together riders of all skill levels.
Organizers say the 2026 season is expected to be the largest yet, with opportunities for experienced racers chasing series points as well as newcomers looking to experience gravity racing for the first time.
For more information and registration details, visit the Arkansas Enduro Series website.
This updated 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!
