The 2024 Arkansas High Country Race, a grueling endurance event that traverses the rugged and remote mountains of Arkansas, is set to challenge even the most experienced cyclists. This demanding race offers a unique opportunity to test physical and mental limits while immersing oneself in the breathtaking beauty of the state’s natural landscapes. With its challenging terrain, unpredictable weather, and isolated trails, the Arkansas High Country Race is a true test of endurance and a testament to the spirit of adventure.
The race uses the Arkansas High Country Route, an Adventure Cycling Association designated route covering over 1000 miles and is made up of approximately 50% gravel and 50% pavement and offers riders the flexibility to choose their own adventure with its three interconnected loops: the South Loop, Central Loop, and Northwest Loop. The South Loop, located on map section 1, begins and ends in Little Rock. The Northwest and Central Loops, found on map section 2, start and finish in Bentonville and Russellville, respectively. Riders can opt to complete one or more loops, or even tackle the entire perimeter, creating a personalized experience.
For those seeking an added challenge, the South Loop features two singletrack options: the Lake Ouachita Vista Trail (LOViT) and the southern portion of the Womble Trail, both designated as International Mountain Bike Association (IMBA) EPIC trails. Given the route’s mix of gravel and pavement, as well as its demanding climbs and descents, careful bike selection is essential. Riders prioritizing speed might opt for a race geometry gravel bike, while those seeking comfort can choose full suspension or fat tires. Although much of the gravel is rideable, sections with washboards and cathead boulders require a minimum tire width of 37mm with tread. The route also traverses a variety of road conditions, including rough national forest roads with loose gravel.
Over the years, the Arkansas High Country Race has offered participants a diverse range of experiences by starting in different locations. In the past, the race has kicked off from popular destinations like Little Rock, Fayetteville, and Hot Springs. However, for both 2024 and 2025, the start and finish line will be located in Russellville, Arkansas. This change in location promises to provide a unique and exciting challenge for riders.
There are Rules
- Self-Supported: Riders are responsible for all their needs, including food, gear, and repairs.
- Mandatory Selfies: Proof of passing specific checkpoints is required.
- Follow the Route: Deviation from the official route can result in disqualification.
- Clockwise or Counterclockwise: Riders can choose their direction.
- Pre-Race Meeting: Mandatory attendance is required.
- SPOT Tracker: Required for tracking and emergency communication.
- No Electric Bikes: Only traditional bicycles are allowed.
- Trail Magic: Outside support is permitted, but must be offered to all riders.
- Safety First: Riders are responsible for their own safety and must adhere to safety rules.
- No Littering, Trespassing, or Being a Jerk: Respect the environment and be courteous to others.
- Report Accidents: Incidents should be reported to race administrators.
The complete rules are at this link.
How to Watch
Starting at 7:00 am on October 5, you can follow the progress of the Arkansas High Country Race from the comfort of your couch using your computer or smartphone! The Trackleaders website provides a live tracker that allows you to see the location of each rider in real-time. This is a great way to stay up-to-date on the race and cheer on your favorite cyclists. Since the race will happen over the course of an entire week, you’ll have plenty of chances to go to the site and catch up with the racers, You may even be able to see when they are going to be near you and go out to cheer them on. The website also features a chat section where you can connect with other race fans and share your thoughts on the competition.
A Notable Competitor Takes up the Challenge in 2024
Meaghan Hackinen, a Canadian ultra-endurance cyclist from the West Coast, has established herself as a formidable force in the world of two-wheeled adventures. Her impressive resume includes a diverse range of challenging rides, from the remote trails of Haida Gwaii to the grueling climbs of Mexico’s high plateaus.
Hackinen’s most recent accomplishment is her victory in the women’s division of the 2024 Tour Divide. This prestigious race, known for its demanding terrain and extreme weather conditions, showcases the endurance and resilience of its participants. In addition to her Tour Divide win, Hackinen has also completed the Trans Am Bike Race, NorthCape4000, Transcontinental Race, and Paris-Brest-Paris.
Her endurance feats extend beyond multi-day races. Hackinen is a two-time World 24 Hour Time Trial Champion and holds the current Women’s Course Record of 478.8 miles. She has also conquered the Everestings challenge five times, a feat that involves climbing the equivalent of Mount Everest in a single day.
In 2021, Hackinen further solidified her reputation by taking the overall win in the BC Epic 1000 while setting a new women’s Fastest Known Time (FKT). She also holds the women’s FKTs on The Big Lonely, Dark Divide 300, Silver State 508, and Log Driver’s Waltz.
