The first round of voting in the 2026 Arkansas March Mountain Bike Madness bracket delivered exactly what we expected: strong opinions, spirited debate, and plenty of hometown pride. Now the competition moves into Round Two, which began at midnight and will run through midnight on Friday, March 13.
Sixteen trail systems from across the Natural State remain in the running, and the matchups are only getting tougher. From the purpose-built flow trails of Northwest Arkansas to rugged backcountry routes in the Ouachita Mountains and community trail systems across the state, Arkansas riders now have some difficult choices to make.
Voting is open now, and mountain bikers are encouraged to support their favorite trail systems before the next round narrows the field even further.
Northwest Arkansas Region Showdown
Northwest Arkansas continues to showcase some of the most recognizable trail systems in the state, each offering a different style of riding.
Slaughter Pen in Bentonville is a global destination with miles of machine-built flow trails, jumps, and progressive features that draw riders from around the world. Just east of Rogers, Hobbs State Park–Conservation Area provides a completely different experience with long backcountry loops, rocky terrain, and scenic Ozark forest riding.
Historic Devil’s Den State Park remains one of Arkansas’s classic mountain bike destinations. Its rocky singletrack winds through Civilian Conservation Corps-era structures and rugged Ozark terrain. Meanwhile, Lake Leatherwood & Great Passion Play near Eureka Springs have grown into one of the region’s most exciting trail networks, featuring gravity lines, technical descents, and sweeping views above the lake.
Central Arkansas and River Valley Contenders
Central Arkansas riders are no strangers to friendly rivalry, and Round Two includes several trail systems that have built passionate followings.
Pinnacle Mountain State Park has become a centerpiece of the region’s trail development, offering miles of modern singletrack just minutes from downtown Little Rock. Not far away, the combination of Rattlesnake Ridge and Blue Mountain provides a more rugged ride with technical climbs, rocky ridgelines, beginner loops, and expanding trail options.
Further west, Mount Nebo State Park delivers one of the most scenic rides in the state, with mountain top views and classic singletrack that mixes fast flow with rocky sections. And in North Central Arkansas, Red Lick Mountain Bike Park continues to gain attention for its purpose-built downhill and enduro style terrain that challenges riders looking for gravity fueled fun.
South and West Arkansas Backcountry Battles
The southern and western regions of Arkansas bring together some of the most iconic and challenging riding in the state.
Hot Springs’ Northwoods Trails have quickly become a national level trail system with purpose-built flow trails, technical descents, and events that draw riders from across the country. But standing in its way is the legendary Womble Trail, a long time favorite that stretches across the Ouachita Mountains and is widely considered one of the most beautiful backcountry rides in the region.
Nearby, the Lake Ouachita Vista Trail (LOViT) offers miles of rugged shoreline riding with constant views of one of Arkansas’s largest lakes. It faces off against the historic Ouachita National Recreation Trail, a long distance route that provides a true wilderness riding experience across the Ouachita National Forest.
Delta and Eastern Arkansas Trail Systems
Eastern Arkansas and the Delta region continue to prove that great mountain biking can be found well beyond the mountains.
Craighead Forest Park in Jonesboro has become a regional hub for riders with its growing network of well designed singletrack loops winding through the forest around the lake. In Central Arkansas, Woolly Hollow State Park offers fast, flowing trails and beautiful lake views that make it a favorite for riders of all skill levels.
Meanwhile, the Lakewoods Trail System in Monticello showcases Southeast Arkansas riding with rolling terrain and smooth singletrack. It will face off against Bluffton Preserve, a hidden gem known for its scenic Ozark Plateau riding and quiet forest setting.
Your Vote Matters
The Arkansas March Mountain Bike Madness bracket is meant to be fun, but it also highlights just how many incredible places there are to ride across the state. From volunteer built trail systems to internationally recognized destinations, every trail in this competition represents a passionate local riding community.
Now it is time for riders, trail advocates, and outdoor enthusiasts to help decide which trail systems advance.
Voting for Round Two is open now and runs through midnight on March 13.
Cast your vote and support your favorite trails here:
Expect plenty of friendly trash talk, rallying from local trail groups, and spirited campaigning as we move toward the next round of the 2026 Arkansas March Mountain Bike Madness bracket.
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!
