Buffalo Headwaters Challenge: An Off-Grid Mountain Bike Festival

Buffalo Headwaters Challenge: An Off-Grid Mountain Bike Festival

Bike Bentonville

The Buffalo Headwaters Challenge, a three-day all-inclusive mountain bike festival presented by Adventure Subaru, is set to take place from January 23rd to 25th, 2025.

The event promises an “off the grid” experience with five meals, libations, primitive tent and RV camping, live music, and exciting rides. The highlight of the festival is the annual Challenge ride on Saturday, January 25th. This 40-mile semi-supported backcountry route offers stunning scenery and a few marked bailouts for those who need them.

Buffalo Headwaters Challenge
Buffalo Headwaters Challenge 2025. Click to register.

The Buffalo Headwaters Challenge is not a race; finishing the course is considered a victory. Riders can expect to encounter DJs playing music in the woods and enjoy the famous BOC grilled cheese and soup at the iconic Fire Tower.

Fire Tower Grilled Cheese. Photo courtesy of Kelly Newberg
Fire Tower Grilled Cheese. Photo courtesy of Kelly Newberg

On Sunday, participants can choose between a gravel challenge group ride to the Buffalo Outdoor Center for lunch or take advantage of free shuttle service to the DH runs throughout the day.

All proceeds from the event go towards supporting the club and the over 10,000 hours of volunteer work they contribute each year. Due to this, registration fees are non-refundable. In case of inclement weather, the event will be rescheduled, but refunds won’t be issued.

Registration opened on September 6th. The first 200 registrants will receive a commemorative coaster set, and all attendees will get a pair of custom socks. Members can also participate in a raffle with exciting prizes, including a two-night stay at a cabin, gift cards, and more.

On-site activities include post-ride yoga on Saturday and a guided trail run on Sunday. A limited number of RV spots are available for purchase for an additional fee.

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Getting the crowd psyched.
Getting the crowd psyched.

The Buffalo Headwaters Challenge offers excellent value for money, with five meals, live music from two bands, free drinks, scenic routes, and a special swag bag. Dinners will be provided by Phat Tire Bike Shop and OORC, with lunch at the Fire Tower sponsored by the Buffalo Outdoor Center.

Attendees are encouraged to bring their own cups to minimize waste. Recycling stations will be available on the event grounds.

Calling volunteers!
Calling volunteers!

The organizers are also seeking volunteers to help with the event. Those interested can sign up at https://givepul.se/mz4hfr

Fleet Feet Little Rock

The Buffalo Headwaters Challenge is grateful for the continued support of its sponsors, including Adventure Subaru, Ozark Natural Foods, Lewis Automotive, Liquor World, Maple Street Pilates, Stronghold, Subway, Fossil Cove, Phat Tire Bike Shop, and Buffalo Outdoor Center.

Register Here! Today! We Mean It!

You can get a better idea of the kind of event this is from our article from the 2022 festival.

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