Central Arkansas Continues to Grow its Mountain Bike Cred

Central Arkansas is experiencing a surge in mountain biking trails and bike parks. The region’s rapid growth in mountain biking trails and parks has transformed it into a premier destination for riders of all skill levels. The area has been home to popular mountain bike trails for decades including the Camp Robinson Trails, Burns Park, Allsop Park, and Boyle Park.

In 2020, the growth seen in places like Bentonville and Hot Springs began to flow into Little Rock and the central Arkansas area. First, the Arkansas State Parks and Arkansas Parks & Recreation Foundation partnered to create the monument trails at Pinnacle Mountain State Park. These were the first professionally built trails in the area created by Rogue Trail Building and Jagged Axe Trail Building out of northwest Arkansas.

Soon the Little Rock Parks & Recreation Department also partnered with  APRF to build the River Mountain Trail system. Below are the recent projects we’ve been watching.

A Growing Network of Trails

The driving force behind this biking boom is the dedication of local communities, cycling organizations, and land management agencies. Collaborative efforts have led to the development of a diverse network of trails, ranging from beginner-friendly paths to challenging technical courses.

• Big Rock Quarry Pump Track: The Big Rock Quarry Pump Track was a community-driven project that transformed a former rock quarry into a vibrant outdoor recreation space. Local cyclists and advocates, inspired by the success of similar pump tracks in other cities, began advocating for the creation of a similar facility in North Little Rock. Through fundraising efforts, community support, and collaboration with city officials, the project gained momentum. With the help of professional trail builders, the abandoned quarry was transformed into a dynamic pump track, complete with berms, rollers, and jumps, offering a challenging yet enjoyable experience for riders of all ages and skill levels. The project’s success has not only enhanced the city’s recreational offerings but has also fostered a strong sense of community and a shared passion for cycling.

• Blue Mountain:  The Blue Mountain Bike Trails near Little Rock were initiated by the Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission and supported by The Nature Conservancy in Arkansas. Acquired in 2021, Blue Mountain forms part of a 12,000-acre conservation and recreation corridor in central Arkansas. The $5 million project was aimed at preserving rare habitats and offering outdoor recreational opportunities. Affordable Trail Solutions built the trails, which opened in 2023, providing 7.6 miles of paths for bikers and hikers, enhancing the region’s appeal for outdoor activities​( The trails offer stunning views of the Little Maumelle River Valley and provide a challenging yet rewarding experience for riders of all skill levels. The new trail system also connects to the Rattlesnake Ridge Trail System to the east via the Tarantula Hawk Trail.

• Benton Bike Park: The Benton Mountain Bike Park in Benton, AR was the result of years of planning and collaboration between the City of Benton and the Benton Parks and Recreation Department. According to an article from Arkansas Outside, the park was funded through a combination of grants and park funds, with a total cost of around $4 million. The park opened in June of 2024.

• Boyle Park: There have been mountain bike trails at Boyle Park in Midtown Little Rock for decades. Mostly hand-built by volunteers, last year the parks department hired Affordable Trail Solutions to add several miles of improved trail to the east and southern part of the park to complement the Grilled Trails in the northwest section of the park. They also added several short downhill trails that are progressively more technical. ATS is currently creating a skills area near the park playground. Park staff anticipates a grand opening of the entire system at the end of October.

• Allsopp Park: The city is working to finalize a contract with Affordable Trail Solutions to get started on a reworking of the loop trail in the north section of Allsopp Park. This is designed to be a bike/walk/run trail and park staff expects that many of the drainage issues and fall-line trails can be fixed or improved. Work is expected to start on that later this Fall. (On a personal note, this is the first place that I ever rode a mountain bike.)
• Hindman Park: Parks Director Leland Couch, held 3 interest group meetings at Hindman Park in Southwest Little Rock to present a master plan for the park. Director Couch has said that the goal is to improve the disk golf course to make it a venue that could attract regional tournaments. He also has worked with Progressive Trail Design to design a mountain bike trail system that would attract National Interscholastic Cycling Association events. The city does not currently have a venue that is suitable for their events.
• Reservoir Park: The park was hit hard by the 2023 tornado and was used as a collection point for tornado debris for several months after the tornado. This left the park as almost a clean slate. An initial plan was drawn up by Cromwell Architects for rebuilding the park. That plan included some mountain bike trails. The park had a volunteer mountain bike trail that previously went through much of the area that the disk golf course was in. The city is currently working on rehabilitating the pavilion and the tennis courts. (Projects in both Hindman Park and Reservoir Park will rely heavily on the passage of a sales tax on the ballot in November.)
• Burns Park: Mountain biking infrastructure was heavily damaged by the 2023 tornado. The BMX track is currently being revitalized under the watchful eye of Dave Larson of Angry Dave’s Bicycles. According to the North Little Rock Mayor’s office, the once popular “Green Trail” at Burns Park will be rebuilt starting later in the fall by a combination of city park staff and volunteers. Other plans for mountain bike trails in Burns and Emerald Parks appear to be on the back burner.

Economic Impact and Community Benefits

The growth of mountain biking trails and parks could have a significant economic impact on central Arkansas. Visitors from across the country are drawn to the region’s natural beauty and world-class trails, boosting local businesses, hotels, and restaurants.

Moreover, mountain biking has become a popular recreational activity for residents, promoting healthy lifestyles and fostering a sense of community. The trails could also become popular venues for cycling events, attracting both professional and amateur riders.

The Future of Mountain Biking in Central Arkansas

As the popularity of mountain biking continues to rise, there are plans for further expansion of trails and facilities in central Arkansas. Local organizations are working to secure funding and partnerships to create new riding destinations and improve existing trails.

The region’s commitment to sustainable tourism and outdoor recreation ensures that mountain biking will remain a vibrant and growing aspect of its cultural landscape. Central Arkansas is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for mountain biking enthusiasts seeking adventure, natural beauty, and a welcoming community.