Welcome to our Calendar of Events.
Arkansas Outside is NOT the owner or organizer of these events (unless otherwise noted). We aggregate these events into this one place to allow our readers a chance to see what outdoor recreation events are going on around the state. There is no need for FOMO when playing outside.
If you’re looking for a specific type of event you can use the following links:
- Running (Road & Trail)
- Cycling (Road, Mountain, Gravel, etc.)
- Multisport (Triathlon, Duathlon, Adventure Racing, etc.)
- Paddling (Kayak, Canoe, Raft, Tubing, etc.)
- Climbing (Rocks, not trees)
- Trail Love Days (Volunteer Opportunities)
Are we missing an event? Enter your event here:
We’ll see you on the trail.
The River Classic
RIVER CLASSIC SEPT. 12, 2026
In 2015, a small group of cyclists who wanted to support Young Life’s work in South Little Rock decided to organize a cycling fundraiser and what is now the Young Life River Classic was born. In the eleven years since, the event has grown from fewer than 50 riders to more than 300 in 2025.
Throughout, we’ve remained focused on two things:
- Producing a USA Cycling sanctioned, well-supported event for cyclists of all levels, and
- Supporting Young Life’s mission to serve teenagers from underserved communities south of Interstate 630.
Big Dam Bridge Training Program
The River Classic is again part of the Big Dam Bridge 100 official training program. Through a partnership with the Big Dam Bridge Foundation and Arvest Bank, participants in the Big Dam Bridge training program will ride the River Classic as a “Dress Rehearsal” for the BDB100 that is two weeks after our event. Find out more about the training program at www.thebigdambridge100.com.
What is the River Classic?
- A USA Cycling-sanctioned, fully supported ride with great fun, food and fellowship
- This is a fully supported ride, with on-site mechanics and SAG, well-stocked rest stops and route markers from RouteArrows to make navigation easier.
- A ride with three distance options for every level of cyclists:
-
- 23.5 miles for beginners or those that just want to cruise
- 40.6 miles for those looking for a weekend challenge
- 63.6-mile route for experienced cyclists
Registration
Registration for the 2026 ride is now open!
Lunch will be provided after the ride by Corky’s!
Event Details
Packet Pick-up will have two options: 1) Friday, September 11 at Spokes bike shop in the Pleasant Ridge shopping center on Cantrell from 12-1:30 PM and 4:30-6:00 PM, or 2) Saturday, September 12 at the event venue at Ace Glass from 6:30-7:45 AM.
The 2026 River Classic will depart from the Ace Glass Corporate Headquarters (3101 Dugan Street, near the LR Airport) Saturday morning at 8am.
We will provide post-ride food and drinks, and all participants will receive a free photo from RBS Pics Photography!
All courses are well-marked by RouteArrows and we have several aid stations along the route where Young Life leaders and students will be ready to provide assistance.
All participants will receive an event t-shirt.
We hope to see you on Saturday, September 12!
What Past Riders Say About the River Classic
“Ride was great. Food was great. Fellowship was great. Well done Young Life!”
“Great social event. Great course!”
“I don’t ride in this area much, so it’s fun to enjoy new scenery.”
“Love supporting the cause!”
“After party was great. The T-shirts are great!”
“I really enjoy riding with a big group and meeting new people.”
“Love the start and finish location and the courses.”
“The route was very nice.”
Related Events
<?php echo do_shortcode(“[the_ad_group(2858)]”); ?>