Mountain bikers from across the region can now start planning their fall trip to Hot Springs as registration opens for the 8th annual Güdrun Northwoods Mountain Bike Festival, set for October 23–25, 2026.
Held on the world-class Northwoods Trails, the three-day festival has grown into one of the premier mountain biking events in the South, blending competitive racing, community rides, and family-friendly activities into a single weekend celebration of trail culture.
A Full Weekend of Riding and Racing
The Güdrun festival offers something for every type of rider, from first-timers to elite racers. The weekend lineup includes a mix of competitive events and laid-back rides, highlighted by:
- The crowd-favorite Slow Roll through downtown Hot Springs
- Enduro racing and downhill-focused events
- Dual slalom competitions
- Time trials and youth races, including Strider events
- The Attila the Hun cross-country race, part of the Arkansas Mountain Bike Championship Series
Endurance riders can also take on the Ouachita Triple Crown, a long-distance challenge connecting multiple trail systems around Lake Ouachita.
Part of a Growing Statewide Scene
Now entering its eighth year, Güdrun has evolved from a grassroots gathering into a major stop on Arkansas’s mountain biking calendar. The 2026 event continues to build on that momentum, drawing riders from across the country to experience the Ouachita Mountains and Hot Springs’ expanding trail network.
“We’re changing things up a bit this year,” Traci Berry, trails coordinator for Visit Hot Springs, said. “We’re fortunate to continue working with some great folks with TACO [Trail Advocacy Coalition of the Ouachitas] and Jackalope Cycling + ARHC Chuck Campbell. We’ll be adding the Ozark Foundation into the mix of folks who assist us in putting on this major event. The enduros will be their races and will become part of the Arkansas Enduro Series lineup, which we believe will take our popular enduro races to the next level. Not only does the festival allow us to collaborate with some awesome folks from around the state, but it also brings back visitors who have become friends every year. It’s a cycling family reunion of sorts.”
The festival’s move to late October in recent years has helped improve trail conditions and rider experience, with cooler temperatures and prime fall riding.
More Than Just Racing
While competition is a major draw, Güdrun is equally known for its welcoming, festival-like atmosphere. Vendors, group rides, and social events throughout the weekend create an environment that appeals to riders, families, and spectators alike.
From kids lining up for their first race to seasoned riders chasing podium spots, the event continues to reflect the inclusive spirit of Arkansas’s mountain biking community.
Current Schedule:
Friday, October 23
Cedar Glades Hilltop
- 8 a.m. — 11 a.m. OTC Check-in
- 9 a.m. — 3 p.m. Gudrun Packet Pick-up
- Noon — OTC Start
- *ALL DAY Pre-ride
Downtown 420 Eats
- 4 p.m. — Slow Roll Check-in
- 4:50 p.m. — Pre-ride meeting
- 5 p.m. — Roll Out
- 6 p.m. — Opening Night Party
Saturday, October 24
Cedar Glades Hilltop
- 7 a.m. — Attila Packet Pick-up
- 8 a.m. — Attila XC Race Start
- 9 a.m. — Gudrun Packet Pick-up
- 2 p.m. — Attila the Hun + AMBCS Awards
- 5 p.m. — Dual Slalom
Sunday, October 25
Cedar Glades Hilltop
- 8 a.m. — Gudrun Packet Pickup
- 9 a.m. — Full Enduro
- 10 a.m. — Mini Enduro
- Noon — Strider Race
- 1 p.m. — W & C Time Trial
- 2 p.m. — Awards Ceremony
**Schedule Subject to Change
Plan Your Trip
The festival takes place October 23–25, 2026, at Northwoods Trails in Hot Springs. Riders are encouraged to register early, as many events have limited field sizes and have filled quickly in past years.
For those looking to make a weekend of it, Hot Springs offers a mix of trail access, downtown amenities, and nearby outdoor recreation that makes it one of Arkansas’s top mountain biking destinations.
Whether you’re chasing a finish line or just out for a fun ride with friends, Güdrun remains one of the can’t-miss events on the Arkansas cycling calendar.
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!
