Discover Arkansas’ finest singletrack with Freehub Magazine’s Arkansas Photo Book, a visual guide to the Natural State’s trails.
The first issue of Freehub’s 15th year takes us on an adventure through the rocky ascents of Mount Nebo, the flowing trail networks of Bentonville and Fayetteville, and the lush wilderness of Arkansas’ backcountry. The state’s mountain biking scene has exploded in recent years, welcoming riders with open arms and a huge dose of Southern hospitality. However, mountain biking in Arkansas has been around for a long time before this modern boom. The foundation for this growth is a storied past, comprised of passionate individuals who worked tirelessly to shape not only the trails but also the culture of Arkansas mountain biking. Freehub has woven this tale throughout 116 pages of the new, carefully crafted Freehub Arkansas Photo Book.
The issue dedicated to mountain biking in The Natural State features contributions from many local writers and photographers, such as Liz Chrisman, Kate Austin, Matthew Porter, Collin Sigars, and myself. It also includes content from national professionals, including Riley Seebeck, Leslie Kehmeir, and Jess Daddio. The issue provides both inside and outside views of the rich history of mountain biking in Arkansas, with insider information from the likes of Tim Scott, How Kuff, Kai Caddy, and Rachel Olzer. Local bike shop owners are also quoted throughout the issue. They share some of our favorite stories about the long growth of mountain biking in the state.
The pages of this guide offer a glimpse into Arkansas’ evolution as a premier destination for mountain biking. From the rolling terrain of the Ozark and Ouachita ranges to the intricate network of singletrack trails in the northwestern region, they explore Arkansas’ rich history of fat-tire riding while paying tribute to its best trails. This guide features extensive photo galleries and in-depth features crafted by locals who are passionate about mountain biking in Arkansas. It serves as a perfect companion for anyone planning a road trip to experience the state’s exciting mountain biking trails.
I want to extend a huge congratulations to Freehub’s senior photographer, Riley Seebeck (@flowphoto_co), for capturing the heart of central Arkansas in his captivating cover photo. The photo features local riders Jen Brazil (in front) and Johanna Flores as they descend the Sunset Point Connector trail in a wash of early morning autumn light on Mount Nebo.
Freehub is celebrating its 15th year with a great issue. Get a sneak peek here if you can’t wait for it to arrive in your mailbox. You can subscribe to print or digital editions here. There are also issues available at some local bike shops. Be on the lookout.
But Wait! There’s more!
To celebrate the release of Freehub’s Arkansas Photo Book and give back to the stewards of some of the Natural State’s best trails, Freehub is hosting a virtual fundraiser to benefit the Ozark Off Road Cyclists (OORC).
The OORC has been instrumental in the development of trail systems at Lake Fayetteville, Mt. Sequoyah, Kessler Mountain Regional Park, Lake Leatherwood Park in Eureka Springs, Devil’s Den State Park, Hobbs State Park, Lake Wedington Recreational Area, The Upper Buffalo, Lincoln Lake, the Runway Bike Park, the Great Passion Play, Gregory Park, City Lake in Siloam Springs and numerous other projects. They are committed to developing sustainable trails to support multiple user groups including hikers, mountain bikers, and trail runners while identifying appropriate opportunities for mountain bike progression.
Enter Here
Enter for a chance to win a brand new Pivot Switchblade and support the OORC’s amazing network of trails!
Contributing Writers
- Liz Chrisman | @liz_chrisman
- Jess Daddio | @jessdaddio
- Joe Jacobs | @arkansasoutside
- Matthew Porter | @matthewjamesporter
Contributing Photographers
- Eric Arce | @pedalhomie
- Jimmy Astleford | @jimi_sendricks
- Kate Austin | @kateaustinphotography
- Liz Chrisman | @liz_chrisman
- Leslie Kehmeier | @thewideeyedworld
- Tim Scott |
- Riley Seebeck | @flowphoto_co
- Collin Sigars | @collinsigars
- Emily Sierra Taylor | @em.sierra
