Registration has opened for two of the great bike rides in Northwest Arkansas. Arkansas has hundreds of wonderful small-town squares and hubs for community activity. The cities of Fayetteville and Bentonville have some of the more well-known squares in the state, homes to various street markets, restaurants, nightlife, connected to hotels, etc. In both cases, the “feel” of the square branches out several blocks from the squares. Twice a year, a major bike ride, not a race is hosted between the cities. This year the Spring version starts in Fayetteville and the Fall version starts in Bentonville. Utilizing the Razorback Regional Greenway as it heads north out of Fayetteville this Spring, the route passes through Springdale, Lowell, Rogers, and eventually Bentonville. For those who have worked out shuttles, you can get a quick lift back to the start or, after enjoying the reception in Bentonville, turn your bike around and head back.
The ride this Spring is on Saturday, May 6 (the Fall event starting in Bentonville is on October 7). Registration for both events is now open. It’s about a 30-mile trip each way, mostly on the protected bike path. There are aid stations along the way with a bit of a party going on in Springdale. You can find out more about the event at the Fayetteville Parks website.
(All photos courtesy of Kate Austin Photography via City of Fayetteville)
