Arkansas cyclists will have no shortage of options this fall as three very different events highlight the diversity of the state’s riding scene. From one of the nation’s largest road rides to a community-based gravel and road challenge, and finally a mountain biking festival that draws athletes from across the region, the season offers something for every type of rider.
Big Dam Bridge 100 (link)
The fall season kicks off Sept. 27 with the Big Dam Bridge 100, the state’s largest annual cycling event. Thousands of riders from across the country will converge on Little Rock and North Little Rock for distances ranging from 15 to 105 miles. The routes showcase central Arkansas with river views, rolling hills and, of course, a ride across the Big Dam Bridge, the longest pedestrian and bicycle bridge in North America.
The event includes an expo at the Statehouse Convention Center the day before, featuring vendors, packet pick-up and a celebratory athlete reception. On ride day, cyclists are supported with fully stocked aid stations, commemorative shirts and medals, and cheering volunteers. The ride’s broad range of distances and its electric atmosphere make it accessible for everyone from first-time riders to seasoned road cyclists.
Pedestal Rock Road Ride and Lick Fork Gravel Grind (link)
On Oct. 18, riders looking for fall color and small-town hospitality will head to Witts Springs in the Boston Mountains for the Pedestal Rock Road Ride and Lick Fork Gravel Grind. The dual event offers both paved and gravel options, with road rides from 10 miles up to a metric century and gravel courses ranging from 16 miles to a challenging 100 kilometers.
The ride is organized by community volunteers and doubles as a fundraiser for local programs. Participants are treated to breakfast, lunch, on-course support and a post-ride celebration. With routes winding through rugged terrain and fiery fall foliage, the event showcases the natural beauty of the Ozarks while supporting a tight-knit community.
Güdrun Mountain Bike Festival (link)
The season closes Nov. 7-9 with the Güdrun Mountain Bike Festival at Northwoods Trails in Hot Springs. The three-day celebration of mountain biking includes the Ouachita Triple Crown, a 178-mile endurance challenge connecting three renowned trails: the Lake Ouachita Vista Trail, the Womble and the Ouachita National Recreation Trail.
The festival offers a range of competitions and activities beyond the Triple Crown, including enduro racing, dual slalom, time trials, a cross-country race that serves as the finale of the Arkansas Mountain Bike Championship Series, and a Strider race for kids. Off the trails, the event features an expo, live entertainment and a community atmosphere that draws riders of all skill levels.
Bringing them all together
We recently spoke with Good Morning Arkansas anchor, Ansley Watson about these three events and others in the state. You can watch the interview here:
A Season of Options
From urban roadways to Ozark gravel and world-class singletrack, Arkansas cyclists can choose their challenge this fall. Whether pedaling across the Arkansas River, winding through mountain hollows or testing skills on rocky descents, these events highlight why the state has become a cycling destination.
Find a complete list of upcoming cycling events across the state in the Arkansas Outside Calendar of Events.
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!
