The Hub at Coler Mountain Bike Preserve
You’ve finally decided to join us in Bentonville, Arkansas, and we can’t wait to welcome you! Here are some tips and recommendations for your first visit. Whether you’re riding a mountain bike, trail running, hiking, have kids, going solo, or bringing your pet, there are trails for everyone to enjoy in Bentonville and beyond in Northwest Arkansas.
First things first. The main trail systems are found at Slaughter Pen, Coler Mountain Bike Preserve, Handcut Hollow. All three systems have a selection of cross country and downhill/enduro trails. Handcut Hollow is mainly known for its downhill runs. You’ll find green (beginner), blue (intermediate), and black (advanced) trails throughout each system. Bentonville trails are known for being progressive, meaning riders should be able to gradually improve their skills.
Know where to stay. In addition to the hundreds of Airbnbs available in town, Visit Bentonville provides a list of bike-friendly hotels.
Know where to rent (and rent in advance if possible). If you’re not bringing your own steed and looking for a rental, check out Phat Tire, OZ E-Bikes, OZ Suspension Solutions, Spoke Adventures, Mojo Cycling, Gearhead, Encore Rentals, Smiley Rentals, Buddy Pegs, and The HUB Bike Lounge.
Photo courtesy of @littleadventuremama on Instagram
It’s family-friendly around here. In addition to beginner-friendly trails, there are museums, attractions, and restaurants, and activities all suited for kids.
Know where to go. Download Trailforks for up-to-date, interactive maps and FlowFeed for trail conditions.
Leave the car behind. The Slaughter Pen system starts just one block off the downtown Bentonville square, so if you’re staying within a couple miles of town, you might find more joy in riding to your route.
Photo courtesy of Hightag
Capture the action. Hightag uses sensors and cameras to capture you having a blast on your ride at places like the OZ Castle and Coler Mountain Bike Preserve. Learn more here and pick up a tag before starting your adventure.
E-bikes are allowed! Renting or bringing your own e-bike is an efficient way to experience more trails in less time.
Expect trail traffic. You will encounter other riders, hikers, pets, and riders going the opposite direction as you. Most trails are bi-directional (except downhill trails specifically marked as one-way). Be courteous and give way to walkers and uphill riders. When passing, politely say, “on your left,” and give a wave. If you need to stop for a break or fix a mechanical issue, pull off to the side of trail whenever possible.
Respect closures. While not very common, a trail could be closed for a number of reasons including construction/improvement, maintenance, or recovery after bad weather. When you see a “trail closed” sign, please respect the closure and do not ride the trail.
Safety first and beware of downhill-only trails. It’s always worth it to be more prepared than not – consider wearing a full-face helmet and knee/elbow pads in case you happen to take a spill, especially if you’re hitting the enduro-style trails. If you crash and need medical assistance, call 9-1-1 and request the trail response team come to your aid. Downhill trails (marked with yellow caution signs) are for bikes only. For safety, walkers/runners are not permitted down these trails.
Eat good food. Here are the restaurants our audience most recommends after a ride or trail run!
Interested in taking a clinic? There are several top-notch coaches in Bentonville who are ready to help you step up your game. Here are a few suggestions:
Looking for a guide and/or shuttle? There are plenty of those, too!
We can’t wait to see you in Bentonville, Arkansas soon!
