The best MTB trails around Bentonville

Embark on the Traverse and Mother Necessity Loop for an easy mountain biking adventure through the forested trails of Handcut Hollow. This 4.1-mile (6.6 km) route, with a gentle 448 feet (136 metres) of elevation gain, offers a fun, gravity-oriented ride that you can complete in about 36 minutes. As you navigate the Traverse Loop section, you'll encounter numerous tight switchbacks, while the Mother Necessity trail presents a more technical, hand-built climb featuring "baby head rocks" and loose rock. Keep an eye out for unique art pieces integrated along the trails, adding a distinctive visual element to your ride, and you'll even pass by the historic Valley View Schoolhouse.

To begin your ride, head to the Handcut Hollow Trailhead, which offers convenient access and likely parking for your vehicle. It's a straightforward starting point for this loop. Be aware that the Mother Necessity climb can become quite muddy and have more loose rock after rain, so it's wise to plan your visit for drier conditions to ensure the best trail experience. Checking local weather forecasts before you go will help you avoid any unpleasant surprises.

This mountain biking loop is nestled within Bentonville's Handcut Hollow MTB Park, an area known for its well-maintained and engaging trail networks. The design of the Traverse and Mother Necessity Loop specifically caters to mountain bikers looking for a dynamic yet accessible ride. The inclusion of unique art pieces along the route, alongside the historic Valley View Schoolhouse, adds a cultural and visual layer to your outdoor activity, making it more than just a ride through the woods.

Oscar's Loop offers an easy mountain biking experience through a serene forest setting. You will ride through tall trees where sunlight filters through dense green leaves, creating a peaceful atmosphere. The 8.7-mile (13.9 km) route features a mix of smooth singletrack, some rocky sections, and fun technical features like berms and bridges. With an elevation gain of 444 feet (135 metres), you can expect to complete this loop in about 1 hour and 12 minutes.

Planning your visit to Oscar's Loop is straightforward, as it is a family-friendly trail within the Coler Mountain Bike Preserve. You are welcome to bring Class 1 e-bikes, and dogs are permitted on a leash, making it accessible for many riders. The preserve itself provides amenities such as The Homestead at Coler Preserve, which features a cafe nestled in the woods. This makes it easy to grab a refreshment before or after your ride, enhancing your overall experience.

This route is a key connector within the Coler Mountain Bike Preserve, leading you directly to "The Hub." This central point allows you to access other trails and explore more of the preserve's network. Oscar's Loop stands out as a well-maintained and enjoyable option for those looking for a relaxed yet engaging ride in the Bentonville area.

The Slaughter Pen loop offers an easy mountain biking experience, covering 10.3 miles (16.6 km) with a manageable 611 feet (186 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect to complete this route in about 1 hour and 22 minutes, making it a great option for a quick ride. As you pedal, you will encounter diverse terrain, winding through natural landscapes and even integrated urban areas. Keep an eye out for unique trail art and features, including the notable Castle, which serves as a central point for many descents.

Planning your visit to the Slaughter Pen loop is straightforward, as the trail system is well-integrated into Bentonville. You can access the route directly from town, and parking is generally available near various trailheads. This convenient setup makes it easy to begin your ride without hassle. If you use an e-bike, Class 1 pedal-assist models are permitted on these trails.

This route provides an excellent introduction to the acclaimed Slaughter Pen Trails, showcasing the region's blend of natural beauty and urban integration. You will experience glimpses of classic Ozark ridgelines and deep river valleys as you ride. The trail system is known for its creative features and thoughtful design, setting it apart as a significant destination for mountain biking in the area.

The Handcut Hollow Traverse Loop provides an easy mountain biking experience, covering 8.1 miles (13.1 km) with a manageable 491 feet (150 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect to complete this ride in about 1 hour and 9 minutes. The trail is known for its "old-school hand cut tech" feel, featuring roughly 75 tight switchbacks that offer a distinct challenge. As you navigate the terrain, keep an eye out for unique art installations, including a giant axe sculpture, integrated into the natural surroundings. This route delivers an engaging ride for those who appreciate technical, hand-built trails.

Accessing Handcut Hollow MTB Park is generally straightforward, making it easy to begin your adventure on this unique trail system. You will find that this route offers a quieter, more solitary riding experience compared to other popular trails in Bentonville. This can be ideal if you prefer to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful ride. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to further enhance the sense of solitude.

What truly sets this trail apart is its commitment to a distinctive "OG mountain feel," blending challenging hand-built sections with historical elements. The route passes by the restored historic Valley View Schoolhouse (Bldg. No. 13), adding a touch of local history to your ride. This combination of technical terrain and cultural landmarks makes the Handcut Hollow Traverse Loop a notable destination within the region.