Best Trails for Cycling Enthusiasts Near Little Rock

Little Rock is a great place to live and play for cycling enthusiasts! With a variety of experiences – from leisure rides to heart-thumping challenges – on hundreds of miles of trails, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for in or near the Arkansas capital city. In fact, Arkansas is home to five International Mountain Bicycling Association epic-rated trails, city-linking bike routes, and the 108-mile Ouachita National Recreation Trail. You’ll find great cycling all over and around Little Rock – even if you don’t have your own bike! Rent a bike in downtown Little Rock or at outdoor recreation stores around town and down by the river and pedal yourself through bike-friendly streets or protected trails. 

With all that great biking on offer, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite trails for cycling enthusiasts near Little Rock!

Trail maps: https://www.littlerock.gov/residents/parks-and-recreation/park-facility-information/trail-maps/ 

Helpful trail and route info: https://www.littlerock.com/experience-little-rock/cycling/routes-and-trail-maps/mountain-bike-trails 

Arkansas River Trail

The Arkansas River Trail provides cool air off of its namesake body of water and breathtaking views on the north and south sides of the river! Explore the riverside trail without leaving the comfort and familiarity of the city – with tons of opportunities to stop and rest, catch lunch, or grab a drink on the way. The Arkansas River Trail incorporates other, smaller trails and runs right at 17 miles long with a low challenge level.

War Memorial Trail

For a nice, easy, in-town biking trail, check out War Memorial Park. In addition to the biking trail currently on offer at War Memorial, future development plans include expansion and renovation! Situated in one of Little Rock’s largest parks and right next door to the Little Rock Zoo, this short, easy ride is great for the whole family and can lead to a day full of adventure, play, and exploration. 

Rattlesnake Ridge Natural Area

For more of a challenge, check out Rattlesnake Ridge Natural Area. This out-in-the-woods experience offers familiar fare for mountain bike enthusiasts. You’ll find a fun, challenging trail with opportunities for more casual biking throughout the natural area. Located just west of Pinnacle Mountain, Rattlesnake Ridge is a convenient starting or stopping place for a day out in the Natural State!

Burns Park Trail System

Just across the river in North Little Rock, you’ll find one of the largest city parks in the nation – and miles of biking trails! The Burns Park Trail System connects trails throughout the park with the Arkansas River Trail and includes several distinct trails with differing challenge levels. Pack your bike and pick your poison; Burns Park offers enough trail mileage and other activities to fill your whole day!

Other City Trail Systems

In addition to these, the City of Little Rock and surrounding area features other great riding trails! You can find more information and trail maps by visiting the city’s landing page for mountain biking or the parks and recreation department’s website including satellite-image maps of each trail. Here are some other great trail systems to explore:

• Allsopp Park Trail System
• Boyle Park Trail System
• Camp Robinson Trail System
• Pinnacle Mountain Monument Trails
• River Mountain Park Trail System
• Two Rivers Park Trail System
• Kanis Park Trail System
• Knoop Park Trail System
• Rock Creek Trail System
• Section 13 Trail System
• Southwest Trail System

Just Down the Road: Hot Springs and NWA

Not far from Little Rock, you’ll find even more cycling options! Just an hour down the highway, Hot Springs National Park’s Northwood Trails and other trail systems can make for an excellent day trip. And only a few hours’ drive to northwest Arkansas yields dozens more trails. Whether you head north or south from Little Rock, you’ll find the cycling community exploding across the state!

Finding Home in the Natural State

Whether you’re visiting for work or play – or are deciding on a move to Arkansas – you’ll find tons to do around Little Rock. When you need help finding your next adventure or your next place to stay, call on us at Arkansas Suites for great recommendations! Next time you’re planning a visit to Arkansas, experience the award-winning hospitality and expertise of the team that helps working professionals and thrill-seekers alike find home in the Natural State.