Located in the heart of the southern Ozarks in northwest Arkansas, Bentonville has become an unexpected but undeniable hotspot for mountain biking enthusiasts from around the globe. In 2020, this charming town took on the title of “Mountain Biking Capital of the World” — a self-made moniker that has stuck, and for good reason.
Welcome to the blog, my friend! If we haven’t met yet, my name’s Anthony Mosley, and I’m a real estate broker here in Bentonville, Arkansas. Today, I’m diving into why Bentonville earned this unique title and what makes it such an exciting place for anyone passionate about mountain biking.
Bentonville’s Rise as a Mountain Biking Mecca
You might not immediately think of Bentonville, Arkansas, when you think of mountains. In fact, the Ozarks aren’t exactly the towering peaks of the Andes or the Alps. But what Bentonville lacks in altitude, it more than makes up for in innovative urban mountain biking. Bentonville has created a system of trails that are seamlessly integrated into the city, making it easier than ever to grab a bite to eat and hop back onto the trails — something I’ve never seen anywhere else.
I’ll admit, when I first moved to Bentonville in 2006, it wasn’t known for its mountain biking scene. But after a brief move to Minnesota, my wife and I returned to find something completely different: a community buzzing with riders zooming by on carbon fiber mountain bikes with full suspension and disc brakes. These days, Bentonville is home to a vibrant, fast-growing biking culture that’s attracting riders from all over the world.
The Trail System That Brought the World to Bentonville
In 2022, the U.S. Mountain Biking Team set up its headquarters right here in Bentonville — a testament to the high quality and accessibility of the trails. Bentonville has a variety of trails to suit everyone from beginners to professionals, with the best part being the opportunity for “bike-in, bike-out” real estate. Many homes are just a stone’s throw away from some of the best mountain biking trails in the world. Whether you’re near the famed Handcut Hollow, Slaughter Pen, or Coler Mountain Bike Preserve, you can easily hop on your bike and ride straight from your doorstep.
And the options don’t stop at Bentonville. Within an hour’s drive, you can explore even more trails across the region, from the Back 40 Trails in Bella Vista to the stunning single-track trails around Lake Leatherwood in Eureka Springs. For those seeking a more intense adventure, the Buffalo Outdoor Center offers downhill trails with a chairlift-assisted ride to the top — a fun (and sometimes necessary) alternative to the traditional uphill grind.
Bentonville: More Than Just Trails
What truly sets Bentonville apart from other mountain biking destinations is the way it blends the sport with local culture. After a day of hitting the trails, riders can cruise through downtown Bentonville and enjoy world-class museums like Crystal Bridges. You’ll also find bike shops, experience centers from top brands like YT and Specialized, and even the world’s first bikable building, Ledger, located just a block from Bentonville Square. Where else can you enjoy brisket nachos and then hit the trails right behind the restaurant?
Bentonville has invested heavily in developing and maintaining its trails. Organizations like the Northwest Arkansas Trailblazers, alongside countless volunteers, ensure that the trails stay in excellent condition year-round. While other parts of the country may have trail closures due to weather, you can count on riding here almost any time of year.
Events and Community
Bentonville also hosts several major biking events each year, including the Bentonville Bike Fest, the Big Sugar Classic, and the Noon2Moon race at Coler Mountain Bike Preserve. These events attract mountain bikers from all over the country, helping to foster a sense of community and competition.
And don’t forget the upcoming addition of a chairlift for mountain bikers. In the near future, you’ll be able to ride up the Razorback Greenway and catch a lift to the top of the hill, then enjoy gravity-powered descents all the way down. It’s a major upgrade for the area, offering both convenience and an extra dose of fun.
The Walton Foundation’s Impact on Bentonville
You may have heard that Walmart played a role in developing Bentonville’s biking scene, and you’re right — but not in the way you might think. While Walmart’s parent company has contributed tens of millions of dollars through the Walton Family Foundation, it hasn’t been about just donating money to build trails. The foundation’s investment has helped create a professionally designed trail network, making Bentonville one of the most highly regarded biking destinations in the world.
Why Bentonville is the Mountain Biking Capital of the World
While some might debate whether Bentonville truly deserves the title of “Mountain Biking Capital of the World,” it’s hard to argue with the evidence. From world-class trails and a thriving biking culture to bike-in, bike-out living and year-round riding, Bentonville is truly special. The integration of biking into daily life is something I’ve never seen anywhere else.
If you’ve been thinking about moving to Bentonville, whether for the trails, the lifestyle, or something else, feel free to reach out. As a local real estate broker, I can help you find the perfect spot close to the action.
Thanks for reading, and if you ever visit, let me know! I’d love to hit the trails with you.
📞 Let’s Connect
Let’s talk about your goals, budget, and timeline so we can make your move a smooth and successful one. Whether you’re headed to Bentonville, Rogers, Springdale, or anywhere in Northwest Arkansas, I’m here to help.
Have questions or thinking about making a move to Bentonville or Northwest Arkansas?
Reach out anytime—or watch the full video for visuals and charts on my YouTube Channel.
— Anthony Mosley, Real Estate Broker, Bentonville, Arkansas