When I first arrived in Bentonville, Arkansas, I didn’t expect to find a cycling paradise. But after a few days of exploring, it became clear why this city has become a dream destination for riders from around the world.
From Quiet Town to Cycling Hotspot
Bentonville was once a small farming town, tucked away in the hills of Northwest Arkansas. Today, it has transformed into a modern and vibrant city, especially loved by cyclists. This massive shift started in 2007 when Tom and Steuart Walton — enthusiastic mountain bikers — launched a mission to build world-class trails across their hometown.
If you’re a fan of exploring new MTB destinations, you’ll also enjoy our MTB guides and XC MTB tips.
A City Designed Around Bicycles
What impressed me most is how deeply Bentonville has integrated cycling into everyday life:
✔ Respectful Drivers
In many cities, sharing the road can be stressful — but in Bentonville, drivers patiently give cyclists space, making road riding surprisingly comfortable.
Check out more cycling safety tips to stay protected on the road.
✔ Ride-Up Cafés & Bike-Friendly Hotels
You’ll find cafés with bike-through windows, hotels offering free bike valet, washing stations, and storage areas.
✔ The Famous “Ledger” Building
Imagine a six-story building where you can ride your bike from the street up to the top floor on an external spiral ramp — that’s The Ledger, and it’s unlike anything I’ve seen.
A Growing Cycling Economy
Cycling isn’t just a hobby here — it’s a booming industry.
- Bentonville hosts major mountain bike and gravel racing events.
- Brands like Rapha, Vittoria, and Allied Cycle Works have set up operations here.
- USA Cycling has even moved part of their off-road programs to Arkansas.
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Food, Culture, and Contrasts
Bentonville blends small-town charm with big-city energy. You’ll find everything from BBQ and tacos to upscale restaurants. But the city also feels unusually “polished,” shaped heavily by the Walton family’s investments. Some longtime residents have mixed feelings about how fast everything is changing.
Trails for Every Rider
No matter your skill level, Bentonville has a trail for you:
- Family-friendly paved routes
- Technical MTB trails
- Flow trails and jump lines
- Endless gravel miles
- Even mini-parks for kids learning to ride
Is Bentonville America’s Cycling Capital?
Some say cities like Boulder or Portland still hold the crown — but Bentonville is catching up fast. With fewer than 65,000 residents, it feels open, clean, and welcoming. And with new buildings, restaurants, and bike-focused projects launching every year, the growth hasn’t slowed down.
For riders looking for a new adventure — or even a new hometown — Bentonville just might be the next big thing
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