Trails in Bentonville, AR: A Comprehensive Guide
When it comes to outdoor activities, Bentonville, Arkansas, offers a plethora of trails that cater to hikers, runners, and cyclists of all levels. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, Bentonville has something for everyone. Let’s delve into the details of some of the most popular trails in Bentonville, AR.
1. Pinnacle Mountain State Park
Pinnacle Mountain State Park is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Located just 20 minutes from downtown Bentonville, this park offers stunning views, diverse wildlife, and a variety of trails. One of the most popular trails is the Pinnacle Trail, which leads to the summit of Pinnacle Mountain. The trail is 2.4 miles round trip and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Ozark Mountains. Another notable trail is the Pinnacle Bluffs Trail, which is a 1.5-mile loop that offers stunning views of the Arkansas River Valley.
2. Mount Magazine State Park
Mount Magazine State Park is the highest point in Arkansas and offers some of the most spectacular views in the state. The park features over 20 miles of trails, ranging from easy to challenging. The most popular trail is the Mount Magazine Trail, which is a 5.5-mile round trip hike that leads to the summit. The trail offers stunning views of the Ozark Mountains and the Ouachita National Forest. Another notable trail is the Lake Ouachita Trail, which is a 3.5-mile loop that offers a chance to see the beautiful Lake Ouachita.
3. Lake Bella Vista Trails
Lake Bella Vista is a 2,000-acre residential community located just west of Bentonville. The community offers over 50 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The trails are well-maintained and offer a variety of terrains, from flat and easy to steep and challenging. Some of the most popular trails include the Lake Bella Vista Loop, which is a 5.5-mile loop that offers stunning views of the lake, and the Lake Bella Vista Nature Trail, which is a 1.5-mile loop that offers a chance to see the diverse wildlife in the area.
4. Bentonville Botanical Garden Trails
The Bentonville Botanical Garden is a beautiful 44-acre garden that offers a variety of trails for visitors to explore. The trails are well-maintained and offer a chance to see a variety of plants and flowers. Some of the most popular trails include the Discovery Trail, which is a 1.5-mile loop that offers a chance to see the different plant collections in the garden, and the Serenity Trail, which is a 0.5-mile loop that offers a peaceful and serene experience.
5. The Trail of Tears National Historic Trail
The Trail of Tears National Historic Trail is a 2,200-mile trail that commemorates the forced relocation of Native Americans from the Southeastern United States to the Indian Territory (present-day Oklahoma) in the 1830s. The trail passes through Bentonville and offers a chance to learn about the history of the Native Americans and the hardships they faced during the Trail of Tears. The trail is open to hikers, bikers, and horseback riders, and offers a variety of terrains, from easy to challenging.
6. The Razorback Greenway
The Razorback Greenway is a 36-mile multi-use trail that runs through Fayetteville and Bentonville. The trail is open to hikers, runners, and cyclists and offers a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the Ozark Mountains. The trail is well-maintained and offers a variety of terrains, from flat and easy to steep and challenging. Some of the most popular sections of the trail include the Razorback Greenway to the University of Arkansas, which is a 5.5-mile round trip hike, and the Razorback Greenway to the Old Wire Road Trail, which is a 7.5-mile round trip hike.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual walker, Bentonville, AR, has trails that cater to your interests. From the stunning views of Pinnacle Mountain to the serene beauty of the Bentonville Botanical Garden, there’s something for everyone. So, lace up your hiking boots, grab your bike, or put on your running shoes and explore the trails of Bentonville, AR.
