Looking for the best bike trails in Fort Smith or a destination where high mobility and bike-friendly paths make exploring a breeze? Whether visiting for the weekend, riding between business meetings, or simply wanting to discover the city's scenic routes, Fort Smith, Arkansas, is quickly becoming a must-ride destination. 

 

From riverfront paths to rugged mountain biking trails, Fort Smith combines Southern hospitality with trails that suit every type of cyclist. With interconnected hotels, vacation rentals and trails, Fort Smith offers the perfect ride-in, ride-out lifestyle. 

 

Grab your bike (or rent one locally), and let's explore why Fort Smith should be your next cycling adventure.

 

 

Why is Fort Smith a Great Place to Ride Bikes?

Ben Geren Bike Trail Sign

Fort Smith combines natural beauty, rich history and modern convenience. Cyclists can enjoy:

 

  • Diverse terrain includes smooth urban trails, challenging mountain biking routes and everything in between.

  • Scenic routes, historic districts, and wooded parks along the Arkansas River.

  • Accessibility: many trails connect directly to hotels, business districts and key attractions.

  • All skill levels are welcome: families, casual riders, commuters, and serious cyclists all have options.

  • Ease of access; we are just a short drive from any travel along I-40 and by staying here, you gain access to trail paths throughout Western Arkansas. Head north or south for a day, and stay here to ride on your other days. 

 

For visitors here on business or working remotely, the city's layout provides an easy ride before your first video call or a relaxing riverfront cruise to unwind after meetings.

 

 

Fort Smith's Commitment to Improving Mobility

 

Enhancing bike mobility from north to south is a priority for Fort Smith leaders, making it easier to navigate the city on two wheels. Through targeted grant funding, careful budget planning, and the leadership of a dedicated Mobility Director, Fort Smith continues to invest in becoming a more walkable and bike-friendly city for both residents and visitors.

Downtown Fort Smith connects seamlessly along the riverfront trail, allowing guests at the Fort Smith Riverfront RV Park to bike directly into downtown for lunch, shopping, and sightseeing. The same opportunity is available to guests staying in vacation rental properties in the historic Belle Grove District and downtown neighborhoods.

Visitors are encouraged to enjoy the 12-mile trail along the Arkansas River, where natural scenery, wildlife, historic sites, and public art come together for a memorable ride or hike. Additional bikeways and neighborhood connections make it easy to branch off from key wayfinding points and explore more of the city at your own pace.

Beyond downtown, the historic Fort Chaffee offers opportunities for mountain biking and road cycling, with routes suitable for different skill levels and travel preferences.

Fort Smith’s ongoing commitment to mobility emphasizes walkable districts and expanded bike lanes, shaping a city where different transportation methods reach the same destinations. These upgrades offer residents and visitors more options for getting around and make cycling not just a leisure activity but a practical and enjoyable way to experience Fort Smith.

 

 

Bike Paths in Fort Smith

Fort Smith Bikeway

Road bikers bike past a colorful mural painted on a brick building in Fort Smith.

The Fort Smith Bikeway showcases the city's commitment to fostering a safe, bike-friendly urban environment. This network of designated bike routes and shared-use paths connects many of the city's major points of interest, including parks, schools, libraries, shopping areas and public transit stops.

 

  • Description: A network that connects parks, libraries, schools and transit stops, facilitating safe urban cycling.

  • Ideal for commuters and recreational riders seeking a city biking experience with reduced traffic congestion and promoting healthy, eco-friendly transportation options.

  • Experience: Clear signage, crosswalks, and bike racks along the route make it easier and safer for riders to navigate the city.

 

Rules, Regulations, and Information about sharing the road and navigating Fort Smith on a bike.

 
Ben Geren Regional Park & Trail System

A wooden trailhead with a bench displays a map of the multi-use trails at Ben Geren Park on a cloudy day.

One of the region's most popular destinations for cyclists of all levels, Ben Geren Regional Park offers over 14 miles of purpose-built mountain biking trails. Riders will find a great mix of terrains—from smooth beginner loops to intermediate trails featuring natural obstacles and fast descents. Notable trails include "Roller Coaster," "Zippidee Doo Dah," and "Elvis," each providing unique features for riders who enjoy flowy sections, quick climbs and varied surfaces.

 

For road and leisure cyclists, the park features a paved 1.9-mile trail that connects to the Janet Huckabee Nature Center, offering a scenic, low-stress ride ideal for families and casual riders. It is an excellent base for a full day outdoors with ample parking, restroom facilities, and nearby playgrounds and golf.

 

  • Trail Options: Over 14 miles of rugged mountain biking trails featuring popular routes such as "Roller Coaster," "Zippidee Doo Dah," and "Elvis."

  • Paved Trails: Features a 1.9-mile paved path connecting to the Janet Huckabee Nature Center.

  • Skill Level: Trails range from easy to intermediate, accommodating various biking abilities.

 

Learn more about the Ben Geren Trails and e-bike system.

 
Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center Trails

A small wooden trailhead at the Janet Huckabee Nature Center reads "Field & Forest Trail".

The Janet Huckabee Nature Center combines outdoor recreation with education and wildlife viewing. The trail system here features over 3 miles of well-maintained, mostly beginner-friendly paths that meander through a stunning hickory and oak forest. Two trails are ADA-accessible, ensuring a welcoming option for all mobility levels.

 

The routes offer gentle elevation changes for cyclists, hard-packed surfaces and tranquil surroundings that often showcase views of native birds, deer, and the occasional armadillo. Riders can also enjoy Wells Lake, where fishing and kayaking are available for those wanting to combine biking with other outdoor activities.

 

  • Trail Length: Features more than 4 miles of trails, including ADA-accessible ones.

  • Terrain: Scenic routes that wind through hickory and oak forests, making them perfect for leisurely biking and wildlife observation.

  • Additional Activities: Fishing at Wells Lake and attending educational exhibits at the Nature Center.

 

Learn more about the Huckabee River Valley Nature Center Trails.

 
Greg Smith River Trail

A man walks with his dog on Greg Smith River Trail in Fort Smith.

A true gem for leisure cyclists and commuters alike, the Greg Smith River Trail runs along the banks of the Arkansas River, offering panoramic views, wide paved paths, and easy connections to downtown Fort Smith, including the Riverfront Bike and Skate Park. This trail is flat and accessible, making it ideal for families with young riders or those who prefer a relaxed ride without steep grades.

 

Riverside Rides, a popular local rental shop, is conveniently located near the trailhead, allowing visitors to hop on a bike and start exploring easily. With benches, river overlooks, and occasional art installations along the route, the River Trail provides a visually rich and peaceful riding experience.

 

  • Trail Length: Approximately 6.3 miles of paved, multi-use trail along the Arkansas River.

  • Scenery: Offers breathtaking views of the river, downtown skyline and bridges, with shaded areas and occasional benches for resting.

  • Accessibility: Completely paved and mostly flat, making it ideal for beginners, families and casual riders.

  • Connection: Links key areas, including Riverfront Park, downtown Fort Smith, and the Fort Smith National Historic Site, offer recreational opportunities and a scenic route through the city's heart.

 
Springhill Park Mountain Bike Trails

A trailhead marks the B-Side entrance of a mountain bike trail at Springhill Park.

Nestled at the wooded edge of Barling, just east of Fort Smith, the Springhill Park Mountain Bike Trail offers a serene and fulfilling ride for cyclists seeking a touch of adventure near town. The 10-mile route meanders through a natural forest, crossing creeks and featuring gentle elevation changes with a mix of packed dirt, rocks and roots. Well-marked and moderately technical, it is an excellent choice for intermediate riders or beginners eager to push their comfort zones.

 

  • Trail Length: A 10-mile route loop trail near Barling, Arkansas, just east of Fort Smith.

  • Terrain: Winding single track through wooded areas featuring moderate elevation changes, small creek crossings, and natural obstacles such as roots and rocks.

  • Skill Level: Ideal for intermediate riders seeking a flowing trail with some technical challenges; also favored by trail runners and hikers.

  • Experience: Quiet and lightly trafficked, the trail provides a peaceful ride through nature, offering glimpses of wildlife and seasonal wildflowers. It's an excellent nearby option for those seeking to escape the city without venturing too far.

 

Learn more about the Spring Hill Bike Trails.

 
Chaffee Crossing Trails

A wide shot of a winding paved trail in Chaffee Crossing on a cloudy day.

The Chaffee Crossing Trails are among the region's most extensive multi-use trail systems, offering nearly 40 miles of paved and natural surface paths. These trails connect residential neighborhoods, commercial areas, parks and museums, including the historic Fort Chaffee Barracks, where Elvis Presley entered the military.

 

  • Trail Length: Nearly 40 miles of multi-use trails that weave through residential areas, parks and museums.

  • Terrain: variety - scenic wooded areas, open meadows, and paved sections that accommodate everything from casual rides to intense training sessions.

  • Features: Paved paths ideal for biking, walking and running, offering scenic views and historical landmarks.

 

Learn more about the Chaffee Crossing Trails. 

 
Boston Mountain Trail at Lake Fort Smith State Park | Bonus trail

A large metal trailhead marks the beginning of the Boston Mountain Trail at Lake Fort Smith.

For those craving a more challenging ride, the Boston Mountain Trail at Lake Fort Smith State Park is about 30 minutes from downtown. This 12.4-mile out-and-back route offers a moderate to strenuous experience, featuring technical sections, rocky climbs and sweeping mountain views.

 

  • Trail Highlight: The Boston Mountain Trail is a 12.4-mile route rated moderate to strenuous, offering mountainous terrain and scenic vistas.

  • Environment: The surrounding park offers campsites, cabins, and lake access for those wishing to turn their ride into a weekend getaway.

  • Skill Level: This 12.4-mile trail is considered a moderate to strenuous ride.

 

More information about the Boston Mountain Trail at Lake Fort Smith State Park.

 

 

Bike Events in Fort Smith

Annual Highlights

  • True Grit Ride | June
    Multiple cycling distances and a 5K, benefiting the Meals for Kids Backpack Program.

  • River Valley Rumble | June
    Local competitive racers take the Ben Geren Trails
     

 

Bike Rental and Repair Spots in Fort Smith

Rentals & Bike Shares

  • Riverside Rides – Hourly rentals for mountain bikes and helmets, right by the River Trail.

Bike Shops & Repairs
 
Additional Resources

 

Discover Your Next Ride in Fort Smith 

Whether you're a lifelong cyclist, a weekend trail explorer, or a family seeking an outdoor adventure, Fort Smith offers trails, events and bike-friendly services that make your ride unforgettable.

 

Come for the ride. Stay for the history, the views and the laid-back charm that makes Fort Smith more than just a stop; it's a destination.

 

See you on the trails!