The best part of Bentonville's cooler seasons is that the weather is mild enough to allow you to enjoy the outdoors year-round, and our city’s trail system has something for everyone. We have miles upon miles of soft surface trails for single-track adventurers, but have you had the opportunity to take advantage of our many paved or boardwalk trails during your visit? These scenic paths provide an inclusive way to experience the city, designed to be fully accessible for wheelchairs and mobility devices. Plus, they're conveniently situated close to numerous restaurants and bars for easy access to dining and refreshments along the way.
Mileage: 1 mile
Elevation: 16 feet
Route Type: Loop
Surface: Paved
Explore the Citizens Park Trail and enjoy a family outing at Bentonville Citizens Park, a paved one-mile loop that winds around the Bentonville Community Center. It's a welcoming spot for everyone, whether you’re pushing a stroller, enjoying a jog, or simply taking a leisurely walk. The trail has minimal elevation, making it easy for all ages and abilities.
Let the kids burn some energy halfway through the loop at the inclusive playground designed for children of all abilities. Wheelchair-friendly surfaces and play equipment ensure everyone can join the fun. Sensory-friendly features and even a cozy "chill-out chair" are available for kids who might need a quiet break.
When you're ready for a snack, the trail leads you just a quick stroll (0.2 miles from the community center) to The Big Lieutenant, where kids can dig into a grilled cheese, and adults can savor a variety of sandwiches. Social Project Brewing Co. is just as close for an adult-only outing, offering locally crafted drinks and a great atmosphere to unwind after the loop.
Explore more playgrounds:
As the weather starts to warm up, it’s time to get outside and explore! We have created a playground guide to help your family navigate fun in the sun…
Mileage: 2 miles
Elevation: 32 feet
Route Type: Out and Back
Surface: Paved
Before heading to this trail, swing by Pop Up Drink Thru for a refreshing artisan drink to compliment your walk.
Creekside Park is one of many examples of how smart design can turn challenges into opportunities, such as using areas that flood naturally as part of the park's features. Instead of avoiding flood-prone areas, the designers of this park built special paths and surfaces that can handle water while still being great for recreation, connecting the park to nearby trails and neighborhoods. The park offers unique features like the region's first official cricket field, while also using clever engineering to collect rainwater in a series of pools and special pavement that helps prevent flooding in other parts of the city.
Start your journey at the SW Bright Road parking lot, and you’ll find all the essentials: a bike repair stand to tighten up your toddler’s Strider, a water fill-up station, and plenty of space to stretch before setting off. Heading west, this 2-mile out-and-back trail closely follows the serene Little Osage Creek, where you might spot waterfowl or even a playful beaver along the way. After a peaceful walk, Las Fajitas #2 awaits nearby with burritos as big as any beaver you may have seen.
Mileage: .7 miles
Elevation: 9 feet
Route Type: Loop
Surface: Boardwalk and Paved
The beautiful Osage Park has plenty of trails that twist throughout the 12-acre wetland ecosystem. With so much undisturbed nature, we’re focusing on a loop that makes the perfect destination for the traveling birder! So, grab your binoculars, start at the main parking lot by the pickleball courts, and head east to begin your adventure on the floating boardwalks. Along the way, keep an eye out for Great Blue Herons, Belted Kingfishers, and maybe even a Red-shouldered Hawk.
Take a quick pitstop at the park's North end to enjoy a beverage at Bentonville Brewing Company. Don’t worry about the little ones; this brewery is kid-friendly, with strider bikes to race on in their contained track and a kids' corner filled with games and activities to keep them occupied. For those looking for a non-alcoholic refreshment, they’ve got a tasty selection of zero-proof beers, too!
Once you’re back on the boardwalk, see if you can spot one of the park’s beavers in action. Ready to wrap up? Head back to the parking lot for a snack at one of the many food trucks or stroll over to Louise at Thaden Field, where you can watch planes take off and land as you enjoy a great meal.
Mileage: 1.5 miles
Elevation: 75 feet
Route Type: Out & Back
Surface: Paved
This trail is a must-visit for outdoor and art enthusiasts alike. Begin at the newly completed Crystal Bridges Parking Garage—a space designed for more than just parking. The building features an overlook with stunning views of the North Forest, nature viewing stations with color-correcting lenses for colorblind visitors, and the Plaza Café, a juice bar offering delicious handcrafted drinks and ready-made meals.
There's also a little kids' play area with interactive building toys, the perfect distraction while you lace up shoes and make sure those little jackets don’t wander away! A 24/7 access restroom is located in the garage, with two large, accessible gender-neutral bathrooms. Head North on this trail to stroll amongst larger-than-life artworks, including a massive deer sculpture that makes you feel like you’re in a fairy tale!
You may find an exclusive exhibit at night, as it’s a popular destination for the museum's art. Keep an eye on this events page to check for those activations! Head inside the museum to grab a meal and a beverage at Eleven.
Memorial Park Fitness Trail & John DeSheilds Trail Loop
Mileage: 1 miles
Elevation: 34 feet
Route Type: Loop
Surface: Paved
Memorial Park welcomes groups of all sizes due to its ample parking and central location, perfect for family outings, gatherings with friends, and even the family dog (there’s a dog park where your pup can get some time off leash). Start your visit by stopping at Red Kite Coffee Company nearby for a warm drink and a tasty macaron to fuel your walk. This one-mile loop trail makes for an easy stroll through the park’s wide paved paths. Along the way, you’ll pass tennis courts, soccer fields, and a playground. Bring a ball or racket to make the most of the courts—there’s something here for everyone to enjoy. After your walk, treat yourself to some hearty brisket or BBQ at Smokin’ Joe’s Ribhouse, the perfect way to round out a day at the park.
We love that Bentonville prioritizes its city parks and walking paths, and we hope you do, too! It’s more than a walk—it’s a day that’s accessible, fun, and full of local flavor. If you need additional help planning your visit, check out our seasonal guides to Bentonville. You can also call or stop by our Visitor’s Center for tips and brochures when you get to town. We’re happy to help you!
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