The Arkansas High Country Race is Coming to Bentonville in 2026 & 2027!
Every October, riders gather at the starting line of the Arkansas High Country Race. This isn’t just a bike race; it’s a solo, self-supported ultra-cycling challenge that pushes athletes to their limits. With three routes to choose from—ranging from a demanding 250 miles to a 1,000-mile course—every mile tells a story of perseverance.
In 2026, new challengers will roll up to the line, ready to chase glory. But in a race where even the strongest riders often scratch, one truth remains: anything can happen. Who will conquer the course, and who will be conquered by it? The adventure awaits.
The Route
Developed by Adventure Cycling Association and route designer Chuck Campbell, who famously said,
“That route don’t go no where — It just runs around everywhere!”
The terrain is unforgiving. Rugged backroads twist through loose gravel climbs and plunge into steep, lightning-fast pavement descents, cutting across the wild beauty of Northwest Arkansas.
To understand Chuck Campbell's vision, read What’s So Special About the Arkansas High Country Route?
Start your adventure here in Bentonville
Bentonville is an awesome home base for both racers and their families, with tons to do and plenty of places to stay. You and your support team will be hard-pressed to be bored as you prepare for (and they wait) for the journey ahead!
Mountain Biking
Known as “the mountain biking capital of the world,” Bentonville has nearly 70 miles of trails connecting to the over 400 mile world-class Oz trail system spread throughout Northwest Arkansas…
