From the small town of Goshen, our 35-mile ‘Faith Healer’ route heads east into Madison County and through the farmlands that pepper the Ozark Mountain landscape just outside of Fayetteville. With close to 3000 feet of climbing, consistent elevation change is common throughout this Challenging route as the Boston Mountain Range of the Ozarks shapes the terrain. Hardwood forests still blanket two-thirds of Madison County and provide generous tree canopy on this largely gravel route.
The route begins with a mixed-surface climb up Fire Tower Road and to the top of Benson Mountain. A descent follows, before an extended section of gravel that meanders through the remnants of early settlements in the region. Climbing is a constant for the next few miles, with the route’s elevation topping out around Bohannan Mountain.
Heading back west, sections of scenic pavement point riders to rolling ridgelines of gravel roads overlooking the fields and farms below. The route finishes with an extended section of popular pavement that includes a climb up and over Round Mountain before dropping down to the White River. From here, the route follows State Highway 45 back to Goshen. While most will find the shoulder sufficient, cyclists will want to use caution when riding along this one-mile portion of the highway.
With steady climbing, our Challenging ‘Faith Healer’ route is best suited for the avid gravel cyclist. Riders should plan to self-support - carrying with them the necessary nutrition and hydration to complete the experience.
Where to Park
The Goshen Community Building is located at 244 Clarke Street and is a popular starting point for several cycling clubs in the region. Please be respectful of the property by parking in the gravel lot.
