Just south of Fayetteville and nestled in the Ozark Mountains, West Fork, Arkansas is a popular hub for gravel group rides. Starting from the banks of the West Fork of the White River, our ‘Where the Best Begins’ is a figure eight shaped route featuring mostly gravel roads (65%) with challenging climbs that lead to rewarding Ozark Mountain scenery.
The route begins with a mixed-surface 2.4-mile climb up Bloyd Mountain. A rolling ridgeline of gravel leads past Mineral Springs - one of many historical townships found along the route. Originally built in 1915, the Mineral Springs Community Building served the local community as a school, town meeting hall, and church and is a surviving example of the one-room schoolhouses once common across the county. The building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1998.
Consistent climbing marks the next few miles, occasionally giving way to lengthy descents before pointing back up again. Following the routes steepest climb – a 0.9 mile punch with 428 feet of elevation gain – cyclists are rewarded with a 10-mile stretch that descends to the Middle Fork of the White River.
A 4.4-mile gravel climb up Parker Branch Road leads to more scenic views of the Ozarks– and a stair step descent over the top of Sugar Mountain. The route finishes along a scenic section of blacktop that snakes alongside the river as it leads you back to town.
With limited resources available, riders should plan to self-support on our 40+ mile ‘Where the Best Begins’ route - carrying with them the necessary nutrition and hydration to complete the experience. With steady climbing and over 3100 feet of elevation gained, the Challenging rated route is best suited for the avid gravel cyclist ready for the adventure.
Where to Park
Alongside the White River is West Fork’s Riverside Park, a popular spot for recreational activities and ample public parking. The park features prominent natural bluff features and is a well-known swimming and fishing hole – perfect for a post ride plunge on any hot summer day.
