Intermediate
The Fayetteville Traverse is one of Fayetteville’s most recognizable mountain bike routes—connecting vibrant city districts with rugged Ozark terrain through a continuous singletrack loop.
The route mixes city greenways with rugged Ozark singletrack; linking Downtown Fayetteville, the University of Arkansas, Kessler Mountain Regional Park, Centennial Park at Millsap Mountain, and Mount Sequoyah Woods and Markham Hill into one of the most unique trail experiences in the Ozarks.
The Fayetteville Traverse features nearly 18 miles of mountainous urban landscape with approximately 1,500 feet of elevation gain. Riders encounter a mix of technical hand-cut singletrack, mountain bike–optimized flow trails, paved multi-use paths, and short bike-friendly street connections. The route is considered primarily intermediate in difficulty, making it ideal for experienced recreational riders, trail runners, and hikers.
Downtown Fayetteville to Kessler Mountain
Most riders begin the Traverse in Downtown Fayetteville, where a short half-mile paved trail quickly transitions to dirt.
From there, riders follow a clockwise route through a mix of cross-country singletrack and paved greenway segments as the trail climbs toward Kessler Mountain.
At Kessler Mountain Regional Park, the landscape shifts to rugged Ozark forest. This 620-acre public park and nature preserve rises to roughly 1,856 feet above sea level and features nearly 20 miles of technical, rock-filled trails. The terrain here includes some of the longest descents in the Fayetteville trail system, making it a highlight of the Traverse for mountain bikers.
Crossing to Centennial Park at Millsap Mountain
After crossing Kessler Mountain, the route descends toward U.S. Highway 62, where riders use a pedestrian-activated crosswalk to safely continue the Traverse.
A short neighborhood connection leads to a climb up Millsap Mountain and into Centennial Park at Millsap Mountain.
Centennial Park is a 228-acre mountain bike destination park and was the host venue for the 2022 UCI Cyclo-cross World Championships. The park features:
- Purpose-built cyclo-cross racecourses
- Olympic-style cross-country mountain bike courses
- More than 11 miles of purpose-built mountain bike trails
One of the park’s most talked-about features is the Junk Drawer trail, which includes a gap jump over an antique pickup truck—a favorite for advanced riders and spectators.
The I-49 Cattle Tunnel and Markham Hill
Leaving Centennial Park, the Traverse continues under Interstate 49 through a 500-foot cattle tunnel originally built for livestock access.
The narrow tunnel—just wide enough for cyclists and pedestrians—creates one of the most unique trail connections in Northwest Arkansas, linking Millsap Mountain to Markham Hill Nature Area, a wooded ridgeline just west of the University of Arkansas campus.
Riding Through the University of Arkansas
From Markham Hill, the Traverse flows directly through the scenic campus of the University of Arkansas, covering portions of its 500-acre hilltop grounds.
Here, riders pass a mix of Ozark woodland trails, greenways, and bike-friendly campus paths alongside historic and architecturally significant buildings, including the Fowler House, the official residence of the university’s Chancellor.
A popular photo stop along this segment is the Wild Band of Razorbacks near Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. The 25-foot-tall fountain features six Razorback sculptures nearly seven feet tall and celebrates the spirit of Razorback athletics and campus tradition.
Post-Ride Food, Coffee, and Local Brews
Completing the Traverse brings riders back to Downtown Fayetteville, where there’s no shortage of places to refuel.
The city’s bike-friendly culture makes it easy to roll straight from the trail to local restaurants, breweries, and coffee shops. Many establishments offer bike racks and outdoor patios, making Downtown Fayetteville a favorite post-ride gathering spot for riders exploring the Northwest Arkansas trail system.
Fayetteville Traverse: FAQ
Where is the Fayetteville Traverse located?
Located in Fayetteville; Connects Downtown Fayetteville, area parks, and the University of Arkansas
How long is the Fayetteville Traverse?
Approximately 18 miles
How much elevation gain does the Fayetteville Traverse have?
About 1,500 feet of total elevation gain
What is the difficulty level of the Fayetteville Traverse?
Intermediate difficulty
What types of trails are included on the Fayetteville Traverse?
- Hand-cut singletrack
- Mountain bike–optimized flow trails
- Paved multi-use greenway paths
- Short bicycle-friendly street connectors
What activities is the Fayetteville Traverse best for?
- Mountain biking
- Trail running
- Hiking
