Advanced

Beginning from the Lake Wedington Recreation Area just west of Fayetteville, this 22-mile Advanced mountain bike route features the Twin Knobs trail and a rugged out and back that traverses the distinctive Twin Mountains formation.

From the trailhead and public parking, the route heads north along the Twisted Pines trail and onto portions of the Western Don Loop – a 7-mile intermediate loop accessible from the parking lot. From the northwest corner of the loop, the Twin Knobs trail continues north through the hills and valleys of the Ozark National Forest. With over 600 feet of elevation gain and almost 8-miles of technical singletrack in either direction, the Twin Knobs trail increases in difficulty as you approach the routes distinguishing “knobs” – with both the Upper and Lower Knob offering beautiful views of the surrounding Ozarks and Illinois River Valley.

After looping the Lower Knob at the route’s northern most point, the route heads back south along the Twin Knobs trail, reconnecting with the Western Don Loop – about 18 miles into the ride. The route continues to follow the Western Don Loop in a clockwise direction, finishing with long sections of fast rolling singletrack trails that twist through hardwood timber forests common in the Ozarks.

With consistent climbing and rocky terrain, our ‘Two’s Company’ route is best suited for mountain bikers seeking an intermediate to advanced experience (Blue/Black). With a majority of the facilities including restrooms and running water currently unavailable at the Lake Wedington Recreation Area, cyclists should plan to self-support - carrying with them the nutrition and hydration necessary to complete the experience.

Where to Park

Located just 13 miles west of Fayetteville, the Lake Wedington Recreation Area offers a paved trailhead for hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers just north of State Hwy 16. While a majority of Lake Wedington’s facilities have remained closed since the onset of the pandemic, the 102-acre lake and picnic areas are open for day-use and the area continues to be a popular destination for flatwater kayaks, stand up paddle boards, and shoreline fishing.