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An out-and-back singletrack sample of the Ouachita National Recreation Trail - IMBA Epic.


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Map Key

22.5

Miles

36.2

KM

100%

Singletrack

2,448' 746 m

High

1,375' 419 m

Low

2,985' 910 m

Up

2,985' 910 m

Down

5%

Avg Grade (3°)

20%

Max Grade (11°)

Dogs Unknown

E-Bikes Unknown

Overview

This is a good place to start to experience the Ouachita National Recreation Trail - IMBA Epic. You can set this ride up for numerous configurations, such as an out-and-back, shuttle, or use Highway 71 and 270 to make a loop if you don't mind a little road riding. Expect some pretty good climbing right off the bat, some of which is sustained. This ride is not overly technical, but what you might expect in the Ouachita's with an occasional rock garden.

Need to Know

Best done in the spring, winter and fall. The undergrowth can sometimes be a little overgrown around the trail on the tops of the mountains during the summer months.

Description

We normally do this as an out-and-back starting at Highway 270 and turning around at Highway 71. From the Highway 270 trailhead, just head down the trail and cross the railroad tracks and continue to follow the trail. You'll begin to climb a little and then you'll descend down to county road 97.

After crossing the road, you'll begin the sustained climb up and over the mountains. Once at the top, the trees will open up a bit, this is the section that, if no trail maintenance has been done in awhile, the trail can be a bit harder to follow. Once on your way down, you'll get some great views of the Foran Gap area and Highway 71.

There is some climbing out there, so bring your climbing legs.

For more information go to Mountain Bike Arkansas - mtbark.com

Contacts

Shared By:

Kenny Davis

Trail Ratings

  2.3 from 4 votes

#4249

Overall
  2.3 from 4 votes
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Recommended Route Rankings

#58

in Arkansas

#4,249

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1,109 Since Mar 13, 2016
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Photos

Looking out at the Ouachita's.
Mar 13, 2016 near Mena, AR
Morning sunshine greets the early risers on trail.
Apr 8, 2019 near Mena, AR
This boulder outcrop offers a peek at Rich Mountain.
Apr 8, 2019 near Mena, AR
Certain spots on the trail provide a beautiful view of Acorn, home of the Tigers.
Apr 8, 2019 near Mena, AR
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Weather


Current Trail Conditions

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Check-Ins

May 23, 2021
Willy Gray
Some very difficult sections mixed into hard and intermediate stuff. Truly epic. 16mi — 3h 00m
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