Friday, March 14, 2008

Lake Fayetteville (AR) Mountain Biking Trail

Lake Fayetteville is comprised of 458 acres of land and 194 acres of water. In 1948 bonds were issued to construct Lake Fayetteville with the lake being completed in 1949 and named Lake Fayetteville in 1950. A new paved trail traverses about half the distance as of early 2008, with extensions planned to encircle it completely. The lake can be seen several times as you bike, mostly when on the south edge of the lake (as in the photo below).



There is a variety of flora and fauna in natural settings as well as beautiful views of the lake. The park has benches, playgrounds, picnic areas, restrooms, informational kiosks, boat launch and marina, baseball fields, nature trail, the North Shore Disc Golf Course, and the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks, which is alongside the trail's east end on Crossover Road.



From the marina parking lot going clockwise, you first ride the short entrance road. When you reach the start of the paved trail, you'll notice a single track following the park's perimeter. If you take the paved trail, it will end about 2 miles up and then the single track continues. The south section of the trail is the most interesting and challenging. Three or four fingers of the lake extend into hollows and the trail drops down into each, skirts, the water, and then re-climbs the hillside.



Most circle the loop clockwise, but don't hesitate to go the other way -- it makes it an entirely new trail, with downs becoming ups and left turns becoming right turns. The uphills are short but will keep you honest if they catch you in the wrong gear. Loose rocks and numerous tree roots abound, especially on the north side. The trail is popular with hikers and even dog walkers, so mid-day is a good time for some solitude.



There are no water crossings. Two bridges built by Boy Scouts carry riders across water on the north side. Several areas will be muddy following wet weather.

More photos and info

and here


Lake Fayetteville trail map available here

Parking for this trail is located at 1350 E. Zion Rd and 1208 E. Lake Fayetteville Rd.

1 comment:

Kirstz @ mountain biking philippines said...

It was my honor to drop by here and get some information about mountain biking. Your adventure is really great and I want to try that also very exciting it is also very inspiring. Thanks for sharing this wonderful experienced of yours.