Northwoods Phase I East

Flowy singletrack through dense pine forests.

Mountain Biking Easy

Distance: 8.8 km
Ascent: 145 m
Descent: 145 m
Duration: 0-1 hrs

Low Point: 186 m
High Point: 239 m
Gradient: 2˚

As if having three Epic IMBA trails within a 30-mile radius wasn’t already motivation enough for mountain bikers to plan a basecamp in the area, Central Arkansas is upping the enticement with development of the new Northwoods Trail system in the city of Hot Springs. At the time of this writing, May 2019, the 14 miles of Phase I has been completed. Also, by riding a short singletrack connector trail to nearby Cedar Glades, you can add another 10 miles to the pool of mountain bike trails available to ride right now. When Phases II and III completed, this 2,000-acre park will total 54 connected miles of singletrack. If Phases II and III match the high bar set by Phase I, no matter where you live, if you ride a mountain bike, Northwoods Trails needs to be on your to-do list.

Description

In the east section of the Northwoods trails, as you head out of the parking lot the route starts out on beginner trails with a wide singletrack corridor. These are perfect for getting your legs warmed up.

Once you reach Cats Meow and Freeman trails, the tread narrows down to sweet singletrack as the trail weave in and around dense pine forests, dipping down and around the shallow hollows of the rolling hillsides.

The east trails aren’t as technical and don't have the steeper ascents that the west trails have, but they make for great, flowy mountain biking. These trails provide a more old school ride experience. Both beginner and experienced riders will enjoy the gentle flow of riding through this natural setting.

Difficulty

Easy

Mostly smooth and non-technical singletrack with unavoidable obstacles 2in/5cm tall or less. Avoidable obstacles may be present. Ideal for beginner riders.