FATMAP by Strava

Oz Castle Hub: Catapult

A high-speed jump line with some large table tops and incredible bridge features.

Mountain Biking Difficult

Distance
4.8 km
Ascent
58 m
Descent
58 m
Duration
0-1 hrs
Low Point
323 m
High Point
377 m
Gradient
Oz Castle Hub: Catapult Map

The Catapult Trail is one of the freshest jump lines in the rapidly-growing mountain bike destination of Bentonville.

Description

On this upper intermediate-level jump line, the builders specifically tried to build a big, fast jump line with long, tall berms and large tabletops, all on a wide-open trail. This trail character differs from some of the other jump lines at Slaughter Pen that try to pack as many features into as small of a space as possible. On the surface, the strategy of packing the jumps in seems logical when you don't have very much elevation to work with, but that can lead to a busy-feeling ride character when you're actually on the trail.

Catapult is the answer to the problem of overly-busy trails, with long, flowing berms, fantastic rollers, and large tabletop jumps that are so perfectly sculpted, they will have intermediate jumpers feel like rockstars as they launch some serious air.

While Catapult doesn't quite warrant a black diamond rating, it's still a substantial step up in size and speed from the Medieval jump line. In fact, Catapult goes over the top of Medieval in several spots, thanks to some massive wooden bridges that function as overpasses.

To get to the top of these trails, a well-built climbing trail has been added next to the road, which switchbacks continuously as it slowly ascends through the grassy meadow. This mellow climb makes it super easy to pedal lap after lap on this fantastic new mountain bike playground!

Difficulty

Difficult

Mostly stable trail tread with some variability featuring larger and more unavoidable obstacles that may include, but not be limited to: bigger stones, roots, steps, and narrow curves. Compared to lower intermediate, technical difficulty is more advanced and grades of slopes are steeper. Ideal for upper intermediate riders.

Medium Exposure

2 out of 4

The trail contains some obstacles such as outcroppings and rock which could cause injury.

Remoteness

1 out of 4

Close to help in case of emergency.

Best time to visit

all year round

Features

  • Flow
  • Singletrack
  • Jumps

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area