Mena, Arkansas, to Unveil New Lift-Serviced Mountain Biking Trails

Arkansas is poised to become a premier destination for downhill mountain biking enthusiasts with the ongoing construction of a new lift-accessed trail system in Mena. This ambitious project in the Ouachita National Forest will introduce nearly 20 miles of gravity-focused trails, catering to a wide range of riders from novices to experts. The development promises an exhilarating experience with substantial elevation drops, further cementing Arkansas's reputation as a growing hub for outdoor adventure sports.

The “Trails at Mena” initiative has been in the works for several years, with initial plans envisioning multiple chairlifts and an extensive network of over 100 miles of singletrack, including backcountry loops and connections to downtown Mena. While the full scope has been refined, the current focus is on the Ward Lake Zone, where a high-speed detachable quad lift is being installed. This lift will transport riders from Ward Lake to Round Top Mountain, offering approximately 1,100 feet of vertical descent, a significant increase compared to other regional bike parks.

The construction of the chairlift's foundations began in early October, with a recent Instagram video showcasing helicopters airlifting the massive components into place. Shae Lewis, Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism, confirmed the Ward Lake Zone as the initial development area. Lewis also indicated that future phases, including additional lifts, will be contingent on the usage and capital funding for this inaugural phase, suggesting a demand-driven expansion model for the park.

Beyond the lift, the Ward Lake Zone will feature approximately 19 miles of downhill trails designed to accommodate various skill levels. Riders can anticipate a diverse terrain, from expert-level black diamond jump lines and technically demanding steep sections to intermediate flow trails and accessible green routes for beginners. The project's trail building is being overseen by Gravity Logic, the renowned team responsible for the acclaimed Whistler Bike Park and the OZ Trails Bike Park, ensuring high-quality and exciting routes.

Although the construction is well underway, eager riders will need to exercise patience. The bike park at Mena is slated for completion and opening in the spring of 2028. This new facility is expected to transform Mena into a significant downhill biking destination, rivaling the elevation and trail distances typically found in Western states. Furthermore, Mena's climate offers the potential for year-round operation, providing a unique advantage over many bike parks that close during winter months.

The new lift-served mountain biking park in Mena, Arkansas, marks a significant milestone in the region's outdoor recreation landscape. With its substantial elevation drop, diverse trail offerings, and experienced trail builders, the park is set to attract mountain biking enthusiasts from across the country. The phased development approach, starting with the Ward Lake Zone, demonstrates a strategic plan for growth based on rider demand and resource allocation, promising an exciting future for downhill biking in the Natural State.