“Bicycle with the Governor” at Delta Heritage Trail State Park

Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson invites bike enthusiasts to join him and experience the beauty of the Delta Heritage Trail State Park near Helena-West Helena on Sunday, Oct. 11. The “Bicycle with the Governor” event is an opportunity to enjoy this Arkansas Delta park, as well as a fundraiser for the Boys and Girls Club of Phillips County.

The event begins at 1:30 p.m. at the Delta Heritage Trail State Park visitor center, located at 5539 US HWY 49 in Barton. Governor Hutchinson will ride a 5-mile loop along the trail, which is crushed, packed limestone, perfect for hybrid, cruiser or mountain bikes (narrow-tired road bikes are not recommended). The public is invited to ride the trail with the Governor. Bring your own bicycle and helmet. Water will be available. From the park visitor center, riders will head south on the trail through a canopy of native hardwoods and alongside farmlands, exit the trail to make a small loop on Ark. 85, go north towards Lick Creek trailhead, get back on the trail, and return to the visitor center.

The Delta Heritage Trail is a rail-to-trail conversion for hiking and biking being developed in phases along the former Union Pacific Railroad right-of-way from one mile south of Lexa to Rohwer, and extending via the Mississippi River levee to Arkansas City. Upon completion, the trail will total 84 miles in length. The first 21 miles of trail have been completed in the northern section from Helena junction to Elaine.

Leading through some of the most scenic areas of the region and crossing streams, the trail offers amazing opportunities for wildlife viewing and birdwatching. When completed, the trail will also offer views from bridges that span the Arkansas River and White River.

The “Bicycle with the Governor” event is free and open to the public. Donation opportunities for the Boys and Girls Club of Phillips County will be available on the day of the ride for those who choose to give to the organization.

For more information on “Bicycle with the Governor,” contact the Delta Heritage Trail State Park at 870-572-2352.