Stellar Cycling Events Coming Up in Arkansas

A great way to enjoy the scenery of Arkansas is via a bike.  A few stellar road cycling events are coming up in Arkansas, each offering a chance to enjoy the scenic roads found across the state.

This weekend ( September 20) is the Wheel A’ Mena. This cycling tour in Mena starts at 8 and scenery for riders includes views of the Ouachita Mountains and Talimena Scenic Drive.   Cyclists can choose to go either on a 30 mile route or a 70 mile one. Both take participants through Queen Wilhelmina State Park on top of Rich Mountain, the second highest peak in Arkansas. Of note, the routes include challenging climbs but there are also rest stops along the course. 

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The Wheel A’ Mena bills itself as a tune up race for the Big Dam Bridge 100, which takes place the following weekend ( September 27). The is the largest cycling tour in the state and route distances offered include a wide range of options: 13 miles, 20 miles, 50 miles, 68 miles, and 100 miles. Aid stations are available at different points along the course. Each year, thousands of cyclists from around the country and world participate in the annual event. The routes take riders across Central Arkansas and the Big Dam Bridge, a landmark in the city and the world’s largest bridge built specifically for bicycle and pedestrian traffic.  The finish line of the ride is Main Street in the Argenta Arts District of North Little Rock. 

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Also on the road cycling lineup is the Arky 100 on October 12.  This event was created in 1971 and is the oldest cycling event in the state.  The ride starts in Sheridan and route distances offered include 25, 50, 62, and 100 mile options.