Two-Wheeled, Four-Legged Traveling in the Arkansas Delta!

Over the next two weekends, there’s great riding fun in the Arkansas Delta, whether it’s on two wheels or four legs!

In West Memphis, it’s the 2nd annual Arkansas Delta Flatlander on Oct. 10. The Flatlander is a metric century ride (100 kilometers or 62 miles). The trip follows the path of the Mississippi River south, circling Horseshoe Lake before heading back north to the starting point of the ride. There are also 20 and 40-mile routes available. New this year is the St. Francis Levee Gravel Grider, a 21-mile ride north on the St. Francis Levee through the proposed Crittenden County Eco-Park and past the Arkansas landing of the Harahan Bridge project. Due to the rough terrain of the ride, it’s meant for “fat tire” bicycles. As well as the bike rides, the event offers a variety of food trucks and live music. 

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 five-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. 

Going into its ninth year, the Tour da Delta takes place in Helena-West Helena on Oct. 17. Participants can choose a ride of 14, 30, 62, or 100 miles. The route ride passes a beautiful cypress filled lake, traverses the rolling hills and scenic beauty of the St. Francis National Forest and includes the sights and landmarks of downtown historic Helena. Come join in the fun!

Village Creek State Park in Wynne hosts Saddle Up for St. Jude on Oct. 17. There will be children’s horse and wagon rides, an auction, lunch, a barbeque dinner, music, and other activities with all of the proceeds going to help St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.