Upper Buffalo Trail
What to know
ROUTE DESCRIPTION
TRAIL #5: Upper Buffalo mountain bike trails include a wide variety of incredible Ozark Forest riding, native plant species and wildlife. This IMBA Epic ride earns its status from the total riding experience. Formally named the Buffalo Headwaters Trail System, this system is a combination of old school, hand-cut singletrack, newly built machine flow/downhill sections and lots of creek crossings with steep climbs and awesome descents, all covering about 40 miles of mostly intermediate to advanced action. Bomb down the 3.5-mile Fire Tower Loop, and connect over to Azalea Falls Trail, one of the best in Arkansas. Due to this remote area, bring plenty of water and snacks, and ideally a friend to ride with you.
Cave Mountain Road and Knuckles Creek Road provide trailhead kiosks and information to visitors. Primitive camping is available on Forest Service lands. Upper Buffalo has the feel of a wilderness area but offers maps and markers at each intersection, giving riders an easiness while navigating the lush forest. Prepare to get wet with many creek crossings, some of which offer swimming opportunities on hot days.
“The Upper Buffalo Mountain Bike Trail transcends all that an IMBA epic ride is – very challenging, a true outback experience and serenity in the forest on killer trails.”
Steve Schneider, Regional Representative,
International Mountain Bicycling Association
Trail Map: https://www.mtbproject.com/trail/7002912/upper-buffalo-headwaters-imba-epic