The state's highest peak, Mount Magazine near Paris, has been likened to a Tour de France climb and was named the climb to do in Arkansas by Bicycling magazine.
From Mena on the Talimena National Scenic Byway, it's a nine-mile sufferfest up Rich Mountain, the state's second highest peak, and the site of splendid Queen Wilhelmina State Park, Arkansas's Castle in the Clouds.
From the intersection at Hwy. 64 and Hwy. 155, it's about three miles of rolling hills and one wall of work between you and the top of Mount Nebo. Rising 1,350 feet, it's a very challenging ascent with several sharp switchbacks.
This moderate ride allows you to stop and camp at four great Arkansas State Parks. At its max, the loop is more than 200 miles and takes you by Lake Ouachita, Lake Greeson, DeGray Lake and Lake Hamilton.
