Nestled in the rugged beauty of the Buffalo River Valley, Ponca, Arkansas, offers an exhilarating mix of terrain for mountain bikers—from gravity-fed downhill runs to remote wilderness singletrack. With trail systems that connect to the famed Oz Trails network and nearby downhill courses in Eureka Springs, this region delivers something for every rider.
1. BOC Ponca Downhill MTB Trails
A gravity-fed, shuttle-access system with over 11 miles of steep, technical downhill trails like White Lightning, Mule Kicker, and Skull Crusher. Located at the Buffalo Outdoor Center, the system is Arkansas’ longest downhill run.
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Skill level: Intermediate to advanced
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Shuttle: Available spring through fall
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Why ride: Fast, rocky descents, wooden features, and scenic Ozark views
“7-mile downhill. Longest in Arkansas… Fast, rocky, steep, and techy; smiles all day!” – Reddit user
2. Upper Buffalo River Run
This 2.5-mile singletrack descends through forested terrain near Ponca, with flowy segments, rock gardens, and tight switchbacks. It’s a great warm-up or quick thrill ride for more experienced riders.
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Rating: Blue/intermediate
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Why ride: Technical features, convenient location, and great views
3. Upper Buffalo Mountain Bike Trail System – Oz Trails
Located in the Upper Buffalo Wilderness, this rugged 40-mile backcountry trail system is part of the larger Oz Trails Northwest Arkansas network.
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Highlights: Steep climbs, creek crossings, ridge-line trails, and solitude
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Best for: Riders seeking a raw, remote adventure in the Ozarks
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Trail Map: Oz Trails – Upper Buffalo
4. Lake Leatherwood Gravity Trail Project – Eureka Springs
Located about 48 miles from Ponca, this dedicated mountain bike park in Eureka Springs features seven downhill lines (DH1–DH7), plus ~25 miles of cross-country and multi-use trails.
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Downhill: Rock gardens, gap jumps, drops, berms, and wooden features
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Cross-Country: Loops around the lake and wooded hillsides
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Shuttle service: Available through Oz Trails
5. Great Passion Play Trail System – Eureka Springs
Another extension of the Oz Trails system, these trails wind beneath the Christ of the Ozarks statue and include options like Deliverance, Rapture, and Genesis.
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Best for: All skill levels
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Why ride: Scenic views, mixed terrain, and well-maintained flowy trails
View the Upper Buffalo on the OzTrails website
