Lap-Ready Gravity: All-Day Shuttle at Lake Leatherwood Bike Park
All Ages! • All Day • 7 Unique DH Trails
The first run of the day feels like opening a gift. Tires bite into loamy Ozark soil, pine needles snap like small applause, and the little valley below unfurls — a patchwork of lake glass and green ridgelines — as you pick a line and let the bike do the work. That compression at the top, the brief weightless pause over a tabletop, the smile that arrives when you nail a corner: it’s why riders drive hours and reorganize weekends to chase gravity. At Lake Leatherwood Bike Park, those moments arrive in quick succession. The shuttle drops you at the ridge every 5–10 minutes, and seven distinct downhill runs—each 10 to 20 minutes long depending on speed and skill—beckon.
Trail Wisdom
Pace Your Runs
Start on easier trails to warm up and alternate high-intensity runs with mellow laps to avoid fatigue-related mistakes.
Check Brake Pads Before You Ride
Shuttle days mean repeated descents—worn pads or overheated rotors can ruin a run; inspect braking components between laps.
Hydrate In Short Bursts
Use a small hydration pack and sip between runs—short climbs on the shuttle won’t demand it, but quick dehydration adds up.
Scout Lines From the Top
Take a moment at the drop-in to walk tricky features or ask locals about preferred lines—locals know which corners hold moisture or loose rock.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Short lakeside singletrack for a chilled cool-down lap
- •A quiet overlook on the south ridge with sunset views over the county
Wildlife
Wild turkey, White-tailed deer
Conservation Note
Trails are maintained by a mix of city resources and volunteer crews—ride on dry days, avoid cutting switchbacks, and pack out everything you bring to help preserve fragile soil and waterways.
Lake Leatherwood sits in the Ozarks, a region shaped by Paleozoic sedimentary rock and a long history of small-scale logging, mining, and community-built trails.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Fresh trail build-ups, Cool daytime temps
Challenges: Mud after rain, Root exposure
Spring brings fresh grips and cooler weather, but watch for muddy patches after rain—avoid riding saturated trails to protect tread and trail integrity.
summer
Best for: Long daylight hours, Consistent dry lines
Challenges: High temps, Dustier traction
Summer is great for stable, dry trails and longer sessions; bring sun protection and extra water as temperatures can spike in the Ozarks.
fall
Best for: Crisp temps, Peak foliage
Challenges: Early sunsets, Leaf-covered features
Fall is ideal—cooler air and gorgeous color—but fallen leaves can hide roots and rocks; run conservative lines if visibility is reduced.
winter
Best for: Quiet trails, Clear views
Challenges: Frozen or icy sections, Reduced shuttle schedule
Winters are quieter and can offer crisp riding days; expect limited shuttle hours and check for icy patches on shaded pitches.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Full-face or Enduro HelmetEssential
Protects from repeated impacts on downhill runs and gives confidence on steeper features.
Knee & Elbow PadsEssential
Lowers risk of injury on rocky chutes and during higher-speed runs.
Full-Suspension Mountain Bike (120–160mm)Essential
Provides control and comfort on rooty, rocky descents common at Lake Leatherwood.
Hydration Pack with Tool KitEssential
Keeps you hydrated and lets you handle quick roadside repairs between laps.
Common Questions
How long are the downhill runs?
Runs typically last 10–20 minutes depending on rider skill and speed; the shuttle shortens uphill time so you can repeat trails frequently.
Do I need to bring my own bike?
Yes—bring a suitable downhill or enduro bike; some local shops may offer rentals, but check availability in advance.
How often does the shuttle run?
Shuttles pick up roughly every 15 minutes from the bottom during operating hours (10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Friday–Sunday; weekdays by request for groups of six or more).
Is this park good for beginners?
There are milder trails suitable for less-experienced riders, but many runs are downhill-focused; beginners should start on easier lines and consider a guided session.
Are helmets required?
Helmets are strongly encouraged and recommended for safety; some operators may require at least a full-face or enduro helmet—confirm when booking.
Do I need a permit?
No special permit is required for shuttle rides, but day-use fees or parking fees for Lake Leatherwood City Park may apply—verify locally before arrival.
What to Pack
Helmet (safety), Hydration pack (frequent laps), Multi-tool + spare tube (repairs), Knee pads (protection)
Did You Know
Eureka Springs’ historic downtown is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and grew around natural springs long touted for their restorative properties.
Quick Travel Tips
Book shuttle slots in advance; arrive with tire pressure adjusted for loamy soil; top off fuel and snacks in Eureka Springs before heading to the park; check shuttle schedule and weather the morning of your ride.
Local Flavor
After a day of laps, head into downtown Eureka Springs for craft beer, barbecue, or a casual farm-to-table meal—downtown’s compact historic district makes it easy to find live music, local art, and a relaxed post-ride atmosphere.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport (XNA) ~1.5 hours drive; Distance from Eureka Springs: ~5–10 miles (15–20 minutes); Cell service: intermittent in valley sections, reliable near town and shuttle staging areas; Permits/fees: no special permits—park day-use or parking fees may apply.
Sustainability Note
Park trails depend on volunteer trail crews—ride only on designated trails, avoid riding wet/muddy lines, and pack out trash to reduce erosion and preserve trail quality.