The Razorback Greenway is the spine of Northwest Arkansas's trail network: a continuous paved path of about 36 miles that runs from Bella Vista and Bentonville in the north through Rogers and Springdale to Fayetteville in the south. It follows creeks, old rail corridors, parks and city streets, passing murals, sculpture, playgrounds and trailheads, and it connects directly to many of the area's best-known stops, including downtown Bentonville and the trails that lead to Crystal Bridges. For visitors it solves a common problem, which is how to see a spread-out region without a car in every leg of the day. Pick a section, rent a bike or bring your own, and ride from a hotel to a museum, a brewery or a park without worrying about traffic. The surface is smooth and mostly gentle, so casual riders, families and e-bike users all do well, and runners and walkers share the same path.
You do not have to ride the whole thing. Many visitors choose a favorite stretch: the Bentonville section links the square, Crystal Bridges and the Momentary, while parts of Rogers and Springdale take you past lakes, parks and neighborhood restaurants. Riding the full length from end to end is a rewarding long day for fit cyclists and a leisurely two-day trip for everyone else, and a shuttle or ride-share can bring you back.
Rental bikes and e-bikes are available from local shops and through bike-share programs in some areas, and e-bikes in particular turn the hills into a non-issue.
Etiquette is simple
Keep right, pass on the left with a call or bell, and slow down near road crossings and busy trailheads. Weekends can be crowded around the most popular segments, especially near downtown Bentonville and Fayetteville, so a weekday ride feels more relaxed. Summer heat is real, so bring water and ride early or in the evening; spring and fall bring the best conditions. Check for trail closures or detours before long rides, since construction and flooding can interrupt sections.
Practicals
Access points are spread along the route, with parking at many trailheads and parks. Bike shops near the Bentonville square can supply rentals, maps and advice. The Greenway pairs naturally with Slaughter Pen and Coler for a day that mixes smooth cruising with singletrack, and with the Bentonville square for a ride that ends at dinner.
For travelers who want to experience the region's trail culture without the technical demands of mountain biking, this is the easiest and most rewarding way in, and it makes a strong case for choosing a hotel near a trailhead.
Think about direction and logistics before you set out. A point-to-point ride, for example from Bentonville to Rogers, needs either a ride back or a plan to turn around, and an e-bike makes the return effortless. Bring a lock if you plan to stop at restaurants, and carry a spare tube or a small repair kit. The path crosses roads at intervals, so stay alert at crossings. Families with young children can pick short loops in parks, while committed riders can stitch together a century by combining the Greenway with loops on the singletrack networks.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided ride, walk or run on a continuous paved path through Bentonville, Rogers, Springdale and Fayetteville.
Best time
Spring and fall; summer mornings and evenings are best.
How long
One to four hours depending on the section you choose.
Tips
Rent a bike or e-bike locally, bring water, keep right and pass with a call, and check for closures before long rides.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Easy, car-free exploring on a smooth paved path.
- Families
- Mostly gentle and traffic-free, with parks and playgrounds along the way.
- Couples
- A relaxed ride between museums, breweries and dinner.
- Pair with
- Crystal Bridges, the Momentary and the Bentonville square.
- Time needed
- One to four hours.
Good questions
How long is the Razorback Greenway?+
About 36 miles, running from Bella Vista and Bentonville to Fayetteville.
Is it paved?+
Yes, it is a paved shared-use path suitable for most bikes.
Can I rent bikes?+
Local bike shops rent standard bikes and e-bikes.
Do I need to ride all of it?+
No, most visitors ride a favorite section.
Is it safe for kids?+
Mostly traffic-free, but watch road crossings and busy weekends.