Nestled in the vibrant city of Bentonville, Arkansas, Coler Mountain Bike Preserve offers an unparalleled outdoor escape. More than just a haven for mountain bikers, Coler, particularly its South Gateway entrance, welcomes everyone seeking a slice of natural paradise. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist, a casual walker, or simply in search of a unique coffee experience, Coler Mountain Bike Preserve, accessed via the South Gateway, promises an idyllic retreat.
Coler Mountain Bike Preserve boasts an impressive 17 miles of trails meticulously designed to cater to all skill levels. Conveniently located just five minutes from downtown Bentonville and easily accessible through the South Gateway, this recreational gem serves as a central hub connecting to over 250 miles of natural-surface trails across Northwest Arkansas. For those eager to explore the trails, the South Gateway provides a direct and welcoming entry point to this extensive network.
For mountain biking enthusiasts, Coler Mountain Bike Preserve is thoughtfully divided into two distinct areas, each accessible from the South Gateway. The Westside trails are perfect for beginner and intermediate riders, offering flowing paths and gentle slopes. Venture to the Eastside, and you’ll discover more challenging terrain crafted for advanced and expert bikers. Across the preserve, riders can enjoy a diverse range of trail types, including flow trails, cross-country routes, rock gardens, dual slalom courses, and thrilling flyovers, all incorporating stone, wood, metal, and jump features. The renowned Peak One Hub stands as the centerpiece, guiding riders from a single point down three distinct trails, each marked by its level of difficulty, ensuring a personalized biking experience for everyone starting their ride from the South Gateway.
Airship at Coler Mountain bike preserve
Image: The distinctive architecture of Airship Coffee stands out against the natural backdrop at Coler Mountain Bike Preserve.
However, the allure of Coler Mountain Bike Preserve extends far beyond mountain biking. Even if you’re not a rider, Coler, especially when approached from the South Gateway, offers a wealth of attractions.
Airship is only accessible via paved trail
Image: A smooth paved trail leads visitors towards Airship Coffee, showcasing the accessible pathways within Coler Mountain Bike Preserve.
Camping at Coler Mountain Bike Preserve is an experience in itself, offering uniquely designed facilities with exceptional amenities. The campground, easily accessible and a short distance from the South Gateway parking, features 22 campsites, including small and large tent platforms, camper van parking pads, and an ADA-accessible site. Elevated wooden platforms provide ideal dry setups for tents, and hammock stands are thoughtfully placed throughout the campground. Adding to the communal atmosphere is a central fire pit, regularly stocked with wood each evening, creating a perfect gathering spot for campers.
Camping at Coler
Image: Tent platforms nestled amongst the trees in the Coler Mountain Bike Preserve campground, illustrating the well-maintained camping facilities.
Bathhouses at Coler
Image: Modern bathhouse facilities at the Coler Campground, providing campers with secure restrooms and hot showers.
Modern bathhouses provide secure restrooms and hot showers exclusively for campers, blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings. A secure, camper-only parking area is located within a gated entrance. For added convenience, the campground also includes a bike wash and repair station and a water bottle refill station, catering directly to outdoor enthusiasts.
While the campsites maintain a primitive feel with no water, sewer, or electrical hook-ups, the presence of the modern bathhouse and the close proximity to Airship Coffee, a nearby micro-cafe, elevates the camping experience significantly. This blend of nature and accessible comfort creates a truly idyllic setting.
The view from Airship
Image: Panoramic view from Airship Coffee, capturing the scenic beauty of Coler Mountain Bike Preserve and surrounding landscape.
Beer garden and outdoor seating area
Image: The inviting beer garden and outdoor seating area at Airship Coffee, perfect for relaxation and enjoying the natural ambiance.
Serving coffee, tea, craft beer, tacos and more
Image: A selection of offerings at Airship Coffee, including coffee, craft beer, and tacos, catering to diverse tastes.
Path from the camping area to Airship
Image: A well-maintained path leading from the Coler Campground towards Airship Coffee, highlighting the easy access between amenities.
Roof top of Airship
Image: The unique rooftop architecture of Airship Coffee, providing an elevated vantage point and distinctive design.
An Ozark barn play space
Image: A refurbished Ozark barn serving as a play space at Coler Mountain Bike Preserve, blending rustic charm with recreational fun.
A short stroll from the campground and easily reached from the South Gateway is Airship at The Homestead, a micro-cafe and beverage bar housed in a striking modern structure. Airship is renowned for its locally roasted coffees, teas, kombucha, and craft beers. The menu also features pastries, tacos, barbecue nachos, and vegan options. Guests can choose from various seating areas, including a beer garden, rooftop bar, and covered open-air seating with rope swings and scenic views.
The open grassy areas and paved paths around Airship, readily accessible from the South Gateway, are often bustling with activity – families, individuals, and dogs biking, running, and walking. An unconventional play area, featuring a refurbished Ozark barn, adds to the unique atmosphere. Sunlight filters through the barn’s wooden slats as children explore lofts and run within. Nearby, a second wooden structure displays a neon sign proclaiming “Paradise Found,” a fitting description for this special place.
Airship, a key attraction within Coler, is accessible only via paved trails, ensuring ease of access for all visitors arriving from the South Gateway. Parking lots are situated less than a mile from the cafe, and the facility is wheelchair accessible, welcoming everyone from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily.
Despite its proximity to the city center, Coler Mountain Bike Preserve, especially when entering through the South Gateway, offers a sense of peaceful seclusion. The unexpected combination of a modern cafe within a natural preserve creates a feeling of a hidden gem, a place you might hesitate to share, yet know others would equally cherish.
Coler Mountain Bike Preserve
Image: An overview shot of Coler Mountain Bike Preserve, showcasing the diverse landscape and trail network.
Plan Your Visit to Coler Mountain Bike Preserve South Gateway:
- Trail Map: Explore the trails with the online map: https://www.oztrailsnwa.com/trail-locations/coler-mtb-preserve/ or contact [email protected].
- Camping Reservations: Secure your campsite in advance: https://www.peelcompton.org/coler-mountain-bike-preserve/visit/. Please note the campground’s grilling policy (propane gas grills only, no charcoal or wood) and pet restrictions.
- South Gateway & North Gateway Parking: Navigate easily by entering “Coler Mountain Bike Preserve South Gateway” or “Coler Creek Park North Gateway” into Google Maps. Both gateways provide access, but the South Gateway is highlighted as a primary entry point for this article.
