Nestled in the rolling Ozark hills of Northwest Arkansas, Bella Vista  is a hidden gem that offers outdoor adventure, stunning scenery, and small-town charm. Whether you're into mountain biking, kayaking, hiking, or just looking for a peaceful getaway, Bella Vista has something for everyone . If you’re planning a trip and wondering where to go, here’s why Bella Vista, AR should be at the top of your list . 1. World-Class Mountain Biking Trails 🚵‍♂️ Northwest Arkansas is known as one of the best places for mountain biking in the U.S. , and Bella Vista is no exception. With over 100 miles of trails , including the famous Back 40 and Little Sugar trail systems , there’s no shortage of flowy singletrack, challenging rock gardens, and scenic forest rides. What makes it great? Trails for all skill levels —from easy rides to expert-only descents. Beautiful Ozark scenery with rolling hills, bluffs, and creek crossings. Easy access to other top MTB spots like Slaughter Pen and Coler Mountain Bike Preserve  in nearby Bentonville. 2. Crystal-Clear Lakes for Kayaking & Paddleboarding 🌊 If you love being on the water, Bella Vista’s lakes  are perfect for a relaxing paddle  or a day of fishing and swimming . The area is home to seven lakes , including Lake Avalon, Lake Windsor, and Lake Ann , each offering calm waters and picturesque surroundings. Why it’s a must-do? Perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. Less crowded than other lakes in Northwest Arkansas. Peaceful, scenic coves and inlets for a quiet escape. 3. Stunning Hiking Trails & Waterfalls 🥾 Looking for a scenic hike ? Bella Vista’s trails showcase lush forests, rugged bluffs, and hidden waterfalls . Popular spots include: Tanyard Creek Nature Trail  – A short, beautiful loop with a waterfall and wooden bridges. Blowing Springs Park  – A peaceful trail system with caves, springs, and easy hiking. Back 40 Trails  – Not just for bikers! These trails also have great hiking options. What makes it special? Year-round beauty with wildflowers in spring, fall foliage, and mild winters . Plenty of dog-friendly  trails for outdoor-loving pets. Short hikes with big rewards , like waterfalls and scenic overlooks. 4. Peaceful Small-Town Vibes with Nearby City Attractions 🌆 Bella Vista is the perfect mix of outdoor adventure and small-town relaxation . The town itself is quiet, friendly, and scenic, but you’re also just minutes away from Bentonville , a city packed with art, food, and culture . Things to check out nearby: Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art  – A world-class museum surrounded by nature. The Momentary  – A modern art and performance space. Bentonville Square  – Cute shops, farmer’s markets, and delicious restaurants. Whether you’re looking for an action-packed trip  or a slow-paced retreat , Bella Vista lets you enjoy both. 5. Affordable & Less Crowded Than Other Destinations While nearby Bentonville gets most of the attention, Bella Vista is a quieter, more affordable alternative  with all the same outdoor perks. Why Bella Vista over bigger travel spots? Budget-friendly accommodations —cabins, Airbnbs, and cozy resorts. Less crowded  than major tourist spots but just as beautiful. Laid-back atmosphere  with friendly locals and a welcoming vibe. Plan Your Trip to Bella Vista Today! If you’re craving adventure, nature, and relaxation , Bella Vista, AR, is the perfect place to visit. Whether you’re hitting the trails, paddling on a lake, or just enjoying the Ozark scenery, there’s something here for everyone who loves the outdoors . Want to experience the best of Bella Vista? Book a guided adventure with Bella Vista Adventure Co.  and make your trip unforgettable! 🚵‍♂️🌊⛰️

It's been chilly in NWA! Intro: Winter in Northwest Arkansas has been throwing some serious curveballs—cold, rain, and not nearly enough time on the trails. If you’re feeling stir-crazy, you’re not alone. But just because the weather isn't cooperating doesn't mean your biking mindset has to take a back seat. Here are five ways to keep your skills sharp, your stoke high, and your bike in top shape while waiting for the thaw. 1. Dial in Your Bike Maintenance Now’s the perfect time to give your bike the love it deserves. Deep clean your drivetrain, check for worn brake pads, inspect your suspension, and make sure your tires are ready for the next ride. If you’ve been putting off a tune-up, get it done now. Time for a Tune. 2. Work on Your Skills Indoors No trails? No problem. Set up a balance board, practice track stands, or work on bunny hops in the garage. Strengthening your core and balance will make you a better rider when you hit the dirt again. 3. Stay Fit Off the Bike A strong rider is a fast rider. Hit the gym, do bodyweight exercises, or take up yoga to improve flexibility and prevent injuries. If you have a trainer, throw your bike on it and get some indoor miles in. Cardio 4. Plan Your Next Adventure Use this downtime to research new trails, plan a road trip, or set personal riding goals for the year. Get hyped for upcoming riding events and clinics (like ours at Bella Vista Adventure Co.). Soon it will be Spring! 5. Connect with the Community You’re not the only one missing the trails. Join a local group ride once the weather clears, check in with riding buddies, or dive into some MTB YouTube content to stay inspired. Outro: Winter might be trying to slow you down, but you don’t have to let it. Use this time wisely, and you’ll be back on the trails stronger than ever. Need help planning your next ride? Check out Bella Vista Adventure Co. for guided rides, coaching, and adventure experiences once the weather warms up!

A Major Win for Arkansas Mountain Biking Bike Lift Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders recently announced new legislation aimed at developing lift-access downhill mountain biking parks across Arkansas. This move is set to strengthen Arkansas' reputation as a world-class mountain biking destination, bringing more infrastructure, economic growth, and opportunities for both locals and visitors. For BV Adventure Co., this is an exciting development that could transform how riders experience trails in the region. What Does This Legislation Include? The proposed legislation focuses on building lift-access mountain biking infrastructure, such as: Chairlifts and gondolas to transport riders and their bikes uphill Trail expansion and enhancements to accommodate gravity-fed riding Increased funding for outdoor recreation and tourism development The initiative aligns with Arkansas' ongoing push to be the Mountain Biking Capital of the World, and it could be a game-changer for both casual riders and dedicated athletes. NWA Local Impact: More Access, More Growth With Bella Vista already set to welcome a new OZ Trails downhill bike park, and Mena’s plans for an upcoming bike park, this legislation could accelerate these projects and bring more resources to Arkansas’ cycling scene. Bella Vista’s OZ Trails Bike Park: This project is expected to introduce progressive jump lines, flow trails, and an advanced downhill experience in Northwest Arkansas. A lift-access feature could make this park a must-visit destination. Mena’s Future Bike Park: Mena is planning a major mountain biking facility, and if this legislation passes, it could open doors for lift-access riding there as well. How BV Adventure Co. Fits In At BV Adventure Co., we’re all about bringing adventure to riders of all levels. With potential lift-access trails in our backyard, we’re looking forward to: Guided adventure tours incorporating these new parks Downhill skills coaching for riders looking to progress Expanding our services to include more gravity-focused riding experiences Arkansas is already a top-tier destination for mountain biking, and this legislation could solidify that status for decades to come. What’s Next? The legislation is still in its early stages, but its approval could mean huge opportunities for riders, local businesses, and outdoor enthusiasts. We’ll be keeping a close eye on the progress and updating our community as things unfold. In the meantime, let’s get out and ride! Stay tuned for more updates from BV Adventure Co., and let us know what you think about this exciting news.

Thunder Dome at Coler Bike Preserve Riding solo is great. It gives you time to push yourself, explore at your own pace, and get lost (sometimes literally). But if you really want to level up your skills , nothing beats a guided mountain bike tour . It’s not just about seeing new trails—it’s about learning, growing, and riding better in a way that you can’t get from just watching YouTube videos or following Strava maps. Here’s why a guided ride  is one of the smartest investments you can make in your mountain biking skills. 1. You Learn Faster (and Safer) Ever feel like you’re just winging it on the trails? Maybe you’ve been trying to hit that drop for months, but something always holds you back. A guide sees what you’re doing wrong in real time  and gives you instant feedback to correct it. Instead of spending weeks (or years) figuring out the right body position, braking technique, or line choice, you get that knowledge right away . And with a professional guiding you, you’ll avoid bad habits  and, more importantly, injuries . A rider once told me he’d been riding for years but always struggled with switchbacks. One session with a guide, a small tweak in body positioning, and—boom—he was railing corners with confidence. 2. You Ride Trails You’d Normally Avoid Let’s be honest—if you’re alone, you probably stick to the same handful of trails you’re comfortable with. Maybe you glance at that black diamond  sign, consider it for a second, and then decide, “Eh, not today.” With a guide, “not today” becomes “Let’s go for it.” A good guide matches the trails to your skill level  while pushing you just enough outside your comfort zone. They’ll introduce you to features you might have skipped, but in a way that makes them manageable. The result? More confidence, more fun, and way better riding. 3. You Get Pro-Level Trail Intel You can stare at trail maps all day, but nothing replaces local knowledge . A guide knows the hidden gems, the best lines , and what trails ride best under different conditions. For example, a rider visiting from Colorado once told me, “I almost skipped this trail because it looked like an easy green on the map. But my guide took me through a different route that had some of the best flow I’ve ever ridden.” It’s not just about the trails themselves —it’s about knowing how to ride them right . Group Ride, Coler Bike Preserve 4. You Ride More, Worry Less Have you ever spent half your ride staring at your phone , trying to figure out where you are? Or stopping every five minutes to check a map? With a guide, all of that disappears. No second-guessing. No wrong turns. No wasted time. Just pure riding . And because you’re not worried about getting lost, you can focus on actually improving . You’ll spend your energy on riding better , not just riding. 5. You Improve Without Even Realizing It Some of the best learning happens when you’re just having fun . A good guide doesn’t just lecture you on form and technique—they help you ride naturally  while sneaking in small adjustments that make a big difference. By the end of the ride, you’ll look back and realize, “Wow, I just cleared that rock garden without stopping,” or “I finally hit that drop without overthinking it.” 6. You Ride with Confidence—Even After the Tour The best part? The skills you pick up stick with you . Once you’ve learned how to properly approach a berm, hit a drop, or pick the best line through a rocky section, you’ll carry that knowledge into every ride after . And that means next time you’re out with your buddies, you’re not the one cautiously rolling around the feature—you’re leading the charge. Ready to Ride? Let’s Make It Happen If you’re serious about improving your riding, don’t waste another season guessing your way through it . A guided tour is hands down the fastest, safest, and most fun way to become a better rider —whether you're a total beginner or already ripping trails. Book a ride with Bella Vista Adventure Co. , and let’s take your riding to the next level.

Huntley Gravity Zone, Built by Gravity Logic. The mountain biking scene in Northwest Arkansas is about to reach new heights—literally! OZ Trails™ just announced plans for the first-ever chairlift-served downhill bike park  in the region, and it’s coming to Bella Vista.  This is a game-changer for local riders, visitors, and the entire cycling community. What’s Coming to Bella Vista? Set to break ground in Spring 2025,  the OZ Trails Bike Park will feature: Over 20 miles of gravity-fed trails  designed for all skill levels. A high-speed chairlift system  by Poma-Leitner, making uphill travel effortless. A full-service dining area, bike shop, and rental center  at the OZ Trails HQ. A community plaza, pump track, hiking trail,  and even art installations throughout the park. Located just off Highway 71  between Bella Vista and Bentonville, the park will seamlessly connect to the existing OZ Trails network,  creating one of the most accessible and exciting mountain bike destinations in the country. Why This Matters for Bella Vista This is more than just another bike park—it’s a huge step forward  for our community: Boosting Tourism: Bella Vista is already a hotspot for outdoor recreation. With this addition, expect more visitors, more local business support, and a stronger economy. Elevating Our Riding Scene: From new riders  to experienced shredders,  the park’s trails will cater to everyone, making the sport even more welcoming. Year-Round Adventure:  The lift system means more laps, less climbing,  and a whole new level of gravity riding  in NWA. What’s Next? The official plans will be submitted at the March Bella Vista Planning Commission meeting, with construction kicking off soon after. While we wait, one thing’s for sure—Bella Vista’s reputation as an epic outdoor destination  is about to hit the next level. Stay tuned for updates, and in the meantime, let’s get ready to ride into an exciting future!   Learn more about the OZ Trails Bike Park here.

Me (Joseph Olivarez) and Daughter at Lake Windsor Nestled in the heart of Northwest Arkansas, Bella Vista is more than just an outdoor paradise —it’s a fantastic place to call home and raise a family . With top- tier schools, endless outdoor activities, a safe and welcoming community, and a slower, family-friendly pace of life, Bella Vista offers everything parents could want for their children. 1. A Safe and Supportive Community One of the biggest factors for families choosing Bella Vista is safety and community. With low crime rates and a close-knit, welcoming atmosphere, it’s the kind of place where neighbors look out for each other, and kids can grow up with a sense of freedom and security. Bike Ride with Family and Friends 2. Outdoor Adventures Right in Your Backyard Raising kids in Bella Vista means raising little explorers! With miles of mountain biking and hiking trails, seven lakes, parks, and nature preserves, families have endless opportunities for outdoor fun. Whether it’s a bike ride on The Back 40, a weekend hike at Tanyard Creek, or a day of fishing on Lake Windsor, adventure is always just a few steps away. 3. Excellent Schools and Educational Opportunities Bella Vista is served by the Bentonville School District, one of the best in Arkansas. The area also offers top-notch private schools, homeschooling groups, and enrichment programs, giving families plenty of options for a quality education. 4. Affordable Cost of Living Compared to many other outdoor-loving towns across the U.S., Bella Vista remains affordable for families. Housing costs, property taxes, and the overall cost of living are lower than in many similar outdoor destinations, allowing families to enjoy a high quality of life without breaking the bank. Me and My Little One 5. A Slower, Healthier Pace of Life Bella Vista strikes a perfect balance between small-town charm and access to modern conveniences. With fresh air, nature all around, and a community that values outdoor living, it’s easy to raise kids in an environment that prioritizes health, happiness, and connection. Plus, you’re just a short drive from the energy and amenities of Bentonville and Fayetteville! 6. A Thriving, Family-Oriented Community From seasonal festivals and farmer’s markets to kids’ biking programs and family-friendly events, Bella Vista is filled with opportunities for families to connect, play, and grow together. The community truly embraces a family-first lifestyle, making it easy to get involved and build lifelong friendships. Thinking of Moving Here? Whether you're already a local or considering a move, one thing is clear— Bella Vista is a place where families thrive. With a safe environment, outdoor adventure at every turn, great schools, and a welcoming community, it’s hard to find a better place to raise kids. Ready to experience the Bella Vista lifestyle? Come visit, explore, and see why so many families are choosing to call this incredible place home.

Bella Vista, Your Adventure Awaits. Bella Vista, Arkansas, is no longer just a hidden gem—it’s a full-fledged outdoor paradise. Whether you’re a mountain biker, hiker, paddler, or just someone who loves being outside, Bella Vista offers some of the best adventure opportunities in the country. Here’s why. 1. A World-Class Mountain Biking Destination Bella Vista is home to some of the most scenic and diverse mountain bike trails in Northwest Arkansas. With Huntley Gravity Zone, The Back 40, and Blowing Springs, you get everything from flowy singletrack, technical rock gardens to incredible jump lines. And now, with the newly announced OZ Trails Bike Park , Bella Vista is leveling up as a global riding hotspot. 2. Endless Hiking and Trail Running If two wheels aren’t your thing, no worries—Bella Vista’s trail system is just as incredible for hiking and running. You’ll find miles of lush, forested paths, stunning overlooks, and hidden waterfalls. Whether it’s a casual family stroll or a heart-pumping trail run, there’s a route for everyone. 3. Lakes, Kayaking, and Stand-Up Paddleboarding With seven lakes, Bella Vista is a paddler’s dream. Whether you’re into kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or fishing, the calm waters make for the perfect escape. You can explore Lake Ann, Lake Avalon, or Lake Windsor for a peaceful day on the water. 4. A Year-Round Outdoor Playground One of the best things about Bella Vista? You can adventure here all year long. The mild winters mean you can keep riding, hiking, and paddling even when other parts of the country are covered in snow. And when spring and fall roll around? Absolute perfection. 5. A Thriving Outdoor Community Adventure is even better when shared. Bella Vista has an active and welcoming outdoor community, from group rides and races to paddleboarding meetups and hiking clubs. Whether you’re new to the area or a longtime local, you’ll always find people who share your passion for the outdoors. Ready to Explore? Bella Vista is more than just a place—it’s an experience. Whether you’re looking for adrenaline-fueled rides, peaceful nature escapes, or family-friendly outdoor fun, you’ll find it here. So grab your bike, lace up your hiking boots, or hit the water— your next adventure starts here.