Back 40

The 21-mile loop that circumnavigates Bella Vista’s east side—XC miles with views and features.

Pure Arkansas singletrack with range. The Back 40 snakes across ridges and valleys on Bella Vista’s east side, alternating grinding climbs with fast, swooping descents. A ~21-mile outer loop circles the network, with many interior trails to extend or shorten your ride.

Quick Facts

  • Where: Bella Vista (east side); multiple access points around Lake Ann / Metfield area.
  • Character: Cross-country singletrack, bridges/bluffs, rock gardens, lake and creek views.
  • Signature sights: A hanging bridge cut into a bluff and a bridge over the Lake Ann spillway waterfall. Scout, ride in control.
  • Loop length: ~21–21.4 mi (outer loop).

E-Bike Notes

  • Allowed: OZ Trails welcomes Class 1 e-MTBs on dirt singletrack (Class 3 on roads only). Ride courteously and follow posted signs.

Getting There & Parking

  • Lake Ann Trailhead (central starting point for many riders).
  • Additional signed trailheads include Metfield, Mulligan, and Buck (see Back 40 map).
  • City information & hours (open daily, early–late) available via Bella Vista’s official Back 40 page.

Trail Etiquette & Safety

  • Control speed; expect two-way traffic except where signed.
  • Announce passes (“On your left”), give space on bridges and narrow bench cut.
  • Respect closures after rain; ride rockier/well-drained options or paved paths instead.
  • Helmet, gloves, 1–2 L water, tube/plug kit, pump/CO₂, multi-tool = standard kit.

Suggested Routes

Lake Ann Sightseer (Easy/Moderate • 60–90 min)

Start at Lake Ann. Ride a mellow out-and-back that includes the waterfall spillway bridge area, pausing for photos before turning around or linking a short interior loop.

Classic Back 40 Sampler (Moderate • 2–3.5 hrs)

From Metfield or Lake Ann, ride sections of the outer loop clockwise and use interior connectors to tailor 12–18 miles. Expect steady climbs, flowy descents, bridges, and rock gardens.

Advanced Add-On: The Ledges (Challenging • +2.5–3 mi)

A stunning, bluff-side alternate line off the loop—narrow exposure and tech; for confident riders only. Scout features and commit carefully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Best place to start?2025-09-30T13:32:25-06:00

Lake Ann puts you near the center with parking and quick access to scenic highlights; Metfield and other trailheads also work well.

Is the Back 40 good for e-MTBs?2025-09-30T13:31:41-06:00

Yes—Class 1 e-MTBs are allowed on OZ Trails. Ride in control, yield appropriately, and respect signs.

How long is the Back 40?2025-09-30T13:31:02-06:00

The signature outer loop is ~21 miles, with many interior miles to customize your ride.

Share This Article

Follow Us

Ready to Ride Bentonville?

Premium e-MTBs & Cruisers only minutes from Slaughter Pen Trail and Coler!

Featured Trails

Free Delivery and Pick-up

0+
Bikes Delivered
0+
Miles of Trails Ridden
Go to Top