By Krista Halling DVM DACVS
If you’re looking for a well-designed, scenic, and dog-friendly mountain biking destination, Coler Mountain Bike Preserve in Bentonville, Arkansas, is set to impress. Known for its world-class trails, flowy descents, and scenic forested landscapes, River and I went to Bentonville, Arkansas to check out whether this park lives up to its reputation.
We spent two days and two nights in the Bentonville area, enjoying the multitude of paved and dirt trails at Coler and the neighbouring Razorback Greenway paved bike path. Here’s what we discovered…
Why Coler and Bentonville, Arkansas are great for exploring with your dog
Bentonville has earned a reputation as one of the Mountain Biking Capitals of the World, and for good reason. The trails are meticulously maintained, and Coler Preserve is no exception, with over 17 miles (27 km) of trails and a mix of paved, singletrack, flow, and challenging technical sections.
What makes Coler especially appealing for dogpackers?
- Well-built trails with a well-marked range of difficulty levels – You can tailor your ride to suit both you and your pup’s fitness. If you’re not up for dirt, there’s a beautiful wide paved path that winds through the park, following a river and passing a cafe (Airship Coffee)
- Trails suitable for walking or running if you’re not a cyclist
- Local camping and RV park
- Water access and shaded sections – Keeping your dog cool is easier here, with creeks and plenty of tree cover
- Dog-friendly vibe – the park wasn’t crowded by any means, but we saw many people out on walks, runs or bike rides with their dog
Best dog-friendly trails at Coler
If you’re bringing your dog, here are a few trails worth checking out:
- Oscar’s Loop (Beginner-Intermediate) – A fun flow trail with moderate climbs and plenty of shade. Great for warming up or for dogs new to trail running
- Good Vibrations (Beginner) – A smooth and scenic trail with playful turns
- Esther’s Loop (Intermediate) – A rolling, playful ride with good sightlines, making it easier to keep an eye on your dog
- The Throne (Advanced) – If your dog has the endurance, this is a fast and thrilling descent with berms and small jumps.
Coler also has more technical features, rock gardens, and wooden bridges, but if your pup isn’t used to those, it’s best to stick to the flow trails.
More to Explore: The Razorback Greenway
If you’re visiting Bentonville with your dog and want to experience another iconic ride, don’t miss the Razorback Regional Greenway. This 40-mile (64-km) paved multi-use trail stretches from Bentonville down to Fayetteville, connecting several towns, parks, and outdoor spaces along the way.
Unlike the rugged singletrack of Coler, the Razorback Greenway is a smooth, scenic ride, perfect for cruising with your dog at a more relaxed pace. Whether you want a leisurely ride through town or a long-distance adventure, this trail offers a change of scenery and plenty of opportunities for both you and your pup to enjoy the ride.
The Greenway also winds through the Slaughter Pen trail system which comprises 40 miles (64 km) of beginner to expert-level single-track trails.
Highlights of the Razorback Greenway:
- Dog-friendly and well-maintained – With wide, paved paths and minimal elevation changes, it’s an easy ride for all skill levels.
- Shaded sections and rest stops – Plenty of spots to pull over, hydrate, and let your dog take a break.
- Scenic urban and natural areas – The trail winds through forests, riverside paths, and lively town centers.
- Access to parks, restaurants, and breweries – You can stop at dog-friendly spots along the way for a snack or a drink.
Best Sections of the Razorback Greenway for Dogpacking
- Bentonville to Rogers (6–10 miles; 10-15 km) – A beautiful ride that takes you through town, past Crystal Bridges Museum, and into the surrounding green spaces.
- Lake Fayetteville Loop (5.5 miles; 9 km) – If you’re in Fayetteville, this scenic lake loop is a great side trip off the main Greenway.
- Anywhere with a pit stop! There are plenty of spots where you and your pup can grab water, take a break, and soak in the vibrant outdoor culture of Northwest Arkansas.
Post-Ride Fun
One of the best parts of biking in Bentonville? It’s an incredibly dog-friendly town. After your ride, you can:
- Cool off at Coler Preserve’s air-conditioned café (where dogs are welcome outside)
- Relax at a dog-friendly brewery like Bike Rack Brewing to refuel
- Check out the Phat Tire Bike Shop for gear and local trail tips
- Stay in a cool cabin at the dog-friendly Bike Inn
- Hit up one of Bentonville’s many parks to let your pup rest and socialize.
- Explore the Bentonville square – Many shops and restaurants have dog-friendly patios
Dog Considerations: Safety & Conditioning
Tip for mountain biking with your dog:
- Before hitting the trails, make sure your dog is conditioned for running alongside your bike. Mountain biking requires a different level of stamina compared to a regular hike or jog. Build up their endurance gradually and always monitor for signs of fatigue or overheating
- Check the weather – Arkansas heat can be intense, so plan for early morning or late afternoon rides
- Bring plenty of water – While there are natural water sources, always have extra for your dog.
- Be mindful of paws – The dirt and rock terrain can be rough on sensitive paws, especially in hot weather. Inspect your dog’s paws for wounds or thorns after each ride and consider using dog booties
- Eyes matter – if you’re running through narrow single-track, consider using dog goggles to protect their eyes from trauma from branches
- Train solid recall – Even if your dog is on-leash, they need to respond immediately to your commands for safety
Coler Mountain Bike Preserve is an awesome destination for riding with your dog, and the Razorback Greenway adds another fantastic way to experience Bentonville on two wheels. Whether you’re hitting the trails at Coler or cruising along the Greenway, this area is designed for dog-friendly adventures. And nothing beats getting outdoors with your furry best friend by your side.
Have you biked any Bentonville trails with your dog? Let us know in the comments!
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