Slaughter Pen Trail

Armadillo's Last Stand: The Crown Jewel of Bentonville's Slaughter Pen Trail Network

Overview

Armadillo's Last Stand, part of the esteemed Slaughter Pen trail network in Bentonville, Arkansas, offers a tantalizing blend of singletrack escapism. Covering 15 miles and catering to riders of intermediate level, this trail network incorporates an array of natural and engineered features that cater to mountain bikers of various skill levels. But what sets Armadillo's Last Stand apart? Let's find out.

Terrain and Features

• 100% singletrack terrain
• Predominantly hard-packed surfaces with some gravel sections
• Log rides and challenging short segments, with easy alternate routes
• Rideable in both directions

The trail offers a delightful combination of hard-packed and gravel surfaces. Seasoned with log rides and brief sections of trickier terrain, the trail always provides bypasses for the less adventurous. So, whether you are a weekend warrior or a daily shredder, this trail offers options for all.

Accessibility and Route Information

Getting There:

• From Wal-Mart General Office in Bentonville, drive north on U.S. Highway #71B for about 3 miles.
• Look for the City of Bentonville trailhead on your right.
• Park and proceed to ride the Bentonville trail north for approximately half a mile to reach the Slaughter Pen Hollow trailhead.

The trail network is organized as a network route, giving you the freedom to explore different paths while always being able to find your way back to the start. Furthermore, the trail can be ridden in either direction, doubling your possibilities for adventure.

Community and Vibe

Enthusiastic riders who have traversed the trail sing praises for the local bike community and the town's ambience. The sentiment is mutual among both local riders and out-of-towners who've made the trip. The area is peppered with helpful bike shops and the local vibe is overwhelmingly positive. Pubs and breweries also dot the landscape for those who wish to cap their rides with some local flavors.

Points of Interest

• Downhill Flow Trail
• Ozone
• Skill parks, numerous berms, and jumps

Even the most nit-picky riders struggle to find faults with Slaughter Pen, especially when evaluating variety, craftsmanship, and location. In short, the only riders who might not enjoy themselves here are those in search of extreme climbs or long downhills.

The Bottom Line

Whether you're a mountain biking newbie or a seasoned veteran, Armadillo's Last Stand offers a well-rounded experience. It's not just about the trails; it's about the community, the surrounding establishments, and the town itself. In Bentonville, mountain biking isn't just a sport; it's a culture. Make the trip, and you'll understand why this trail network earns rave reviews and unflinching loyalty from its riders.For additional information, visit Slaughter Pen's official website or Phat Tire Bicycles.