Bella Vista will officially open its extension of the Razorback Greenway trail later this month, providing cyclists and pedestrians a longer, safer route through Northwest Arkansas. The expansion follows recent improvements in Bentonville, where a new tunnel near Bentonville High School created a direct, protected connection between the school and the Walmart campus.
The Bentonville section improved a hazardous crossing on Southeast 14th Street with a barrier-free tunnel, making it safer for people walking, biking, skating, or using other active transportation. This upgrade has been especially welcomed by local cyclists like Dianne DeHart, who has ridden more than 2,000 miles this year and noted that the previous intersection was dangerous.
“Having a safe way to get across the street over there is amazing,” DeHart said. “This tunnel is going to eliminate the potential for some serious accidents.”
Now, with Bella Vista’s upcoming ribbon-cutting, the trail’s extension will connect more neighborhoods and recreational spots, encouraging more Northwest Arkansas families to get outside and enjoy longer outings along the Greenway.
Families looking for an active weekend with kids can plan to explore this extended trail section, which brings additional mileage for biking or walking. The Razorback Greenway already stretches over 36 miles, linking Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers, Bentonville, and soon Bella Vista. This recent progress only makes it easier for local families to spend time outdoors without worrying about busy streets or gaps in the trail.
The Bella Vista extension includes new paved stretches suitable for bikes and strollers, connecting parks and green spaces that make for natural rest stops. Pack water, snacks, and helmets for the kids, and plan for a few hours to enjoy the fresh air. The trail surface is smooth and family-friendly, perfect for children who are learning to ride or for multi-generational outings.
With these improvements, parents no longer have to worry about their kids encountering dangerous crossings or incomplete trails along the route. The safer infrastructure invites more community members to choose active transportation, whether for exercise, recreation, or connecting to schools and businesses.
Beyond recreation, this expansion supports a growing network that encourages healthier lifestyles and lowers the need for car trips in the region. More neighborhoods are now accessible by bike or on foot, tying Bella Vista more tightly into the daily rhythm of Northwest Arkansas.
For a family day out, consider starting in Bella Vista and enjoying the trail toward downtown Bentonville, stopping for snacks at a local café or exploring one of the parks along the way. The full route has multiple access points with parking and bathrooms, so families can choose the distance and difficulty level that fits their day.
These upgrades build on the commitment of Bentonville and Bella Vista city parks and recreation departments to maintain and improve the Greenway as a resource for all ages. The new extension also reflects the collaboration across cities to create a continuous, connected trail system that supports active living and community well-being.
If your family enjoys biking, walking, or skateboarding, the Razorback Greenway extension offers a safe and scenic way to spend time together this weekend and beyond. The ribbon-cutting event will be the official welcome to this new stretch, but it’s already ready for families to explore on their own schedule.
Plan for a few hours, bring everyone’s favorite gear, and take advantage of the fresh improvements making the Greenway a safer, longer route for families to enjoy in Northwest Arkansas.
Source: NWA Democrat Gazette
