The annual Square to Square fall bike ride returns on Saturday, Oct. 3, starting in Fayetteville and ending in Bentonville with a festive celebration on the Bentonville Square. Riders will head out from the Upper Ramble between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m., covering roughly 32 miles along the scenic Greenway corridor.
This route links two of Northwest Arkansas’ busiest downtown squares, and honestly, it’s pretty incredible to see so many cyclists making this journey in our own backyard. For perspective, a similar ride through a major city would likely be packed with car traffic, and you might pay a lot more just to participate. Here, community and nature take center stage, and that’s worth something.
The organizers have set up designated “pit stops” along the way to help riders recharge. These include Lake Fayetteville, Shiloh Square in Springdale, a spot across from the Northwest Arkansas Board of Realtors office in Lowell, and the Mercy Trailhead in Rogers. Each stop offers a chance to refuel and catch your breath before continuing to Bentonville.
Registration is required in advance, with participants ages 14 and older paying $37 to join. That entry fee comes with a goody bag, a t-shirt, and a finisher medal—nice keepsakes for anyone proud of their pedal power. Considering what you’d pay for a similarly organized ride in a city like Chicago or Denver, this is a solid value.
This event isn’t just a chance to rack up miles; it’s a way to experience the unique vibe of Northwest Arkansas on two wheels. The continuous greenway path between Fayetteville and Bentonville is a big deal for local cyclists since it connects multiple communities and offers a safer, more scenic alternative to busy street riding. The fall colors around that time? Especially stunning.
It’s worth pointing out that riders will pass through a mix of urban and natural landscapes, showcasing how NWA balances development and outdoor access. Fayetteville’s Upper Ramble and the Bentonville Square are both vibrant hubs for locals, highlighting how this ride isn’t just exercising legs—it’s also a celebration of community.
For anyone who’s ever biked around or between these towns, you know the route has something for every level of rider, but it’s definitely a workout. Think of it this way: This route is roughly the distance many casual riders might cover in a full day at a city park bike loop, yet here you get to finish with live music and local food around the Bentonville Square.
Community events like this go beyond fitness. They bring people together across NWA’s diverse towns, showing off our connective trail systems and creating opportunities for locals to meet each other in ways that don’t involve driving. It’s impressive how much this region has invested in active transportation over the years.
So, whether you’re a longtime cyclist or someone looking for a fall weekend challenge that’s uniquely Northwest Arkansas, this ride delivers. Plus, it’s a glimpse into what sets this corner of the country apart from larger metro areas—ample space, strong local support, and that unmistakable friendly vibe.
Registration details, route maps, and additional info are available through Fayetteville’s city resources and bike advocacy groups supporting the event. If you want to test yourself and soak up the best fall riding NWA offers, Oct. 3 has you covered.
Source: Fayetteville Flyer