Loop de Loop Challenge 2026

November 14, 2026 | Bella Vista, Arkansas

You read that right, Loop De Loop, originating in 2022 by MTB479, is BACK once again for 2026! It’s a ride, not a race. Show up, do whichever loops you want, and join the finish line festivities!

We’re staging from the Lake Ann Dam (Near Pinion Creek Falls off Hwy 71 in Bella Vista).

What is the Loop de Loop Challenge?

The Loop de Loop Challenge is a 50-mile test of wheel and will in Bella Vista, Arkansas. Hosted by Friends of Arkansas Singletrack (FAST), this isn’t a race—it’s a ride, a revelation, a reset—where riders tackle the Back 40 and Tunnel Vision trails to scour away doubt and forge relentless bonds. It’s about preparation, dedication, and crossing the finish line.

For the signature loop, you can expect about 5,500 feet of climbing through 50 miles of wooded singletrack, with every rider earning bragging rights and a heart full of memories. The grassroots community pushes you to conquer fear and finish stronger, together.

Not sure you’re up for the 50 mile challenge? Want something even harder than 50 miles? Check out the alternative course options below.

de Cause

All proceeds from this event will go towards maintaining and advocating for NWA soft surface trails, as well as raising funds for the Lago Vista West extension project (see below). There has a been a distinct need for more Green-rated trails on the west side of Bella Vista, and this project helps accomplish part of that goal. On top of that, rakes, shovels, weed eaters, and other trail tools need maintenance and replacement, as well. Thank you for partnering with us by registering for this event. If you’d like to contribute to help us on our mission, please consider Joining FAST or Donating to FAST.

de Course

The Loop de Loop Challenge spans 50 miles of Bella Vista’s scenic singletrack, hammering through the Back 40 and Tunnel Vision loops. With over 5,500 feet of climbing, the chert and scrabbly trails demand relentless focus to reach the finish.

Loop de Loop Classic: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/51222297

Distance: ~50 miles (for the OG Loop de Loop default route)
Terrain: Singletrack with a little pavement
Elevation: ~5,500 ft total elevation gain
Highlights: Tunnel Vision, Sugar Bridge, Back 40, relentless climbs, countless stories, miles of smiles
Skill Level: Intermediate, with multiple categories open for all riders

For those wanting to take on the Classic Loop de Loop challenge, you’re going to jump on the Sugar Bridge Trail, then do a clockwise loop of ALL of Tunnel Vision, come back down Sugar Bridge trail to the Lake Ann Dam, then do a Back 40 loop clockwise!

This year we have alternative loops if you want something different that the original 50-mile loop:

The Megaloop is 65 miles of the full Loop de Loop Challenge with some additional mileage on technical trails. With over 6,400 feet of climbing, this will test your skill and will.

Megaloop: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/53830089

The Tunnel Vision Loop is 28 miles of punchy climbs and switchbacks. With over 3,000 feet of climbing, you’ll earn your reward with exhilarating descents.

Tunnel Vision Loop: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/53846390

The Back 40 Loop is a 22 mile loop of classic Northwest Arkansas singletrack. With over 2,000 feet of climbing, you’ll get the taste of beauty that NWA is known for.

Back 40 Loop: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/53829380

The Mini Loop is a 16 mile loop of classic Northwest Arkansas singletrack. With over 1,500 feet of climbing, you’ll still get beautiful views, challenging climbs, and breathtaking descents in this shortest option. THIS LOOP DOES NOT HAVE AN AID STATION.

Mini Loop: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/56158100

Download Course Below

de Aid

Several sponsors are stepping up to provide aid stations throughout the course, as well as support at the start/finish line. Please support our sponsors by giving them a chance to earn your business. They support our community, so FAST hopes you help support them, too. This year’s edition will have 1 aid station on the far west side of Tunnel Vision, and 1 aid station on far east side of Back 40. See routes for exact locations.

de Parking

There is ample parking along Pinion Drive. DO NOT PARK ON TOP OF THE LAKE ANN DAM; it’s private property. The start/finish will be here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/sbPGWsE4B2zTLw2n7

Please be aware that parking at the dam is plentiful, but if you’re late, your spot may not be ideal, plus the check-in line could be long. In light of this, please plan to be there no later than 8:00 am!

de Schedule

This schedule is subject to change, but please plan on arriving at least an hour before your departure time, and no later than 08:00 AM. Check-in lines could be very long!

Check-in Opens: 7:30am
Megaloop departure: 8:00am
Check-in Closes: 8:30am
Full Loop de Loop & Tunnel Vision Ebike class starts: 9:00am
Full Loop de Loop & Tunnel Vision Bicycle class starts: 9:01am
Back 40 & Mini Loop Ebike class starts: 9:02am
Back 40 & Mini Loop Bicycle class starts: 9:03am
Support Tents at Tunnel Vision/Highlands Blvd and Back40/Commonwealth Rd start: 10:00am
Support Tent at Tunnel Vision/Highlands Blvd ends: 1:00pm
Support Tent at Back40/Commonwealth Rd ends: 5:00pm