Cycling the Delta
Where Gravel Roads
Tell Stories
The Arkansas Delta is emerging as one of the South's most compelling cycling destinations. From the soon-to-complete Delta Heritage Trail to the gravel roads of St. Francis National Forest, this is cycling that connects you to place, history, and community.
Opening 2025
The Delta Heritage Trail
When the Delta Heritage Trail completes in late 2025, it will stretch nearly 85 miles from Lexa (just outside Helena) to Arkansas City, making it one of the longest rail-trails in the South.
The trail traverses the Dale Bumpers National Wildlife Refuge, passing through old-growth cypress forests that feel prehistoric. Birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts will find plenty to discover, and the occasional black bear has been known to make an appearance.
The State of Arkansas has invested over $20 million in partnership with the Walton Family Foundation to complete this trail. Two major bridge projects over the White River and Arkansas River are finishing in 2025.
The Edwardian Inn sits near the northern terminus, making us an ideal basecamp for exploring the full trail.
84.5
miles of trail through the Delta
Community Partner
studioDRIFT
Founded in 2020 by Kara and Martin Smith—a seventh-generation Delta family—studioDRIFT is revitalizing the Arkansas Delta through outdoor recreation. Their work centers on a simple truth:
“Building a future starts with connecting to the past. The historic and cultural assets, combined with the natural resources in our communities, tell the story of who we are.”
Their flagship project, the Crowley's Ridge Gravel Trail, will eventually link 18 communities and 7 state parks across 250 miles of eastern Arkansas. They've already raised over $1 million for construction.
The Delta Grind, their Helena-based event, starts from downtown and winds through St. Francis National Forest to Marianna—one of the finest gravel routes in the state.
Coming to the Delta
The Arkansas Graveler
The Arkansas Graveler has become one of the premier multi-day gravel events in the country, produced by the Ozark Foundation in partnership with the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism.
Each edition takes riders through a different region of Arkansas. The 2025 route traverses the Ouachita Mountains from Mena to Russellville. But in October 2026, the Graveler comes to us with the Delta Blues Edition.
This five-day immersive journey will blend gravel roads, Delta music, regional food, and community in a powerful tribute to the Delta's soul. It's a different kind of gravel experience—swapping mountainous climbs for the farm-rich flatlands and cultural depth of the Delta.
Mark Your Calendar
Delta Blues Edition
October 6-10, 2026
Ride from Our Door
Routes Worth Knowing
Whether you prefer gravel, pavement, or a mix of both, Helena offers exceptional riding through diverse landscapes.
Helena to Marianna Loop
~50 miles
The signature route of the Delta Grind. Leave downtown Helena along the levee, wind through St. Francis National Forest on the “low road,” reach Marianna's town square, then return via the “high road” past Storm Creek Lake. Roughly 50% gravel, 50% pavement.
Elevation: ~1,800 ft gain
St. Francis Forest Roads
Varied distances
Over 20,000 acres of national forest with miles of quiet gravel roads. Bear Creek Lake and Storm Creek Lake make excellent turnaround points or picnic spots. The forest roads are well-maintained and see minimal traffic.
Surface: Gravel forest roads
Delta Heritage Trail
Up to 84.5 miles
Completing in late 2025. A converted rail-trail running from Lexa to Arkansas City through cypress forests and the Dale Bumpers National Wildlife Refuge. Flat, accessible, and unlike anything else in the region.
Surface: Paved rail-trail
Events Calendar
Upcoming Rides & Festivals
The Delta cycling community is growing. These events bring riders together to explore the region's roads and celebrate its culture.
studioDRIFT
Birdeye Gravel Festival
November 7-9, 2025 · Crowley's Ridge
A weekend of gravel riding, farm-to-table dining, and house concerts celebrating the Delta's agricultural heritage.
Learn MorestudioDRIFT
Delta Grind
April 2026 · Helena, Arkansas
Three route options (18, 31, or 50 miles) starting from downtown Helena, winding through the St. Francis National Forest to Marianna.
Learn MoreOzark Foundation & ADPHT
Arkansas Graveler: Delta Blues Edition
October 6-10, 2026 · Arkansas Delta
The Graveler comes to the Delta for a multi-day immersive journey blending gravel roads, music, food, and community.
Learn More
Your Basecamp
Rest Well, Ride Better
After a long day in the saddle, you deserve more than a chain hotel. The Edwardian Inn offers the comfort and character that make a cycling trip memorable.
Hot Breakfast
Fuel up with a complimentary homemade breakfast before you ride
Secure Bike Storage
Covered porch and interior storage for your bike
Bike-Friendly Amenities
Basic tools, floor pump, and local route knowledge
Recovery Comfort
Premium mattresses, private baths, and 40 acres to stretch your legs
Plan Your Delta Ride
Whether you're here for an event, exploring the Delta Heritage Trail, or seeking new gravel, we'd love to host your adventure.