How We Began: Inspiration for the Arkansas Graveler began with the Arkansas Traveler, a historic song that pays homage to the days of yore and rambling through the countryside of Arkansas. We tweaked the name to represent a multi-day gravel ramble by bike and began planning a gravel route that would wind through challenging terrain in search of “the magic and beauty of the land”. And while Arkansas is rich with gravel roads, we knew an equal emphasis on “after the ride” - including outdoor activities, lively music, and communal meals - could define the Arkansas Graveler as so much more than a ride.

From the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville to Arkansas State University in Jonesboro, our First Edition in the summer of 2024 took gravel cyclists west to east across the rugged Ozark Mountains to the farm rich Arkansas Delta - highlighting Oark, Jasper, Marshall, Mountain View, and Cave City along the way. Our Second Edition, hosted in late spring of 2025, meandered through the Ouachita National Forest from Mena to Russellville - by way of Glenwood, Hot Springs, and Morrilton, Arkansas. The tradition continues in 2026 for our Third Edition with an all-new route and Host City selection.

Mission of the Arkansas Graveler: to celebrate the beauty and culture of the Natural State by providing an epic adventure for touring cyclists while creating economic opportunity for rural communities along the route.

Arkansas is home to diamonds, river valleys, natural springs, white-tailed deer, Walmart, and Bill Clinton — Johnny Cash was born here, and Hemingway wrote Farewell to Arms here. We have a rich heritage deep in our landscape and a folksy spirit deep in our souls. By emphasizing State Parks, Host City activation, and cultural experiences unique to the Arkansas, this event is well on its way to becoming the most iconic, off-road multi-day cycling event in the United States. We celebrate what makes our state one of the best…it’s RURAL. It’s outdoorsy. It’s the Natural State.

Event Production: The Arkansas Graveler is owned and operated by Ozark Foundation, a charitable organization focused on creating fun and enriching outdoor experiences across Arkansas that elevate the state as a better place to live, work, and play. The event is co-hosted by the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, and the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission.