The Trail
Nearest Town with Accommodations: North Little Rock / Little Rock
Location: Burns Park is actually located in North Little Rock on the East banks of the Arkansas River. To get there get on I-40 and take it to the West Military Drive / Championship Drive (exit number 150). Go north on West Military Drive and take the second right onto Joe Poch Road. Follow Joe Poch through the Park, you will pass some baseball fields and then cross over I-40. After crossing over I-40 watch to your left for a picnic area, you can park there and access the trail from this location.
Type: Single track / loops.
Distance: About 7 miles doing all loops.
Summary: Most of this trail is single track that weaves in and out of the woods. As with most trails in this area there are the various rocks and roots to contend with. The trail is well laid out in the park with plenty of bail out points. There are a few technical areas that require some good handling skills. For the most part this trail is fast, tight and twisty. There are a couple of climbs that are a little steep, one in particular is located on the south side of the trail after crossing Arlene Laman Road. This little climb can be loose and is not to difficult if going in a clockwise direction but if you hit it from a counter clockwise direction it will give you a really good workout, of course it makes for a great downhill if coming from the opposite direction. At the top of this hill is a vista that overlooks the park and the Arkansas River. The trail is always a treat to ride. The loop that is located to the Northwest is a shared use trail with equestrians. This loop is a lot flatter and gentler of a ride, just watch out for horses. The entire trail is shared with hikers so be nice and don't run over anyone out there. Part of the trail was built by the local Boy Scout Club.
Recommended Route: Park at the picnic area and head either direction. To me the best route is to do it in a clockwise direction which I think is the way that most people do it.
When to ride: Any time is good, the trail is normally in good shape all year.
Rating: This trail is nice for almost all riders. The steep climbs might be a little to much for some new beginners and novice, if so they can always ride on the horse trails to the north. The advanced and intermediate riders should enjoy this trail for its steep little climbs and the flow of the trail, great to get a good little workout in.
Other recommended trails in the area: Camp Robinson