Local, state, and federal leaders have signed a U.S. Forest Service special-use permit authorizing construction of The Trails at Mena, a first-of-its-kind, lift-served mountain bike and adventure park. Phase I includes ~18–20 miles of professionally designed downhill trails with ~1,200 ft of elevation drop, beginner-to-expert lines, and a high-speed quad chairlift—ultimately connecting downtown Mena with Queen Wilhelmina State Park. Partners include Arkansas State Parks, the U.S. Forest Service, Arkansas Parks & Recreation Foundation, and the City of Mena.
Why it matters: the project positions Mena as a national outdoor destination while tying into iconic routes like the Ouachita National Recreation Trail and broader Ouachita Mountain riding. Construction follows years of planning, environmental review, and public input.
Learn more / sources: Arkansas State Parks announcement, project overview, and USFS materials.
