Peel Museum
Compton Gardens
Coler
Osage Park
The Quiver
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Fall at Coler: A Visitor’s Guide

When the leaves start turning and the air gets crisp, Coler Mountain Bike Preserve becomes one of the best places to enjoy fall in Northwest Arkansas. Whether you’re looking to ride, walk, camp, relax with a coffee, or bring the kids for a nature-filled day, Coler has something for everyone. Here’s how to plan your perfect fall visit.

Where to Start

Coler is located at 2500 NW 3rd Street in Bentonville. It’s free to visit and open daily from sunrise until 11 PM. The preserve offers more than 20 miles of biking and walking trails with something for every skill level.

There are multiple parking lots depending on where you want to start your adventure. The Grove is a popular central lot but other access points work great too. Trails are well-marked and maps are available online or at the trailheads.

Biking in the Fall

The cooler weather and colorful scenery make fall one of the best times to ride. You’ll find everything from beginner-friendly loops like Family Flow to more technical features like Rock Solid and Drop the Hammer. If you’re up for a challenge, start at The Hub and pick your downhill line. E-bikes are welcome on designated trails if you’re looking for an easier climb.

Walking & Exploring

If biking isn’t your thing, no problem. Coler is a great spot for walking, too. The Applegate greenway trail is a wide, paved path that winds through the preserve. It’s perfect for strollers, scooters, and a relaxed walk. There are also plenty of soft surface trails that walkers can enjoy. Just be mindful of bikers and avoid downhill-only trails.

Along the way, you’ll see art sculptures, educational signage, bridges, streams, open meadows, and forest views. It’s a great place to stretch your legs and take in the changing leaves.

Coffee Break at Airship

Tucked into the woods, Airship Coffee is one of the most unique coffee stops you’ll find anywhere. You can’t drive there so plan to walk or bike in. The café is all open-air and surrounded by trees. Grab a latte, find a swing or rooftop seat, and take a moment to just enjoy the vibe. Airship is open from 8 AM to 5:30 PM most days.

Camping at Coler

Want to stay overnight? Coler offers a unique campground experience with raised tent platforms, clean bathrooms, hot showers, and fire pits. It’s tucked into the preserve so you can ride straight from your tent. Bring warm layers and check sunset times. It gets dark early and the forest cools down quickly at night.

Check out our Fall Camping at Coler Campground guide here.

Kid-Friendly Ideas

Coler is a great place for kids to explore. Here are some simple ways to make it fun:

  • Bring paper and crayons for leaf rubbings
  • Create a scavenger hunt with items like red leaves, smooth rocks, or trail signs
  • Take a quiet sound walk and see what you can hear
  • Look for reflections in the stream or throw leaves in and watch them float
  • Try a photo challenge. Let kids take pictures of their favorite finds
Download scavenger hunt

Catch You at Coler

Fall is a perfect time to slow down and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you come for an hour or a weekend, Coler has plenty to offer. We hope you make time to visit soon.