Looking to build or refresh a trail system in the Natural State? These five companies bring serious dirt cred to the table.
The State of Trail Building in Arkansas
Arkansas has become a mountain biking destination, with Bentonville and the Ozarks drawing riders from across the country. That demand has fueled a wave of professional trail builders who specialize in soft-surface, bike-specific trails. From downhill race tracks to flowy singletrack, these companies are shaping the landscape for both recreational and competitive riders. Each brings a unique blend of experience, philosophy, and service offerings to the table.
How We Evaluated These Trail Builders
We looked at each company's service scope, from design and construction to maintenance and custom fabrication. We also considered their local presence and understanding of Arkansas terrain, as well as their track record with projects that range from private parks to public systems. Pricing clarity and the ability to handle projects of different scales also factored into our assessment. Each company stood out in its own way, whether through deep racing roots, national reach, or a focus on community engagement.
Here's a quick snapshot of the five trail builders we're highlighting, with their key focus areas and what makes them stand out.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| Dirt Tek Trails | Nationally recognized expertise and large-scale projects |
| HOME | Gradienttrails | Local expertise and a full range of services from design to custom features |
| Rock Solid Trail Contracting | Large teams and in-house design and fabrication for destination-worthy trails |
| Rogue Trails | Sustainable design and community-focused projects |
| Progressive Trail Design | Versatile trail and outdoor recreation development |
The Deep Dive: Meet the Builders
#1 Dirt Tek Trails
A screenshot of the Dirt Tek Trails website.
Dirt Tek Trails, founded in 2019 by Brandon Arce and Candice Kozark, has quickly become a nationally recognized leader in trail design and construction. With over 15 years of hands-on experience, Brandon brings a deep understanding of terrain dynamics and hydrology, ensuring trails that ride right and last. The company handles everything from large-scale gravity bike parks to rugged backcountry systems, with a focus on precision and quality. Their team guides clients through every phase, from concept to construction, making them a solid choice for complex projects. If you're looking for a builder with a proven track record and a passion for the craft, Dirt Tek is a strong contender.
#2 HOME | Gradienttrails
A screenshot of the Gradient Trails website.
Gradient Trails LLC, based in northwestern Arkansas, specializes in designing, constructing, and maintaining soft-surface mountain bike trails. Their roots in international Enduro racing and over 10 years of experience shine through in their work, which includes downhill, enduro, and cross-country tracks. They've built trails used in the Southern Enduro Tour and Arkansas Enduro Series, proving their ability to challenge pros while still catering to leisure riders. Beyond construction, they offer trail maintenance, system design, and custom fabrication, making them a versatile partner for any trail project. Their philosophy is to optimize the experience for every level of rider, from beginner to expert.
#3 Rock Solid Trail Contracting
A screenshot of the Rock Solid Trail Contracting website.
Rock Solid Trail Contracting, with bases in Copper Harbor, Michigan, and Bentonville, Arkansas, has been building trails since 2014. They've constructed hundreds of miles of trails across the US, focusing on sustainability and durability. Their team of over 70 includes skilled build crews and an in-house design department, allowing them to handle projects from concept to reality. They also offer custom feature fabrication, creating everything from simple bridges to signature artistic elements. If you want a trail system that stands the test of time and blends seamlessly with the landscape, Rock Solid is a reliable choice.
#4 Rogue Trails
A screenshot of the Rogue Trails website.
Rogue Trails, founded in 2017 and based in Rogers, Arkansas, is committed to designing, building, and sustaining world-class trail systems. They've worked in eight states, building over 120 miles of trail and designing more than 500 miles. Their approach emphasizes environmentally conscious design, minimally impactful construction, and lasting community engagement. They've completed projects for notable clients like the Arkansas Parks and Recreation Foundation, earning praise for their craftsmanship. If you're looking for a builder that values sustainability and community, Rogue Trails is a great fit.
#5 Progressive Trail Design
A screenshot of the Progressive Trail Design website.
Progressive Trail Design (PTD) is a trail building and outdoor recreation development company that specializes in all types of soft-surface trails and mountain bike parks. Their unified vision of Design-Build-Ride allows them to efficiently address the needs of users, land managers, and the unique qualities of each piece of land. They are a member of the Professional Trail Builders Association, adding a layer of credibility. PTD handles everything from intimate singletrack to trailhead facilities, offering cost-effective solutions. If you're after a company that can tackle a broad spectrum of trail-related projects, PTD is worth considering.
How to Choose the Right Trail Builder for Your Project
Start by defining the type of trail you want—downhill, cross-country, or a mix—and the experience level of your target riders. Consider the scale of your project: some builders excel at large-scale systems, while others are better suited for smaller, custom builds. Look for a company with local experience, as they'll understand the terrain and climate challenges specific to Arkansas. Don't overlook the importance of maintenance and custom fabrication services, which can extend the life and fun of your trails. Finally, check their portfolio and talk to past clients to gauge their reliability and craftsmanship.
Streamlining Your Trail Project with Automation
While trail building is hands-on, you can automate parts of the planning and management process. Use project management tools like Trello or Asana to track milestones, budgets, and communication with your chosen builder. For design, consider using GIS software or trail planning apps to map out routes and share them with your builder. Automate follow-ups and documentation with CRM tools to keep everything organized. This way, you can focus on the creative side while the logistics run smoothly.
The Bottom Line on Arkansas Trail Builders
Arkansas is lucky to have a deep bench of talented trail builders, each with its own strengths. Whether you're a land manager looking to create a destination-worthy system or a private landowner wanting a personal bike park, there's a builder here for you. Gradient Trails stands out for its local roots and full-service approach, making it a solid choice for many projects. But don't overlook the others—Dirt Tek's national reputation, Rock Solid's scale, Rogue's community focus, and PTD's versatility all bring something unique. Take your time, do your research, and you'll find the perfect partner to bring your trail vision to life.