Full Send in the Ozarks: The Leatherwood Gravity Challenge

Seven Trails, Ten Runs, Zero Excuses - Arkansas’ Premier Downhill Showdown

Prepare for a weekend where gravity is your best friend and the clock is your biggest enemy. The Leatherwood Gravity Challenge isn't just another race; it’s a high-octane pilgrimage to the Lake Leatherwood Gravity Project in Eureka Springs. Here, the legendary limestone of the Ozarks sets the stage for a masterclass in downhill mountain biking, featuring a relentless mix of technical rock gardens, massive gap jumps, and high-speed flow sections that demand total focus and a heavy dose of grit.

Beyond the tape, the event captures the soul of mountain bike culture. With on-site group camping and Saturday night festivities, the atmosphere vibrates with the shared adrenaline of local rippers and traveling pros alike. Whether you’re dialing in your lines during Saturday’s practice or pinning it through the Sunday finals, you’re part of an immersive weekend that celebrates the speed, style, and community of the Arkansas riding scene.

Event Overview

Location: Lake Leatherwood City Park, 1303 Co Rd 204, Eureka Springs, AR 72632
Registration: Online registration typically closes a few days before the event
Race Format: 10 total laps across 5 distinct stages (2 laps per stage), professionally timed by Loki Events
Camping: Family-friendly camping is available Saturday night at the Lake Leatherwood Park group campsite, featuring campfires and live music to "keep the stoke high" before race day

Course Description

The course utilizes the Lake Leatherwood Gravity Project's seven primary downhill lines, each approximately one mile long, launched from two stone platforms (North and South Hubs).

Sector	Difficulty	Terrain Key Notes
South Hub: Yowie Rocks (DH1)	Expert	Features the iconic and massive "Lilypad" feature and nail-biting rock chutes.
South Hub: OGre Run (DH2)	Advanced	The original downhill line of the region; mixes old-school singletrack with huge tabletops and drops.
North Hub: Cyclops Drops (DH7)	Expert	Contains one of the largest drops in Arkansas and mandatory technical "gnar" at the finish.
North Hub: Shreddy Yeti (DH6)	Beginner	A "must-ride" flow trail featuring big berms, tabletops, and minor rocky sections.
North Hub: Swamp Stalker	Intermediate	Designed for high speed; a fast, winding trail for those seeking their "warp speed badge".
Secret Stage	Technical	A special, race day only stage addition revealed specifically for the challenge to test handling and speed.

A Quick Look at Every Trail at the Leatherwood Gravity Challenge

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the technical difficulty of the trails at the Leatherwood Gravity Challenge?

This event is designed for riders who thrive on high-adrenaline, technical terrain. Expect steep, rocky descents, natural rock gardens, and significant features that demand advanced bike handling skills to navigate safely.

Are the trails suitable for beginner mountain bikers?

The Leatherwood Gravity Challenge is geared toward intermediate to expert riders comfortable with black and double-black diamond gravity lines. Beginners should assess their comfort level with technical drops and high-speed, rugged trail sections before registering.

How does the shuttle service work on race day?

We partner with The Gravity Feed to provide dedicated shuttle service, ensuring you get back to the top of the mountain efficiently. This allows you to conserve your energy for the descent and focus entirely on your run.

What kind of mountain bike gear is recommended for this terrain?

A full-suspension mountain bike is highly recommended to handle the Ozark rock and technical features. We strongly suggest wearing full-face helmets, knee pads, and back protection to stay safe on these aggressive gravity trails.

Will there be a special trail section only available during the event?

Yes, the course includes an exclusive "race day only" stage that is not open to the public during normal operations. This section is specifically designed to challenge even the most seasoned pros with unique features and technical lines.

Where should spectators go to watch the action?

Spectators are encouraged to head to designated viewing areas near the base of the trails to catch the most thrilling sections of the descent. Check the event website for the latest details on spectator access points and parking instructions at Lake Leatherwood City Park.

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Leatherwood Gravity Challenge