Backroad Adventure Tracks

The Ozarks region is perhaps the most underrated adventure destination in the United States. We’ve all heard of the Ozarks, but most people don’t realize the magnitude of the mountains once you reach southwestern Missouri and Northwestern Arkansas. They’re real mountains! But unlike the Smoky Mountains, these hills are untamed. There is a strong backroading community here, and enough challenging roads and trails and trails to keep you busy for days.

On this route, you’ll start in the heart of the Ozarks at one of the coolest little general stores in the country. Right off the ‘BAT’ you’ll be riding through creek crossings, climbing mountains, and exploring seldom-seen areas of the Ozarks. Fuel up any time you can – the Ozarks can be fairly desolate. You’ll ride to and stay at the quirky town of Eureka Springs, and once up in Missouri you’ll see some of the largest natural springs in the U.S. Fire towers, single lane bridges, old mills – there’s plenty to keep this adventure interesting!

The OZ BAT is 85% gravel. Sometimes it’s almost harder to find pavement in the Ozarks than it is finding gravel roads. You’ll see a lot of playgrounds for Off-Roaders and Side-X-Sides – go have some fun yourself! By the end of the route, you’ll probably be tired of creek crossings and river crossings, with almost 100 marked on the track. And you read that right – River Crossings. Here’s your chance to play Oregon Trail in real life, and ford that river! Be cautious though – some of the crossings are VERY Deep!

We hope you enjoy the OZ BAT and all the Ozarks have to offer! Go ride the route, and give us your feedback!

Total Main Route Distance: 1,174 Miles
Time to Complete: 5-6 Days
Terrain: 15% Pavement, 70% Gravel, 15% Dirt, Creek bottoms, or other Off-Road
Challenges: Almost 100 creek and river crossings, Deep creek crossings, Several long & difficult rocky off-road sections, Moderate-to-Advanced hill climbs