Kessler Mountain Jam Returns to Test Riders on Fayetteville’s Toughest Trails

The gravel crunches, the cowbells come out, and the trails at Kessler Mountain get put to the test all over again. You roll up with mud already dried on your frame from the pre-ride, trading notes with other riders on which root section is going to cause the most chaos this year. Somewhere near the start line, you’re double-checking a chain that definitely should have gotten attention yesterday. This is what race day at Kessler looks like, and it’s back.

THE DEETS

📅 Sunday, July 19, 2026
🕑 Racing begins at 8 AM
📍 Kessler Regional Park, Fayetteville, AR
🎟️ Packet pickup Saturday, July 18, 2 to 5 PM | Sunday, July 19, 6:30 to 10 AM (no day-of registration)
🔗 More info | Registration

Fast Trails, Familiar Faces

Kessler Mountain Jam returns to south Fayetteville for another round of mountain bike racing on the trails you already know are technical in all the right places. The race is part of the Arkansas Mountain Bike Championship Series and is sanctioned by USA Cycling, so if you’re chasing series points, this one counts.

Categories run from beginner to elite, so you don’t need a race resume to line up. First-timers and podium regulars end up on the same start list, and that mix is part of what makes race day feel like a community event instead of a closed competition.

After You Cross the Line

Once you’re off the course, there’s food and drinks waiting, plus awards handed out throughout the day rather than saved for one big ceremony at the end. Chip timing keeps things accurate, and you can expect an event t-shirt as part of the deal.

Pack your grit along with your bike, and don’t forget a cowbell. Even if you’re not racing, the crowd noise is part of what makes Kessler Mountain Jam what it is.

Before You Head Out

All Sports Productions puts the race together alongside the local Kessler Mountain Jam team, and post-race food covers adults and youth racers alike. Review the schedule and check the website before you head to Fayetteville, since race weekend details tend to get refined as the date gets closer.