22
terrain November/December 2020
destination
NATURAL BORN THRILLER
Northwest Arkansas is surging, with Fayetteville at its heart.
By Brad Kovach
I
It's hard to pick up an outdoor magazine these days without reading about Northwest Arkansas and its growing portfolio of world- class trails and nature-themed venues. The beautiful and captivating region spreads across four counties and 10 destination cities, including current mountain biking hot spot Bentonville, and is blessed with timbered hills, sparkling lakes and rivers, and seemingly countless ways to play and have adventures outside. But long before NWA, as in-the-know enthusiasts call it, hit the map as a self-aware outdoor hub, Fayetteville was already serving as a center of leisure, entertainment, and culture. The state's third largest city has just over 70,000 residents and is home to the University of Arkansas, founded in 1871. Its historic downtown square and Dickson Street are must- sees, famed for their culinary and artistic offerings. George's Majestic Lounge, the oldest and longest-running live music venue in Arkansas, continues to showcase local and nationally recognized acts here. The Fayetteville Ale Trail features 15 stops, with a corresponding Ale Trail Passport, and an eclectic mix of shopping blends everything from kitschy flea markets and neighborhood boutiques to national favorites. Fayetteville even has its own homegrown outdoor brand and store, Fayettechill, which has been making "goods for the woods" since 2009, using local artists and recycled polyester, hemp, and organic cotton. The Fayetteville Farmers' Market, open year-round, likewise is committed to fresh produce and crafts for a healthier, greener community. We dropped in recently to explore the outdoor recreation opportunities that have become the backbone of tourism in the region. Fayetteville boasts more than
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP:
Kessler Mountain downhill; Inside Fayettechill; Fayetteville Farmer's Market; Downtown Fayetteville.
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