Not only do we run an international bike tour business, but we also own and operate two premiere bicycle stores – www.LasVegasCyclery.com and www.MoabCyclery.com. We have learned over the years that every cyclist is different and prefers different types of bikes for different types of terrain. That is why we offer the best bicycles for rent in the business. If for some reason you are not happy with the quality of your rental, we will refund the cost of your entire bike rental. If you are bringing your bike with you, check with your airline’s baggage policy in advance and be sure to pack your bike accordingly. If you are shipping your bike to your destination, confirm the address with our office and allow enough time for your bike to arrive. We’re happy to help you ship your bike. Whatever you need to get the most out of your tour, we are here to make it happen.
Overview
At Hot Springs National Park, we soak up our nation’s first federal preserve: established by president Andrew Jackson a full 40-years before Yellowstone became our first national park. At the nearby 100-year old Ohio Club, we enjoy a smart cocktail in the jazz-blues club where Al Jolson and Mae West headlined.
Though the draw has always been the healing, rejuvenating waters—143-degree thermal—trust our gut, Memphis has nothing on Hot Springs. From Stubby’s to the iconic McClard’s (Bill Clinton’s favorite BBQ joint), we come away with a great regional taste served up graciously by the area’s famous pitmasters.
Day 1-2: Meet in Little Rock, (pop. 200,000) Arkansas’ capital. Shuttle 50-miles southwest to equally historic and colorful Hot Springs National Park: the only national park set within a city. Nicknamed “the American spa”, Hot Springs is home to some powerhouse personalities in BBQ cuisine, known as pitmasters. But that’s not to slight 90-year old, family-owned McClard’s Bar-B-Q, celebrated from cable TV to newspapers, splashy travel magazines to culinary hardcovers. Hickory smoke to titanium spokes, the area’s also come to be known as the cycling hub of The South, hosting a burgeoning number of bike races and CycloCross events. Our first stage follows the Hot Springs Loop, and over the Clinton Bridge, arcing in and around the 2753-ft Ouachita Mountains. (Stretching from western Arkansas into southeast Oklahoma, the Ouachita’s ultimately join the Appalachians.) Plying this razorback route, a state scenic highway, we roll up to a local creamery, savoring small-batch ice cream. As we close out the day, the theme becomes tiny bubbles. First, we rest legs in grand Southern style. Proud to call itself “completely out of time and place,” Bathhouse Row is an Arkansas treasure: a stretch of spas built atop 47 natural springs that became the onetime haunt of Al Capone, Frank Costello and Lucky Luciano. From a massage at one of the landmark bathhouses, we settle in to the Superior Bathhouse Brewery. Not only the first brewery established within a national park, Superior’s brewmasters are pioneers: the first to turn 144-degree thermal spring water into a variety of craft beers. Day Two/Act One unfolds on the Four Lakes Loop. From Hot Springs, the day’s stage sweeps towards Delight (pop. 279), hometown of The Rhinestone Cowboy, Glen Campbell; as well as the World Championship Squirrel Cook-off. We’ll base in Delight for the evening, but the day’s ride continues onto Lake Hamilton: the first of the aforementioned lakes. On State Scenic Route 7, the stage progresses toward 13,800-acre DeGray Lake Resort State Park. Set amidst the densely wooded foothills of the Ouachitas, DeGray is dialed: from golf course to marina, a wonderfully secluded shoreline where the trees finally give way, not to mention a handsome restaurant and lounge. Like a compact version of Lake of the Ozarks, its crystal blue waters provide standout Largemouth bass habitat; while interpretive guides lead floating tours to view Bald eagles.
Day 3-4: The day’s opening stage leaves Delight for Glenwood (pop. 2100), 30-miles west of Hot Springs. This stage is a gem, in all senses. While the approach to Crater of Diamonds State Park is supremely easygoing, don’t be surprised if diamond madness sets in once you enter the 911-acre preserve. But hey: no pressure, no diamonds. The only aboveground mine in the world where a visitor can sift a field for diamonds… and keep what you find, Crater of Diamonds gave up the fifth largest ever but a few years ago. After a good rain, a young lady visiting from Colorado found a 4.64-carat Esperanza diamond. From this field of dreams, our stage wends its way to Daisy State Park. Set in the Ouachitas, 7,000-acre Daisy State Park edges not only Lake Greeson, but also the Little Missouri wild and scenic river. A rocky-bottom mountain river, the Little Missouri flows for 147-miles through narrow, forested canyons. Come spring and summer, this stretch comes to life with float groups and fly fisherman. Day Four unfolds at Hot Springs Village. This stage, the longest, if not the prettiest leg passes through Lake Ouachita State Park; east, along the lake’s north side. En route, our tight and friendly peloton enters the quaint town of Mount Ida. Gateway to the 1.6-million acre Ouachita National Forest, Mount Ida cuts a cute figure: primarily as a thriving arts colony, and figuratively, as “the quartz crystal capital of the world”. After a stop at a local diner, we surge toward the town of Story. The day ends at the Los Lagos Hotel, an all-inclusive 26,000-acre timeshare resort 20-miles from Hot Springs National Park. Decompress with a hike or horseshoe.
Day 5: The day’s stage begins at Hot Springs Village; then surges to Hot Springs National Park. Our sure shot view-finding route wraps around the east side of Lake Ouachita, into Mountain Pine, (pop. 770), a 1920s company town built by Dierks Lumbar and Coal. (The mill closed and was carted away some 12-years ago.) The day’s final stage circles back to Hot Springs National Park.
A wonderful distilling of rich Americana and dazzling Southeast backcountry, our Hot Springs/Four Lakes Road Bike tour represents a superb fit for the cyclist keen for miles, matched by equally big slices of down-home flavor, color, history, and yes… quirks. “Snow cream with your possum pie?”
Lodging
Accommodations may vary depending on your departure date. Call us at 1.800.596.2953 for more details.Night 1: The Waters | Hot Springs, AR
340 Central Avenue
Hot Springs, AR 71901
“The Waters Ascend Hotel in Hot Springs Arkansas is absolutely beautiful!!! This newly renovated boutique hotel is light, bright & oozing of contemporary design with very comfortable & luxurious accommodation!!! The entire staff from valet, front desk & restaurant are exceptional & go above & beyond!!! The hotel is located on Central Avenue, right in the heart of downtown & a very short walking distance to all the shops, restaurants Convention Centre & a very short drive to Oaklawn Casino. Moreover, the
hotel has a beautiful walking trail accessible from the 3rd floor terrace. Breakfast is also good Highly recommend Waters hotel & we are looking forward to returning with more friends & family!!! ” – Mira
Night 2: Parker Creek Bend Cabins | Murfreesboro, AR
89 Parker Creek Road
Murfreesboro, AR 71958
Parker Creek Bend Cabins is located in Murfreesboro. It has free WiFi, barbecue facilities and a restaurant. The vacation home is located on the ground floor and comes with 2 bedrooms, a TV and a fully equipped kitchen that provides guests with a dishwasher, a microwave, a washing machine, a fridge and a stovetop.
“The cabin was perfectly appointed with everything we could have needed for a long weekend, and fit our little family perfectly. The property is beautiful, even the road to the property is very scenic. The Veteran manager/owner was more than helpful, and very informative about the area and the cabin itself. Both the master and the guest bed are super comfortable, and our son loved having his own little loft to himself. The WiFi is fast and reliable, as is the satellite tv. And try the tap water! I know, it’s not something people usually look for any more, but the water out of the tap is cold, clean, and delicious. I would kill for water like that in my neighborhood. 11/10, would stay again!” – Aaron
Night 3: Glenwood Country Club | Glenwood, AR
584 Highway 70 West
Glenwood, AR 71943
A private bath, small fridge, microwave and coffee machine is included in
each lodge. Towels and bed linens are provided. Glenwood Country Club lodge guests can dine at 19th Green, the on-site restaurant in the Club House. The property also offers a common area with a full kitchen and a seating area with fireplace.
“The seclusion/privacy allowed by the location on the private golf course road. Super quiet. LOVED the hot tub on the outdoor deck!!! Enjoyed reasonably priced adult beverages at the golf course club house bar (open until 6 PM). Got great recommendations for both evening meal and for a great breakfast at Glenwood restaurants.” – Bruce
Night 4: Hot Springs Village Inn | Hot Springs Village, AR
4429 North State Highway 7
Hot Springs Village, AR 71909
Hot Springs Village Inn has a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, garden, a
fitness center and shared lounge in Hot Springs Village. The property has
BBQ facilities. The rooms comes with air conditioning, a TV with satellite channels, a microwave, a coffee machine, a bath, a hair dryer and a desk. Featuring a private bathroom, rooms at the motel also feature free WiFi, while certain
rooms have a pool view. At Hot Springs Village Inn, rooms include a seating
area.
A vegetarian breakfast is available each morning at the accommodation. A variety of popular activities are available in the area around Hot Springs Village Inn, including hiking and fishing.
“This is a great property. The room was spotless and smelled clean and inviting. Staff was great. Friendly and knowledgeable. The breakfast was excellent. I’ll stay again in the months to come.” – Claudia
Activities
This Trip is Rated Fitness Levels 2-3While every Escape Adventure trip is designed to appeal to active adventure seekers, and in many cases, particular skill levels, there is always a different idea of what that exactly means. That is why we have designed the chart below to help make sure you join the proper tour. We know your pace may vary from one day to the next—and your traveling companions’ may differ as well. We present a range of mileage options on each tour as well as provide support vehicles as much as possible. That way you can take a break and do as little or as much as you would like each day.
| Day | Activity | Easy | Moderate | Seasoned | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Miles | Feet Gain | Miles | Feet Gain | Miles | Feet Gain | ||
| Day 1 | Road Biking | Easy: 18.1 Miles | 543 Ft. Gain | Moderate: 41 Miles | 1679 Ft. Gain | ||
| Day 2 | Road Biking | Easy: 31 Miles | 1466 Ft. Gain | Moderate: 57.63 Miles | 2390 Ft. Gain | ||
| Day 3 | Road Biking | Easy: 37.3 Miles | 1925 Ft. Gain | Moderate: 52 Miles | 2876 Ft. Gain | ||
| Day 4 | Road Biking | Easy: 24 Miles | 1669 Ft. Gain | Moderate: 43 Miles | 2809 Ft. Gain | Seasoned: 77 Miles | 4358 Ft. Gain |
| Day 5 | Road Biking | Easy: 20 Miles | 954 Ft. Gain | ||||
Find out more about Choosing a Tour.
All-Inclusive Prices
All internal land expenses and services are covered in the cost of your tour. This means from the time we pick you up at our meeting point, until we drop you back off to head home, all transportation, food preparation, meals (except where noted on itineraries), snacks, non-alcoholic beverages, group supplies and community gear (portable chairs, large awnings, coolers, utensils, etc.) are included. Backcountry permits, licenses, park fees, reservations, and accommodations (lodging) are also included, along with at least two professionally trained trip leaders, a mobile first aid and mechanic station, spare bikes, and a support vehicle(s). Trip price does not include airfare, lodging prior to trip start or bicycle rental and/or camping gear (if on a camping tour) unless otherwise noted on itinerary or website.
Renting Bicycles
Free With Every Tour
When you join an Escape Adventures tour in 2024, you will receive a FREE custom sublimated Limited Edition Jersey!
Road Bike Rentals
Make your trip as comfortable as possible on the body, as simple as possible for traveling, and hassle free on tour. By choosing to rent a bike from us, we will fit you with the newest, highest quality gear in the industry. Escape Adventures provides only high-end bicycles from Specialized. We replace our rental fleet each season to ensure all our bikes meet our high standards. All of our bikes are equipped with carbon fiber frames and disc brakes designed for a smooth, comfortable ride. For those who are touring with a companion who may not be as fit or need a little help up the hills, we now have e-bikes (electric pedal assist) available on select tours.
Nite Ize Wraptor Smart Phone Mount
NiteRider Lumina Micro 650 and Sabre 80 Combo
Specialized Roubaix Disc ($65/day)
Specialized has perfected the road bike. Ride confidently and comfortably for longer distances on any of our trips around the world. All of our bikes are equipped with the latest components and our 2019 models include disc brakes.
Specialized Sirrus Hybrid ($50/day)
Specialized hybrid bikes are the most comfortable bikes available. Our most popular bike for multi-sport and moderate road bike tours is the proven Sirrus. This bike is suited for a wide range of cyclists. This bike sits upright, is equipped with a very comfortable seat, and the gearing has a wide range of speeds.
Specialized Tero Hybrid E-Bike ($70/day)
For those of you who have always wanted to join a bike tour but feared your fitness would hold you or the group back, fear no more. Our incredible e-bike option allows you to do more, go twice as fast and far. The all new Specialized Tero has one goal and one goal only—to inspire you to get out, get moving, and to have some fun along the way. E-bike available on most casual and luxury inn trips for an additional price.
Specialized Turbo Creo E-Bike ($100/day)
Take a deep breath, turn on the power and enjoy a beautiful adventure on the all new Escape Adventure’s Electric Road Bike. The new road E-Bike from Escape Adventures now allows you to travel further distances and explore new areas. The pedal assisted technology also allows beginner and novice riders to join in on more challenging routes and terrain.
Why travel with Escape Adventures?
Our Commitment to You
For over 25 years, the hallmark of an Escape Adventures tour is personalized, hands-on service. Before, during, and after each trip. We are a company of honesty and integrity and we stand behind our product 100%. From the moment you learn of our trips, to the time you return home and start planning your next trip, we are here to bring you the best possible experience. From our Guaranteed Trip Departure Confirmation Policy, making sure your trip is never cancelled*, to our 100% Satisfaction Guarantee Policy, backing the unrivaled consistent quality of all our tours, our commitment to you is never compromised. * Scheduled Domestic trips only.
Our Commitment to the Environment
Our environmental commitment is second to none. We run our tours the same way we run our company, with an eye on the triple bottom line: People, Profit & Planet. At Escape Adventures, we elected to pursue a more comprehensive approach to actually reduce our carbon footprint, rather than just offset it. We overhauled our entire operation — from our vehicles, to our buildings, to our procedures — to become an outdoor industry leader in the charge to help our people and our planet.
Exceptional Service and Exceptional Guides
Leading tours naturally followed from our passion of exploring our favorite places with our friends. Our support staff includes our reservation team who is there to answer your questions about the tours, our service team who prepares your bike and gear for the tour, and our guide team – the ones who take you into the great outdoors. The highest level of responsibility, good nature, integrity, and dedication are standard traits of all those who work at Escape Adventures. We our proud of it and we think you should know it.
The Best Support Vehicles
Having custom-made vehicles allows us to take you to places few other outfitters can, or will go. Every Escape Adventures tour is accompanied by at least one support vehicle, trailer, and in some cases a second and third transfer van. After purchase, we custom engineer our trucks, vans, and trailers by our on-staff mechanic to meet the unique needs of different tours. For example, certain vehicles are specifically designed for the Canyonlands region of Utah, while others are designed for The Grand Tetons and Yellowstone. Each of our Trip Leaders is required to be trained in safe vehicle operation, 4X4 driving, and basic maintenance. Our experienced Trip Leaders make it look easy, transporting you and up to 12 guests, along with their bikes, fresh food, gear and plenty of drinking water to any location.
The Best Bicycles and Gear
Make your trip as comfortable as possible on the body, as simple as possible for traveling, and hassle-free on tour. By choosing to rent a bike from us, we will fit you with the newest, highest quality gear in the industry. Escape Adventures provides only high-end bicycles from Specialized. We replace our rental fleet each season to ensure all our rentals meet our high standards. All of our bikes are equipped carbon fiber frames and disc brakes designed for a smooth, comfortable ride. For those who are touring with a companion who may not be as fit or need a little help up the hills, we now have ebikes (electric pedal assist) available on select tours.
The Best Food
Our food isn’t just good, it’s good for you.
Food represents a big part of the Escape Adventures experience. On our inn tours most dinners and breakfasts unfold at local favorite restaurants. We also have energy snacks aboard our support vehicles. Don’t be surprised if your guides purchase fresh fruits and healthy snacks throughout the day while you’re enjoying a ride. They may just show up on the trail with a local treat! An increasing number of our guests are vegans or vegetarians, whom we not only accommodate but also pleasantly surprise. Should you possess special diet requirements and/or limitations, just let us know at sign-up. We’ll work with you to meet those critical needs.
Scheduled Departure Dates
May 2024
5/6 5/13 5/20 5/27June 2024
6/3August 2024
8/26September 2024
9/2 9/9 9/16 9/23Private & Custom Tours
The idea of taking your friends or family somewhere cool and amazing is actually pretty easy. Tell us what you’re thinking. We’ll make it happen.
Any trip in this catalog, any specific time frame, any group size, we can custom-fit if not comfortably accommodate. A Custom and Private Escape Adventures trip affords the ultimate bonding, or team-building experience for:
- Clubs and co-workers
- Family reunions
- Corporate retreats
- Friends
To shape a Custom or Private Trip, we begin a dialogue: first, to develop a group specific itinerary, tailored to respective abilities and preferred tempo. Next we schedule, bookmarking and working in your optimum or ideal getaway dates. Size-wise, we can build a multi-day trip for as few as two people, scaled up to as many as 30 plus. Contact us today to start the custom trip building process.
Rates on Private and Custom Departures:
All Private Escape Adventures Trips are priced in the structured method below. Some Custom tours are priced differently if they vary from the Classic Escape Adventures itinerary and price. In this situation we will provide your group with a custom itinerary and price.
- 10+ GUESTS Price as advertised*
- 8-9 GUESTS +$400 per person to trip price*
- 6-7 GUESTS +$900 per person to trip price*
- 4-5 GUESTS +$1,900 per person to trip price*
- 2-3 GUESTS +$2,500 per person to trip price*
* Pricing, availability and guest minimums are all subject to change at any time. Certain dates have a minimum number of guests required, please contact us for details. All private tours on The White Rim must meet a 13 person paid minimum. All private tours on The Maze must meet a 7 person paid minimum.
