The Terrific 10: Mountain Biking at Arcadia Lake 

The Oklahoma Mountain Bike Association (OMBA) invites riders to get out on the Dam Trails. No, that’s not a typo. It’s a reference to the 10 new miles of mountain biking trails they’ve created on the east side of Arcadia Lake. 

Formed in 1996 to promote mountain biking in Oklahoma, the group is largely responsible for the creation and maintenance of trails across the state, including prime spots like Lake Stanley Draper, Bluff Creek Park, and the 29 miles of trails winding through the woods of Arcadia Lake. 

“Arcadia Lake is one of the many trails the OMBA maintains,” said board member, Catherine Sharp. “It went from being about 18 miles of trails to now 29 miles, with the recent addition on the east side of the lake, known as the ‘Dam Trails.’” 

The Dam Trails are the newest and most challenging trails at Arcadia, including a variety of “features” which are natural or man-made structures that add interest and a bit of adrenaline. Features may include rock formations, drops, jumps, half-pipes, or stretches of boardwalk structures. 

The new addition is also home to “Postmortem Loop,” a winding loop through the trees that includes a fast and flowing half-mile downhill stretch with plenty of challenges – a rarity in the flat plains of central Oklahoma. 

While portions of the new trails are built for intermediate or advanced riders, the barrier to entry is low when it comes to experience and cost. “All you really need to start is a bike and a helmet. It’s a sport that anyone who can ride a bike can enjoy,” Catherine said. And she, along with many of the OMBA board members, is always willing to introduce a new rider to the sport. 

Catherine finds that once a new rider tries the sport, it “just clicks.” As a 65-year-old cyclist, she encounters many misconceptions about the sport that she is eager to dispel. “Mountain biking is not all rocky cliffs, high speed, and wild jumps,” she said. “We have grandparents out here putting in miles with their grandchildren, and a variety of trails to accommodate any skill level.” 

For these reasons, Catherine believes mountain biking to be an ideal pastime for families looking for shared interests or new ways to experience nature. “It’s a chance to get outdoors with a more adrenalized appeal than perhaps jogging or hiking.” 

Plus, many find that riding offers a form of peace. “The park is beautiful, and you’d be amazed at the absolute quiet you experience out there. And with the shelter of the trees, you aren’t limited by extreme temperatures, hot or cold.” 

On April 28, Arcadia will host “The Dam Race” as part of the 2024 Tour De Dirt series. Catherine says this is the perfect opportunity for Edmond families to acquaint themselves with the sport, as spectators or even volunteers. Keep tabs on the trail riders on Facebook @OKEarthBike or online at rideomba.org.