The trail surface is very smooth right now - we rode from Barton to Lakeview (20 miles round trip) on gravel/cross bikes with our children. The gravel is small and well groomed, and most road bike riders would not have problems with it; it is definitely suitable for hybrids. The visitors center is easy to find, has ample parking, and has clean bathrooms. Almost all road crossings are over low traffic minor dirt roads or driveways, so we did not have to stop for traffic while riding. The trail is shaded, in parts by very large, old trees. The state parks have secured a large matching grant from the Walton Foundation and will have all 84 miles complete within five years. Nearby Mississippi River State Park has a lovely RV campground and more roads to explore by bike.

We "put in" at the Helena Junction trailhead and had to turn around at Barton - only 2 miles into our ride. When we read that the trail was crushed rock and that it was in excellent condition we thought that we'd see a Katy Trail type of surface ("The Katy" is one of our faves).

Such is not the case. The crushed limestone that we encountered was #57 or #5. We expected #8.

It was a bummer that we had to abort our ride, especially after having driven for two hours to get there. It was a beautiful day, and the trail scenery is spectacular.

Just do not attempt this unless you are prepared for a trail bike experience.

My wife and I rode this trail a week ago - started in Watson and finished in the very sleep town of Arkansas City. First 9 miles were shaded with trees on both sides. Trail of crushed limestone in excellent shape. Final 14 miles were paved road along the top of the Mississippi river levee. Amazing views from top of the levee. You can see for miles across forests, lakes, and fields of soybeans and corn. Town of Arkansas City is a shadow of its former heyday before the 1927 floods. Lots of history there. Will do this ride again.

What a great trail to unwind. No difficult passages. Well shaded and surface is smooth.

I rode from Lexa to Elaine today (~21 miles) on a hybrid in 90-95 degree heat. Overall condition of the trail is excellent, however, the first 2 miles (Lexa to Barton) were a little rough, with some loose stones. Those first two miles probably need a little grooming / reconditioning. First 14 miles of the trail (Lexa to Lake View) is generally shady which helps a LOT. Very pretty. The last 7 miles between Lake View and Elaine has very little shade, running between massive fields of rice, soybeans, and corn. These fields are actually quite scenic, and was a nice change from just the trail surrounded by trees. I'll be doing this trail again. Excellent.

Smooth trail. Not too many road crossings. Lovely scenery.

I can’t wait to take this all the way down to the Mississippi River when done!!!

great easy ride ... nice varying views .woods, commerce, old remnants ... nice it's all paved.nice it has a spot to cross heavy traffic...

What an awesome experience on the Delta Heritage Trail !! This was our first "Rails to Trails" experience ever. The state park folks were oh so helpful and informative!! Riding the trail, the same as the 'Delta Eagle" did as a passenger train in years gone by and looking down at the trail and seeing bits of the old railroad timbers was great ! We had a late start and just managed a little over 12 miles ' but we'll be back !! Loved it and looking forward to exploring more Rails to Trails !!