The "Section 2 North" map consists of two loops: the 434-mile central loop, beginning and ending at Lake Dardanelle State Park in Russellville, and the 238-mile northwest loop, beginning and ending at the Bentonville town square.
(There are 16 miles of shared route between the two loops.) Compared to the Section 1 South route, the northern loops offer more elevation gain and generally more rural areas of outstanding natural beauty.
Highlights include the unique geological formations of the Ozark National Forest, the Buffalo River and State Park, and the well-marked and smooth Razorback Greenway connecting the urban areas of Fayetteville and Bentonville.