Race Lore

Joe Martin

Ride the classic Joe Martin amateur course from Fayetteville through Greenland, over The Wall on Hogeye Road, through Strickler, and back to Baum-Walker Stadium.

Joe Martin Stage Race route scenery.
Core Loop 22.9 mi
Core Elevation 1,772 ft
Surface Road
Suggested Direction Clockwise

About Joe Martin

This route follows a full lap of the classic amateur course used by the Joe Martin Stage Race, one of Fayetteville’s defining races (RIP).

Leaving Baum-Walker Stadium, riders head south on Highway 265 through the West Fork valley before turning onto Hogeye Road and tackling The Wall, the course’s famous climb.

From the top, the route continues onto Highway 170 across the rugged ridges and hollows of the Boston Mountains, passing through Strickler before dropping back toward the valley.

Final miles flatten out through Greenland and return north toward Fayetteville, recreating the roads, terrain, and race lore that shaped generations of Joe Martin competitors.

Notes

  • Refueling: The Hogeye Mall is a small store on 265 between Hell's Kitchen and Fayetteville.
  • "The Wall": It's not as big as it sounds, but the climb on 156 does signal the beginning of about seven miles of uphill travel.
  • Strickler descent: The descent into Strickler includes a very sharp right-hand turn that can really sneak up on you after turning off 170. Use caution.

Note: Routes are provided for planning purposes. Road conditions, traffic and access can change. Ride within your abilities and verify current conditions before leaving.

On the Route