OUR ADVENTURE ABOARD THE OZ TRAILS HELI
When it comes to world-class cycling destinations, Bentonville, AR has quickly earned its place on the global stage. Known as the “Mountain Biking Capital of the World,” Bentonville boasts an ever-growing network of bike trails, bike parks, and outdoor adventure opportunities that attract riders from every corner of the globe. Recently, Dialed Action Sports had the unique opportunity to experience Bentonville in an entirely new way—by air.
During a recent U.S. visit on behalf of Dialed Action Sports, European Trials Champion and Guinness World Record Holder Andrei Burton took to the skies aboard the OZ Trails Heli, exploring Bentonville’s incredible landscapes, cycling destinations, and trail systems from above. Along for the ride was Dialed Action’s Booking Manager, Jason “Schwinny” Schwinabart.
What followed was nothing short of the adventure of a lifetime.
The Premier Way to Explore Bentonville: OZ Trails Heli
Based out of Legends Air Center Bentonville at Thaden Field, the OZ Trails Heli charter service is the premier aerial transportation option in Northwest Arkansas. More than just a scenic helicopter ride, this one-of-a-kind experience partners with top outdoor recreation providers to give adventurers seamless access to some of the region’s most exciting activities and breathtaking locations.
From dense forests and flowy singletrack to cutting-edge bike parks, the OZ Trails network is in a class of its own. Checking out the vast Bentonville bike trails on two wheels might take weeks—but thanks to OZ Trails Heli, visiting riders can survey the terrain from above and then drop directly into their favorite zones with ease.
Meet the Pilot: Stan Kartes
The day’s adventure was made possible by Stan Kartes, a seasoned helicopter pilot with more than two decades of diverse aviation experience. Stan’s career has taken him across four continents, from the wild landscapes of Borneo to the rugged expanse of the Alaskan Arctic. His resume includes search and rescue missions, wildfire suppression, construction lifts, aerial surveys, and scenic tours—a testament to his unmatched skill in the air.
Now calling Bentonville, Arkansas home, Stan serves as an Instructor and Check Airman, training and evaluating pilots for oil and gas operations in the Gulf of Mexico. He’s also the Chief Pilot for Summit Aviation LLC, managing charter operations while flying for OZ Trails Heli—a dream job if we’ve ever heard of one!
Beyond his aviation expertise, Stan is also an avid mountain biker and family man, embodying the adventurous spirit that makes Bentonville such a unique hub for outdoor recreation. With his deep understanding of both the skies and the trails, Stan is the perfect guide for a cycling legend like Andrei Burton.
Andrei Burton Takes on Bentonville
For Andrei Burton, the OZ Trails Heli flight was more than just sightseeing—it was a chance to dive straight into the heart of Bentonville’s most iconic riding zones. Touching down in several prime spots across the OZ Trails network, Andrei wasted no time showing why he is one of the best trials riders in the world.
Among the highlights of his trip was a visit to the Bentonville Bike Fest site, where the recent Trials World Round event had taken place. Navigating enormous obstacles that would intimidate even the most seasoned rider, Andrei flowed through the features with ease, combining precision, power, and creativity in a way that left onlookers in awe.
Thank You to the OZ Trails Heli Team!
Dialed Action Sports and Andrei Burton extend their gratitude to Stan Kartes and the entire OZ Trails Heli team for making this extraordinary experience possible. Bentonville, Arkansas is already a bucket-list destination for riders worldwide, but thanks to OZ Trails Heli, it’s now possible to explore the area in a way that truly takes adventure to new heights.
Why Bentonville Should Be on Every Rider’s Bucket List
Whether you’re a professional athlete like Andrei Burton or a weekend warrior, Bentonville, AR offers something for you. With its expansive mountain biking trail network, welcoming community, and innovative services like OZ Trails Heli, it’s no surprise that riders of all ability levels keep coming back for more.
From the ground and the air, Bentonville bike trails deliver an unforgettable experience. If you’re searching for a truly unique Northwest Arkansas adventure, look no further—Bentonville should be on every rider’s bucket list.
