About this Event
In the spirit of gravel: a self-supported ride series exploring “the other” Pisgah National Forest around Table Rock Mountain and Wilson Creek. It’s not a race—intended as a hard or good-vibes training ride depending on what you’re looking for, with an edge… but we all know better. Great ride. Good food. Good times after.
Front-Loaded Fun
Presented by Wildhaven Farm & Forest Retreat, Headquarters Bike + Outdoors, and Overmountain Cycles.
A self-supported, two-part gravel ride series based out of Wildhaven Farm & Forest Retreat in Jonas Ridge, NC. The 46-mile loop features a gravel descent off Table Rock Road, scenic gravel along Brown Mountain Beach, and a final punch up Pineola that leaves a mark. Same course each time. No podium (maybe) - just community, effort, and post-ride beer (n.a. beer available too) and pizza/food.
The course is challenging at all paces but manageable for low-intermediate to advanced fitness levels. The fastest riders may finish in around 3 hours, while for others it may take closer to 6. There will be a 3-mile neutral rollout from the farm until the turn onto Gingercake Road to ensure all riders navigate the busy road section safely. A challenge award will be given to the first rider to finish under 3 hours.
It’s not a race. But… we all know better!
2026 Ride Details
Dates:
Saturday, May 16, 2026
Saturday, September 19, 2026
Location: Wildhaven Farm & Forest Retreat
Address: 9696 NC Hwy 181, Newland, NC 28657
( only — Apple Maps and Waze often misdirect)
Entry Fee: $65 per event or $102 for both (includes mechanical aid station at the bottom of Table Rock Road, fully stocked aid station at the bottom of Pineola Road, plus post-ride beer/drinks and food).
Event Schedule
Friday
5:00 PM – 10:00 PM — Sign-in open for those staying with us or nearby. Please notify us if you are coming up early.
Saturday
7:00 AM – 9:00 AM — Sign-in open
9:20 AM — Rider meeting
9:30 AM — Start
5:00 PM — Final cutoff
Route Summary
- Distance: 46 miles
- Elevation Gain: ~5,000 feet
- Surface: Over 75% gravel & hardpack with low-traffic pavement
- Strava Route: Strava Route →
- GPX Garmin file: Garmin GPX →
- Ride with GPS: Ride with GPS
Course & Safety Notes
- Turns will be marked with orange flagging tape: three strips before a turn on the side of the turn, one after
- Large orange directional signs may be used at major intersections
- Please download the cue sheet or GPX file as backup
- Riders must obey all traffic laws—this is an open-road ride
- A final descent leads to NC-181; riders must stop before crossing 181 and then proceed to the Wildhaven driveway for a final gravel sprint
- Be courteous to other participants and any outbound vehicles on the driveway
Rules
- Have fun
- Helmets are required while riding
- Front and rear lights are highly recommended
- Outside support allowed
- Rider-to-rider support encouraged
- Ride single-file unless passing
- Obey all traffic laws
- The director may disqualify any rider (especially if good vibes are not conveyed)
- All participants (including DNFs) must sign in at the finish
Parking & Camping
- Parking is limited; carpooling is encouraged
- Overnight RV/van/camper parking is allowed with prior approval and includes access to all onsite amenities ($50 fee)
- Follow the instructions from the parking staff
- Ensure vehicles are clear of the main driveway
Lodging
Wildhaven Farm & Forest Retreat
On-site camping is available with prior approval
https://wildhavennc.com/stay
The Pineola
Website: https://www.thepineola.com
Address: 3085 Linville Falls Hwy, Newland, NC 28657
Description: Rustic-modern mountain property offering lodge rooms, cabins, RV sites, glamping tents, and an on-site taproom. Located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway—ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, cyclists, and groups.
Pineola Inn & Country Store
Website: http://www.pineolainn.com
Address: 3085 Linville Falls Hwy, Pineola, NC 28662 (same complex as The Pineola)
Description: No-frills, clean motel with large modern rooms featuring cable TV, air conditioning, and mini-fridges. Located adjacent to the Pineola Country Store and High-Country Ski Shop. Family-friendly and affordable.
Pixie Motor Inn
No official website – book via Google or third-party platforms
Address: 1858 Millers Gap Hwy, Newland, NC 28657
Description: Small, old-school roadside motel with basic accommodations. Known for quiet, budget-friendly rooms. Best booked by phone or in person; limited online presence.
Hemlock Inn (Newland)
Website: https://www.hemlockinn.net
Address: 134 Morris St, Newland, NC 28657
Description: Family-owned inn in downtown Newland offering standard motel rooms and quaint suites. Walkable to restaurants and local shops. Clean, quiet, and locally operated.
Refund Policy
- No refunds for any reason
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
WILDHAVEN Farm & Forest Retreat (Private by resv-only), 9696 North Carolina 181, Newland, United States
USD 71.21 to USD 113.89
