Cherohala Challenge
- Date Sat 6th June 2026
- Time 7:00AM EDT
- Location Vonore, Tennessee
- Price $35.00 - $70.00
- Races 3 races
- Distances Ultra
Event summary
Get ready for an exhilarating experience at the 24th edition of the Cherohala Challenge on Saturday, June 6, 2026! Set in the stunning backdrop of Vonore, Tennessee, this cycling event promises breathtaking views and challenging climbs across three distinct routes tailored for all skill levels. Riders can choose from 35, 62, or the iconic 115-mile Cherohala Challenge Century, which features a grueling 10,350 feet of elevation gain and a thrilling journey through the famous Tail of the Dragon.
Participants will start in Vonore and tackle the scenic climbs that lead to the magnificent Cherohala Skyway, making this not just a race, but an unforgettable adventure. With experienced SAG support, well-stocked rest stops, and a free post-ride meal, cyclists can focus on the ride while enjoying the camaraderie of fellow enthusiasts. Plus, all riders who conquer the Century route within 7 hours will earn the coveted Dragon Slayer medal! Mark your calendars for this phenomenal cycling event and start training now to SLAY THE DRAGON!
Participants will start in Vonore and tackle the scenic climbs that lead to the magnificent Cherohala Skyway, making this not just a race, but an unforgettable adventure. With experienced SAG support, well-stocked rest stops, and a free post-ride meal, cyclists can focus on the ride while enjoying the camaraderie of fellow enthusiasts. Plus, all riders who conquer the Century route within 7 hours will earn the coveted Dragon Slayer medal! Mark your calendars for this phenomenal cycling event and start training now to SLAY THE DRAGON!
Organiser's Description
THE SMOKY MOUNTAIN WHEELMEN PROUDLY PRESENT THE 24RD EDITION OF THE CHEROHALA CHALLENGE.
The event offers three distinctive rides that almost anyone can find a ride that will fit their skill level with rides of 35, 62, and 115 miles.
Join us Saturday, June 6, for breathtaking views and pride inducing climbs on one of three world class routes.
The 2026 edition moves the start/finish to Vonore to enhance, safety, new routes, and a new overall experience!
The title event, the Cherohala Challenge Century, is not for the faint of heart. This once in a lifetime ride tests riders with 115 miles and 10,350ft of climbing across two states. Riders begin in Vonore heading climb to Deals Gap and brave the fabled 318 curves of the Tail of the Dragon. After besting the beast, riders will descend the mountain into the Joyce Kilmer Forest near Robbinsville, North Carolina. What goes down must come up and riders begin their ascent across the magnificent Cherohala Skyway.
And keeping with tradition, DRAGON SLAYER medals will go to all who conquer the beast in 7 hours or less.
The All-New Metric Century takes riders on 62 miles of rolling pavement on two-lane and smaller roads past local homes, pastures, and farms. With 3,700 feet of climbing you'll get your fair share of elevation changes without the brutality of the Skyway. This route allows riders to sit up, appreciate the terrain, and even snap a few photos of their day.
No Knight is complete without their retinue so the ride provides you with a staggering amount of support. Experienced SAG vehicles are joined by moto support, mechanics, amazing rest stop crews, and friendly staff.
The Wheelmen are proud of our legacy and want you to come experience one of the Southeasts premier rides! Start training now to SLAY THE DRAGON!
* All routes are fully SAG supported with well-stocked rest stops.
* Free post-ride meal.
* All riders must wear helmets.
* Custom Event T-shirt for all riders who preregister.
Custom cycling kit available to purchase now.
https://teamstore.agile-sportswear.com/store/the-cherohala-challenge/
PACKET PICKUP AND LATE REGISTRATION:
Friday, June 5:
4-8pm, location TBA
Saturday, June 6, Day of Ride:
115-mile and 62-mile routes from 5:30-6:50am at Vonore School
35 mile and 62 mile routes from 5:30-8:20 at Vonore School.
Ride Start Times:
115-mile route starts at 7:00 am.
62-mile route starts at 8:30 am.
35-mile route starts at 8:30 am.
ROUTES:
Routes are available on Ride with GPS [https://ridewithgps.com/auto_approve/Event/436995/aSFU6IbEF6yncsbwkrHOhtrRWrZoIvBA]. All you need is the free account. RaceDay Events is providing the paid tier of perks!
https://ridewithgps.com/auto_approve/Event/436995/aSFU6IbEF6yncsbwkrHOhtrRWrZoIvBA
The event offers three distinctive rides that almost anyone can find a ride that will fit their skill level with rides of 35, 62, and 115 miles.
Join us Saturday, June 6, for breathtaking views and pride inducing climbs on one of three world class routes.
The 2026 edition moves the start/finish to Vonore to enhance, safety, new routes, and a new overall experience!
The title event, the Cherohala Challenge Century, is not for the faint of heart. This once in a lifetime ride tests riders with 115 miles and 10,350ft of climbing across two states. Riders begin in Vonore heading climb to Deals Gap and brave the fabled 318 curves of the Tail of the Dragon. After besting the beast, riders will descend the mountain into the Joyce Kilmer Forest near Robbinsville, North Carolina. What goes down must come up and riders begin their ascent across the magnificent Cherohala Skyway.
And keeping with tradition, DRAGON SLAYER medals will go to all who conquer the beast in 7 hours or less.
The All-New Metric Century takes riders on 62 miles of rolling pavement on two-lane and smaller roads past local homes, pastures, and farms. With 3,700 feet of climbing you'll get your fair share of elevation changes without the brutality of the Skyway. This route allows riders to sit up, appreciate the terrain, and even snap a few photos of their day.
No Knight is complete without their retinue so the ride provides you with a staggering amount of support. Experienced SAG vehicles are joined by moto support, mechanics, amazing rest stop crews, and friendly staff.
The Wheelmen are proud of our legacy and want you to come experience one of the Southeasts premier rides! Start training now to SLAY THE DRAGON!
* All routes are fully SAG supported with well-stocked rest stops.
* Free post-ride meal.
* All riders must wear helmets.
* Custom Event T-shirt for all riders who preregister.
Custom cycling kit available to purchase now.
https://teamstore.agile-sportswear.com/store/the-cherohala-challenge/
PACKET PICKUP AND LATE REGISTRATION:
Friday, June 5:
4-8pm, location TBA
Saturday, June 6, Day of Ride:
115-mile and 62-mile routes from 5:30-6:50am at Vonore School
35 mile and 62 mile routes from 5:30-8:20 at Vonore School.
Ride Start Times:
115-mile route starts at 7:00 am.
62-mile route starts at 8:30 am.
35-mile route starts at 8:30 am.
ROUTES:
Routes are available on Ride with GPS [https://ridewithgps.com/auto_approve/Event/436995/aSFU6IbEF6yncsbwkrHOhtrRWrZoIvBA]. All you need is the free account. RaceDay Events is providing the paid tier of perks!
https://ridewithgps.com/auto_approve/Event/436995/aSFU6IbEF6yncsbwkrHOhtrRWrZoIvBA
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414 Hall St, Vonore, 37885, TN, United States
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