Cherohala Challenge
- Date Sat 7th June 2025
- Time 7:00AM EDT
- Location Tellico Plains, Tennessee
- Price $55.00 - $110.00
- Races 3 races
- Distances Ultra
Last chance to enter
Race day is fast approaching
Event summary
Get ready for an exhilarating day of cycling at the 23rd edition of the Cherohala Challenge on Saturday, June 7, 2025, in the picturesque town of Tellico Plains, Monroe! This exciting event caters to riders of all skill levels, offering three fantastic ride options: a scenic 35-mile loop, a thrilling 62-mile Metric Century, and the ultimate challenge of a 115-mile Century ride.
The 35-mile route introduces a delightful journey through rolling hills and beautiful valleys, with a manageable climb of just 1,900 feet. For those seeking a bit more adventure, the Metric Century promises a breathtaking climb with 8,200 feet of elevation gain, leading cyclists to the stunning heights of the Skyway before a rewarding descent. The Cherohala Challenge Century is the star of the day, featuring a grueling 115 miles with 10,350 feet of climbing that takes riders through the infamous Tail of the Dragon and the majestic Cherohala Skyway. With incredible support throughout the ride, including experienced SAG vehicles and well-stocked rest stops, participants can focus on conquering the course and enjoying the spectacular views. Don't miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable cycling experience and earn your coveted Dragon
The 35-mile route introduces a delightful journey through rolling hills and beautiful valleys, with a manageable climb of just 1,900 feet. For those seeking a bit more adventure, the Metric Century promises a breathtaking climb with 8,200 feet of elevation gain, leading cyclists to the stunning heights of the Skyway before a rewarding descent. The Cherohala Challenge Century is the star of the day, featuring a grueling 115 miles with 10,350 feet of climbing that takes riders through the infamous Tail of the Dragon and the majestic Cherohala Skyway. With incredible support throughout the ride, including experienced SAG vehicles and well-stocked rest stops, participants can focus on conquering the course and enjoying the spectacular views. Don't miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable cycling experience and earn your coveted Dragon
Organiser's Description
THE SMOKY MOUNTAIN WHEELMEN PROUDLY PRESENT THE 23RD EDITION OF THE CHEROHALA CHALLENGE.
THE 2025 DATE IS JUNE 7!
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 7, for breathtaking views and pride inducing climbs on one of three world class routes.
Options begin with a new loop 35 mile route taking you through scenic valleys and rolling hills with only 1,900 feet of climbing. This new ride is a great addition to the day.
The more adventurous will want to tackle the Metric Century. Boasting 8,200ft over a total of 63 miles, this up and back route guides you to the top of the Skyway and then lets you turn around and coast your way back down the mountain you just conquered.
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 Tellico Plains heading north to 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. As a reward, the final stretch is almost all down hill, finishing to an outstanding post ride meal.
And keeping with tradition, DRAGON SLAYER medals will go to all who conquer the beast in 7 hours or less.
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. The store will be open until June16th. Orders will not arrive before the ride.
https://via.primalcustom.com/collections/ts-12145
PACKET PICKUP AND LATE REGISTRATION:
Friday, June 6:
4-8pm at Tellico Visitor Center, 225 Cherohala Skyway, Tellico Plains, TN
Saturday, June 7, Day of Ride:
115-mile and 62-mile routes from 5:30-6:50am at the Tellico Plains Visitor Center
35-mile route from 5:30-9-45 am at the Tellico Plains Visitor Center.
Ride Start Times:
115-mile route starts at 7:00 am.
62-mile route starts at 7:10 am.
35-mile route starts at 10:00 am.
Parking:
If entering Tellico Plains from Highway 68 you will turn on the Cherohala Skyway(highway 165), from there you will make the immediate first left on Bank Street. Parking is available in the paved Community Center Parking lot on your right that is past the Tellicafe and across the street from the laundromat. You can park self-contained RVs overnight in this parking lot. Please do not park in the first row next to Bank Street, this is reserved for the towns Saturday morning Flea Market.
THE 2025 DATE IS JUNE 7!
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 7, for breathtaking views and pride inducing climbs on one of three world class routes.
Options begin with a new loop 35 mile route taking you through scenic valleys and rolling hills with only 1,900 feet of climbing. This new ride is a great addition to the day.
The more adventurous will want to tackle the Metric Century. Boasting 8,200ft over a total of 63 miles, this up and back route guides you to the top of the Skyway and then lets you turn around and coast your way back down the mountain you just conquered.
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 Tellico Plains heading north to 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. As a reward, the final stretch is almost all down hill, finishing to an outstanding post ride meal.
And keeping with tradition, DRAGON SLAYER medals will go to all who conquer the beast in 7 hours or less.
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. The store will be open until June16th. Orders will not arrive before the ride.
https://via.primalcustom.com/collections/ts-12145
PACKET PICKUP AND LATE REGISTRATION:
Friday, June 6:
4-8pm at Tellico Visitor Center, 225 Cherohala Skyway, Tellico Plains, TN
Saturday, June 7, Day of Ride:
115-mile and 62-mile routes from 5:30-6:50am at the Tellico Plains Visitor Center
35-mile route from 5:30-9-45 am at the Tellico Plains Visitor Center.
Ride Start Times:
115-mile route starts at 7:00 am.
62-mile route starts at 7:10 am.
35-mile route starts at 10:00 am.
Parking:
If entering Tellico Plains from Highway 68 you will turn on the Cherohala Skyway(highway 165), from there you will make the immediate first left on Bank Street. Parking is available in the paved Community Center Parking lot on your right that is past the Tellicafe and across the street from the laundromat. You can park self-contained RVs overnight in this parking lot. Please do not park in the first row next to Bank Street, this is reserved for the towns Saturday morning Flea Market.
Races
-
Cherohala Challenge Century - 115 Mile
Incl. T-Shirt
Sat 7th June 2025 (7:00AM EDT)
$110.00
This is a ride for those who are up to the challenge, for those whose bucket list includes doing the challenging rides, and those who want the thrill and satisfaction of conquering the Dragon and Cherohala Skyway all in the same day. A full day of long sweeping corners, majestic views with challenging climbs and amazing descents as you ride from Tellico Plains Visitor Center to the mighty Tail of The Dragon where you will snake your way through 318 curves over an 11-mile stretch. -
Metric Century - 62 Mile
Incl. T-Shirt
Sat 7th June 2025 (7:10AM EDT)
$110.00
No time to train for the full Cherohala Challenge Century, but want to tackle the toughest Metric Century in our area? This ride is for you! The Cherohala Metric Century has some amazing climbs with amazing scenery. You will enjoy the equally amazing descentsthe same descents that the Century riders will enjoy. -
Charles Hall Memorial - 35 Mile
Incl. T-Shirt
Sat 7th June 2025 (10:00AM EDT)
$55.00
This ride is in honor of Mr. Charles Hall, former mayor of Tellico Plains, who passed away on December 31, 2014. Mr. Hall served as the Mayor for over 30 years. He was a major supporter of the Cherohala Challenge throughout those years, offering his continuing assistance and support. Mr. Hall is missed fondly remembered by several associated with this event to this very day. The Cherohala Valley Ride is a 35-mile gentle ride in the Tellico Plains area. You will find this a very relaxing and enjoyable ride that allows you to enjoy the backroads and the beautiful scenery.
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