East Tennessee’s 9 Lakes Region to Host Premier Cycling Events in 2024

Sunday, February 18, 2024

Aligned with its growing fame as a top cycling spot, East Tennessee’s 9 Lakes Region is thrilled to unveil a variety of biking events that cater to both competitive spirits and those seeking outdoor adventures and social connections among cyclists of all ages.

The upcoming calendar is brimming with cycling events that highlight the thrill and challenge of biking through Southern Appalachia, showcasing rugged mountain paths, serene gravel roads, and extensive paved routes that weave through the region’s lakes and mountains.

The 9 Lakes Region stands out for its wide array of cycling routes and trails, including a trail recognized as an EPIC by the International Mountain Bicycling Association at Big South Fork National Recreation Area, offering premier biking experiences in the Eastern US.

Whether you’re a beginner, a seasoned pro, or somewhere in between, the 9 Lakes Region has something for every cyclist, with a variety of landscapes and events to choose from. Get ready to mark your calendars and join in on the excitement of the 2024 event lineup:

Mountain Biking Events

• March 15-24: Tennessee National at Oliver Springs: Windrock Bike Park is set to host a premier mountain biking event in the Southeast, featuring Downhill, Enduro, XC, Whip-Off, and Kids Competitions, alongside an industry expo and vendor area.

Road Cycling Opportunities

• April 27: Ride the Plains in Strawberry Plains: Enjoy a scenic road tour through Jefferson County, Tennessee, with minimal traffic. Choose from fully supported rides of 13, 25, 33, 55, 66, and 80 miles, all beginning at Rush Strong School.

Gravel Bike Adventures

• March 24: The Waucheesi in Tellico Plains: Choose between 63/88 mile routes in this breathtaking event. Experience the beauty and challenge of the Cherohala Skyway, Cherokee, and Nantahala National Forests, featuring steep climbs, swift descents, winding forest roads, and stunning views.

With hundreds of miles of mapped cycling trails, the 9 Lakes Region is part of the expansive Tennessee River Valley, covering nearly nine hundred miles across seven southern states.

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