Carolina Hills Classic Bike Tour: Arthritis Foundation’s Latest Fundraising Adventure, Coming June 2025

Wednesday, June 26, 2024

The Arthritis Foundation is excited to introduce the Carolina Hills Classic, a brand-new national cycling event taking place from June 12-15, 2025. This multi-day cycling adventure will journey from Asheville, North Carolina, to Greenville, South Carolina, showcasing the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains.

A Unique Southeast Cycling Destination

Cyclists will embark from Asheville, enjoying the picturesque roads, challenging climbs, and vibrant local culture of the Blue Ridge foothills. On the second day, participants will ride approximately 80 miles to Greenville, renowned for its lively cycling community, artistic atmosphere, and Southern hospitality. The final two days will be dedicated to exploring Greenville’s bike-friendly routes and stunning landscapes.

Inclusive and E-Bike Friendly

The Carolina Hills Classic welcomes cyclists of all skill levels, including those with e-bikes. Riders can choose to push their limits in the hilly terrain or take a more relaxed approach, soaking in the breathtaking surroundings with friends.

Premium Cycling Experience

The event offers a fully-supported cycling tour with comprehensive mechanical assistance, SAG/shuttle support, and daily luggage valet and transportation. Participants will enjoy four-night hotel accommodations, fully-stocked rest and fuel stops, nightly entertainment, social hours, and special receptions in Asheville and Greenville.

“Asheville and Greenville are iconic cycling and travel destinations known for their remarkable natural beauty, stunning scenery, delicious food, eclectic art, and hospitable culture. They are both such sought-after locations for cyclists that we couldn’t pick just one – so we decided to build our new Carolina Hills Classic tour around this region which is a mecca for riders,” said Shannon Marang Cox, National Senior Director of the Arthritis Foundation’s Cycling Experience.

“For more than 20 years, the Arthritis Foundation has hosted the ‘The Ride of a Lifetime’ in California with its epic route and experience, VIP support, and warm community atmosphere,” Marang Cox said. “Now the Arthritis Foundation introduces the all-new Carolina Hills Classic, with all of the wonderful aspects of a fun and fully supported tour between Asheville and Greenville.”

Building on a Legacy

The Arthritis Foundation brings 25 years of experience from its successful California Coast Classic (CCC) Bike Tour, which annually raises over $1 million and has earned the title of “The Ride of a Lifetime.” The Carolina Hills Classic will be the Foundation’s second national destination cycling event.

Supporting the Fight Against Arthritis

The Arthritis Foundation has been at the forefront of combating arthritis, the leading cause of disability in the U.S., for over 75 years. With more than half a billion dollars invested in research since 1948, including over $23 million from the CCC Bike Tour, the Foundation continues its mission. The inaugural Carolina Hills Classic aims to raise $250,000 to support the 60 million adults and children living with arthritis across the country.

“This is an exciting time at the Arthritis Foundation. As the iconic California Coast Classic Bike Tour prepares to celebrate its 25th anniversary in 2025, the Arthritis Foundation is proudly launching its second national destination event, bringing the inspiring and unmatched experience of the CCC to the Southeast,” said Arthritis Foundation President and Chief Executive Officer Steven Taylor, who has participated in the California Coast Classic since 2022. “So, whether your bucket list includes the California Coast or the Blue Ridge Mountains, you can ride with our amazing community while supporting the nearly 60 million adults and children in the U.S. who have doctor-diagnosed arthritis or a related condition.”

Join us for the Carolina Hills Classic and help make a difference in the fight against arthritis.