Cherohala Challenge
About this race
The Smoky Mountain Wheelmen proudly present the 24th 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. Please note this is elapsed time from the mass start not moving time.
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.
The 35 mile Valley Ride is a hilly and scenic rid through local, low traffic backroads.
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 Southeast’s 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.
If you self SAG off the course, please report to a rest stop or the race director.
Custom cycling kit available to purchase now.
https://teamstore.agile-sportswear.com/store/the-cherohala-challenge/
Packet pickup and late registration:
Friday, June 5:
4-7pm, location Vonore School. This is the start location for the ride!
Saturday, June 6, Day of Ride:
115-mile 5:30-6:50am at Vonore School.
35 and 62 mile routes from 6:50-8:20am 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.
The Cherohala Challenge brings an exciting Ultra to Vonore, Tennessee on June 7, 2025. Don't miss this beautiful event!
Pick your distance
Cycling
Cherohala Challenge Century - 115 Mile
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
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 descents…the same descents that the Century riders will enjoy.
Charles Hall Memorial - 35 Mile
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.
Weather Overview
These values reflect historical conditions on the race dates in Vonore in 2025, from Open-Meteo archive data.
About Vonore
Cherohala Challenge takes place in Vonore, Tennessee, United States. The local timezone is America/New_York.
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Race information has been sourced from the event's official website and other publicly available resources. For the most up-to-date details, please refer to the official website directly. If you notice any incorrect or missing information, don't hesitate to reach out to us by email.