Ridge Runout Gravel

In the spirit of gravel: a self-supported ride series exploring “the other” Pisgah National Forest around Table Rock Mountain and Wilson Creek. It’s not a race—intended as a hard or good-vibes training ride depending on what you’re looking for, with an edge… but we all know better. Great ride. Good food. Good times after.

Front-Loaded Fun

Presented by Wildhaven Farm & Forest Retreat, Headquarters Bike + Outdoors, and Overmountain Cycles.

A self-supported, two-part gravel ride series based out of Wildhaven Farm & Forest Retreat in Jonas Ridge, NC. The 46-mile loop features a gravel descent off Table Rock Road, scenic gravel along Brown Mountain Beach, and a final punch up Pineola that leaves a mark. Same course each time. No podium (maybe) - just community, effort, and post-ride beer (n.a. beer available too) and pizza/food.

The course is challenging at all paces but manageable for low-intermediate to advanced fitness levels. The fastest riders may finish in around 3 hours, while for others it may take closer to 6. There will be a 3-mile neutral rollout from the farm until the turn onto Gingercake Road to ensure all riders navigate the busy road section safely. A challenge award will be given to the first rider to finish under 3 hours.

It’s not a race. But… we all know better!

2026 Ride Details

Dates:
Saturday, May 16, 2026

Saturday, September 19, 2026

Location: Wildhaven Farm & Forest Retreat

Address: 9696 NC Hwy 181, Newland, NC 28657

(Google Maps only — Apple Maps and Waze often misdirect)

Entry Fee: $65 per event or $102 for both (includes mechanical aid station at the bottom of Table Rock Road, fully stocked aid station at the bottom of Pineola Road, plus post-ride beer/drinks and food).

Event Schedule

Friday
5:00 PM – 10:00 PM — Sign-in open for those staying with us or nearby. Please notify us if you are coming up early.

Saturday
7:00 AM – 9:00 AM — Sign-in open

9:20 AM — Rider meeting

9:30 AM — Start

5:00 PM — Final cutoff

Route Summary

• Distance: 46 miles
• Elevation Gain: ~5,000 feet
• Surface: Over 75% gravel & hardpack with low-traffic pavement
• Strava Route: Strava Route →
• GPX Garmin file: Garmin GPX →
• Ride with GPS: Ride with GPS

Course & Safety Notes

• Turns will be marked with orange flagging tape: three strips before a turn on the side of the turn, one after
• Large orange directional signs may be used at major intersections
• Please download the cue sheet or GPX file as backup
• Riders must obey all traffic laws—this is an open-road ride
• A final descent leads to NC-181; riders must stop before crossing 181 and then proceed to the Wildhaven driveway for a final gravel sprint
• Be courteous to other participants and any outbound vehicles on the driveway

Rules

• Have fun
• Helmets are required while riding
• Front and rear lights are highly recommended
• Outside support allowed
• Rider-to-rider support encouraged
• Ride single-file unless passing
• Obey all traffic laws
• The director may disqualify any rider (especially if good vibes are not conveyed)
• All participants (including DNFs) must sign in at the finish

Parking & Camping

• Parking is limited; carpooling is encouraged
• Overnight RV/van/camper parking is allowed with prior approval and includes access to all onsite amenities ($50 fee)
• Follow the instructions from the parking staff
• Ensure vehicles are clear of the main driveway

Lodging

Wildhaven Farm & Forest Retreat

On-site camping is available with prior approval

https://wildhavennc.com/stay

The Pineola

Website: https://www.thepineola.com

Address: 3085 Linville Falls Hwy, Newland, NC 28657

Description: Rustic-modern mountain property offering lodge rooms, cabins, RV sites, glamping tents, and an on-site taproom. Located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway—ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, cyclists, and groups.

Pineola Inn & Country Store

Website: http://www.pineolainn.com

Address: 3085 Linville Falls Hwy, Pineola, NC 28662 (same complex as The Pineola)

Description: No-frills, clean motel with large modern rooms featuring cable TV, air conditioning, and mini-fridges. Located adjacent to the Pineola Country Store and High-Country Ski Shop. Family-friendly and affordable.

Pixie Motor Inn

No official website – book via Google or third-party platforms

Address: 1858 Millers Gap Hwy, Newland, NC 28657

Description: Small, old-school roadside motel with basic accommodations. Known for quiet, budget-friendly rooms. Best booked by phone or in person; limited online presence.

Hemlock Inn (Newland)

Website: https://www.hemlockinn.net

Address: 134 Morris St, Newland, NC 28657

Description: Family-owned inn in downtown Newland offering standard motel rooms and quaint suites. Walkable to restaurants and local shops. Clean, quiet, and locally operated.

Refund Policy

• No refunds for any reason