Tour de[s] Mountains - Sparta, NC
Details
The Tour de Mountains offers 40, 60, and 100 mile routes. I've done the full century, with nearly 12k' of cumulative elevation, four times and shorter routes twice, including the metric last year with other Tarwheels. This year, my daughter (28yo), son (26yo), and I (*cough*) are are doing the century ride together. You can also start the century route, do a few extra climbs and miles than the 60-mile route, and at the mile 60 rest stop either continue on the 40-mile western loop or head the 4-1/2 miles back to the finish. Expect a pace about the effort of a 16mph solo ride around CH, or B18 group ride, but yielding a 12-13mph in the hilly terrain. Faster, slower, and shorter distance riders all welcome.
Jagged, sawtooth profile doesn't allow for much drafting--either going up climbs of 0.5-1.5 miles or plummeting down the other sides--but it's still fun to ride with others. Beautiful, quiet country roads with usually friendly drivers.
Important note:
Please note that this is not a Tarwheels sponsored event and that it is not covered by the club’s insurance.
ROUTE MAPS
40 Mile Route
60 Mile Route
100 Mile Route
https://www.active.com/sparta-nc/cycling/races/tour-de-mountains-2026