Last Updated April 18, 2024
Hincapie Events offers the ultimate cycling experience in Tennessee, the Gran Fondo Hincapie – Chattanooga, which offers standard and junior entries for ~81-mile, ~55-mile, or ~10-mile routes for riders over 18. Picked by Strambecco as one of the Best Road Cycling Events in the Southeast and the Best Cycling Race Events in Tennessee, each ride includes catered rest stops with live music and SAG support. All courses start from Miller Park and have scenic views of the Tennessee River. The riders start together and then split into different routes based on their dedicated ride.
Below you will find information on course details, lodging, other outdoor activities to do while in town for Gran Fondo Hincapie – Chattanooga.
Event & Course Info
Starting in the heart of the River City, the Gran Fondo Hincapie – Chattanooga takes riders from bustling downtown streets to the serpentine roads of Sequatchie Mountain. The course runs along the scenic Tennessee River before climbing the challenging ascent of Sequatchie Mountain. After conquering the mountain, riders can rejoice at the family festival, where they and their friends can enjoy free food and beverages in celebration of their achievement.
Gran’s longest and most challenging ride is ~81 miles and 5,612 feet of elevation gain, with three rest stops along the way. For terrain, the course offers a variety of steep climbs and fast descents, starting with 9 miles of flat roads along the Tennessee River. The first challenge begins at 9.1 miles with a 5.5-mile climb near Suck Creek at 5%. Next is a recovery on a 4.1-mile descent that moves fast. This is followed by 16 miles of flat roads of Sequatchie Valley that lead to the big climb of the day, the 1.9-mile ascent up Sequatchie Mountain with an average grade of 10.9%. Another quick descent and the final 21 miles are the most scenic, with clear views of the Chattanooga Skyline.
The Medio course measures ~55 miles and 4,100 feet of elevation gain with three rest stops. Medio riders start with Gran riders, 9 miles of flat roads with a 5% grade climb for 5.5 miles. They continue with Gran riders on the 4.1-mile descent and the 16 miles of Sequatchie Valley flat roads. At mile 29.8, they break off from Gran Riders and return along the Tennessee River for the final 21 miles.
The third-course option is Piccolo, ~10 miles and 463 elevation feet and one rest stop. The course riders spend the initial 3.5 miles with Gran and Medio riders. They then turn off to start their main challenge, the Pineville Road climb, followed by a descent to Browns Ferry Trail Head for their rest stop. After refueling, they continue on a scenic path back into downtown Chattanooga.
The Gran Fondo Hincapie – Chattanooga experience is not just a “big ride”– it’s designed to be multi-day cycling celebrations, including scenic and challenging routes, live music, and a family festival with free fun, food, and brew. It’s a chance to join thousands of cycling pros, celebrities, weekend warriors, and first-time riders in the excitement of the Gran Fondo Hincapie hosted by George and the family. George himself maps and tests race routes. The events are chances to connect with other cycling enthusiasts and show off your passion, no matter your skill level.
To make the most of the Gran Fondo Hincapie – Chattanooga, be sure to check out their recommended training plans, and the complete 2023 Rider Guide for the event, and enhance your experience by tapping into unforgettable VIP events.
Accommodations & Things to Do
Make plans to explore everything that Chattanooga has to offer, from other outdoor activities like hiking and climbing to enjoying restaurants along the Tennessee River, like Tony’s Pasta Shop & Trattoria and Scottie’s on the River. Lodging options for the event include a group rate at the Courtyard Chattanooga Downtown, a variety of great vacation rentals, and unique camping experiences for those looking to spend more time outdoors.
Downtown Chattanooga boasts a vibrant culinary scene that emphasizes farm-to-table dining, with numerous eateries sourcing fresh, local ingredients to create wholesome and flavorful dishes. For a taste of this local-centric approach, consider dining at Public House, which focuses on refined Southern comfort food, Alleia for its rustic Italian dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, or Easy Bistro & Bar, known for its elegant interpretations of classic French and American cuisine using the best of Tennessee’s homegrown produce.
Chattanooga, often dubbed the “Scenic City,” is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts – with its unique geographical setting nestled between mountains and rivers, the city offers a range of activities that cater to those seeking adventure and natural beauty.
Located just a few minutes from downtown Chattanooga, Raccoon Mountain is a premier destination for mountain biking. The area features a network of trails that cater to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced riders. The trails wind around the Raccoon Mountain Reservoir, providing stunning views and varied terrain that includes everything from smooth dirt paths to challenging rocky sections. The system is well-maintained, with clear markings for trail difficulty. May’s mild temperatures and lush greenery make this an ideal time for hitting the trails.
For climbers, Sunset Rock on the western side of Lookout Mountain offers a world-class experience. This historic climbing spot, known for its role during the Civil War, today draws climbers from all over due to its solid sandstone and plethora of routes. There are options for various skill levels, but the area is particularly known for its challenging traditional climbs. The panoramic views of the Tennessee River and downtown Chattanooga from the top are a rewarding sight after a climb.
Kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding on the Tennessee River is another fantastic way to explore Chattanooga’s outdoor offerings. The river cuts right through the heart of the city, providing a unique urban paddling experience. Several local outfitters offer rentals and guided tours that take you through the heart of downtown, allowing you to see the city from a different perspective. The river is generally calm, making it suitable for athletes of all paddling abilities.
Related Events
In addition to Chattanooga, Hincapie Events produces a growing roster of popular events across the country, including events in Bangor, ME, Lehigh Valley, PA, Greenville, SC, and early Spring in Merced, CA. Suppose you aren’t familiar with George Hincapie, a former American road bicycle racer who competed as a professional between 1994 and 2012. He is best known for completing the Tour de France 16 times, most often in a support role for Lance Armstrong. Since retiring, Hincapie has parlayed his cycling fame into a multi-faceted business career that includes Hincapie Sports, a line of high-performance cycling ware; Hotel Domestique (Greenville County, SC), which caters to cyclists; and a growing national series of popular Gran Fondo events.
The Southeast region plays host to several events in the prestigious Gran Fondo National Series, a series of 10+ Road Events taking place across the US, all qualifier events for the USA Cycling Gran Fondo National Championship held in the Fall at Gran Fondo Maryland. Southeast GFNS events include Gran Fondo Florida in March, Tour of Georgia Gran Fondo in April, Gran Fondo Asheville in June in NC, and Boone Gran Fondo in August, also in NC.
For multi-sport endurance athletes looking for other events in the state of Tennessee and broader Southeast region, be sure to check out our full list of Strambecco’s Best Mountain Biking Race Events in the Southeast and the Best Gravel Cycling Race Events in the Southeast.
