Updated July 15, 2024 --
The Blue Ridge Brutal has been an annual epic ride in North Carolina for over 30 years, put on in partnership with the Ashe County Chamber of Commerce. There are multiple route options spanning 100 miles to 25 miles ranging from 8,600 ft to 1,800 ft of climbing, respectively. Selected as one of the best road cycling events in the Southeast, the pain of all the hills is offset by the beautiful scenery of North Carolina and with courses that normally feature long stretches on the spine of the famed Blue Ridge Parkway. There is also a supplementary challenge named the Assault on Mount Jefferson, which adds another layer of brutality to this challenging event.
Event & Course Info
The Blue Ridge Brutal is not your average cycling event; it's a test of endurance, determination, and an appreciation for the natural beauty that North Carolina has to offer. With new routes this year due to construction on the Blue Ridge Parkway, the event presents cyclists with four options: 100, 70, 50, or 25 miles. Each of these rides takes participants through the undulating landscapes of the Blue Ridge mountains, offering a mixture of challenging climbs and exhilarating descents.
One of the highlights of the Blue Ridge Brutal is the optional and exclusive climb up Mount Jefferson. While not officially classified, this climb is as close to a Category 2 climb as it gets. Spanning 3.4 miles, the climb ascends nearly 1,500 feet with an average grade of approximately 8%. This uphill battle is reserved for the bravest 80 riders who register for the challenge. It's a true test of strength, stamina, and determination, offering an unmatched sense of accomplishment upon reaching the top.
Get your climbing legs ready, as the 100-mile route features an impressive 8,600+ ft of climbing and descending, while the 70-mile showcases over 6,000 ft of elevation gain. Organizers provide some suggested training routes to prepare for the events regardless of the length chosen. Volunteer SAG support is available on the course, and the 100-mile course will have 6 aid stations, the 70 miles 4 stations, and one more at the top of the Assault of Mt. Jefferson.
All Blue Ridge Brutal routes start at 8:00 am and finish at the Ashe Civic Center in West Jefferson, providing a central hub for participants to gather before and after their rides. More than just a grueling test of physical endurance, the Blue Ridge Brutal also serves a meaningful purpose. All proceeds from the event go towards providing scholarship funds for graduating seniors through the Ashe County Advantage Project.
Area Accommodations & Things to Do
West Jefferson is a small town that is quintessential American. The town, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It offers a beautiful landscape and cool mountain breezes while providing visitors with a sense of history mixed with modern culture.
The area has so much to offer, and it's an easy place to make a vacation out of the event. Accommodations include the Holiday Inn Express and the nearby River House Inn, while there are a plethora of bed & breakfasts surrounding the area. If you are looking for a little more action, Boone, NC, is a quick 30-minute drive and offers more hotel options, such as the Horton Hotel. You will also have plenty of vacation rentals to choose from if you prefer to have a more home-like experience while in town for Blue Ridge Brutal, from this downtown apartment to a quaint modern cottage. For those who appreciate the simplicity of sleeping under the stars, camping at Greenfield Campground, Mount Jefferson State Park, or Buffalo Creek Farm promises nights of serenity and connection with nature.
West Jefferson, NC, offers a charming culinary scene that reflects the region's local flavours and community spirit. From quaint cafes to farm-to-table bistros, the town boasts a variety of dining options that celebrate Appalachian traditions and modern twists. Some favorites include Kitchen Table Bistro, Havana Cafe for some amazing Cuban food, Craft Bistro, and Hillbilly Grill for a family-friendly option.
Outdoor athletes visiting West Jefferson during the summer can indulge in thrilling mountain biking trails that traverse the picturesque landscapes. The Rocky Knob Mountain Bike Park offers a network of well-maintained trails suitable for all skill levels. Advanced riders can tackle challenging singletrack routes with exciting features, while beginners can enjoy gentler paths through the lush forests. The park's diverse terrain, including rock gardens, jumps, and flowy descents, guarantees an adrenaline-pumping experience amid the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains.
For water enthusiasts seeking an exhilarating experience, whitewater rafting on the New River is a must-do activity. The river offers a range of rapids, from gentle Class I to thrilling Class IV, providing an adventure suitable for various levels of expertise. Guided rafting tours allow athletes to navigate the rapids while taking in the stunning natural surroundings.
Those who enjoy hiking will appreciate Mount Jefferson State Natural Area which boasts a network of trails leading to the summit of Mount Jefferson, rewarding hikers with panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains. The rigorous Rhododendron Trail offers a steep ascent or you can choose more moderate paths like the Lost Province Trail.
Related Events
While Blue Ridge Brutal is the only event produced by its organizer, there are many other top road biking events in North Carolina, including the Assaults on Mount Marion and Mount Mitchell, and the Gran Fondo Boone and Gran Fondo Asheville, which are Gran Fondo National Series events. For multi-sport athletes, check out other Strambecco best-rated events taking place in North Carolina such as BWR Asheville produced by Monuments of Cycling and is part of the Quadrupel Gravel Series - it is considered by our team to be one of the Best Gravel Cycling Events in the Southeast.
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