Last Updated April 4, 2024
The Tryon Gravel Gallop is the 5th (of 6) leg of the Southeast Gravel Series, the largest gravel grinder series in the Southeast. The Start Finish venue is located at the log cabin in Harmon Field in Tryon, NC. Overlooking the North Pacolet River, the log cabin makes for the most refreshing atmosphere after crushing the mountains of Western North Carolina all day. It’s summer; it’s hot. However, go up into the mountains, where it’ll be cooler, and then relax by the river at Harmon Field with a cold recovery drink. A pretty nice way to spend a Saturday. Strambecco rates the event as one of the best gravel grinders in the Southeast.
The Tryon Gravel Gallop long course at 77 miles and 7400 feet of elevation gain is the most challenging route in the series. The short course is also no slouch at 47 miles and 3500 feet of elevation gain. Climbing for the main courses is packed into the early parts of the routes, so the final 10 miles are mostly downhill. As is customary for all Southeast Gravel Series events, there is also a short 16-mile beginner course. The Tryon course is one where equipment selection is critical. There are long pavement sections, very smooth gravel, two-track roads, and chunky gravel. You’ll want to ride something durable that won’t slow you down on the pavement.
Tryon, North Carolina, is nestled at the base of the Blue Ridge Escarpment in the Thermal Belt region of western North Carolina. Year after year, Tryon’s moderate winters, cool summer breezes, rolling landscapes, and mountain views attract those searching for outdoor escapes and the perfect place to vacation. It’s, known for its equestrian heritage and charming small-town atmosphere and offers boutique accommodations that offer unique experiences, such as 1906 Pine Crest Inn, a historic boutique inn that exudes Southern charm. There are also plentiful vacation rental options, such as this home, which would be perfect for a group participating in the Tryon Gravel Gallop.
Related Events
The six-part Southeast Gravel Series, produced by Southeast Gravel, runs from March to August and includes the Gravel Battle of Sumter Forest, Saluda Redbank 100, Race to Valhalla, Greenwood Gravel Grinder, Tryon Gravel Gallop, and Kershaw Gold Rush.
Another great summer gravel event is the Belgian Waffle Ride Asheville. Known for its challenging course and unique blend of road and gravel sections, the BWR Asheville promises an unforgettable experience for cyclists seeking a taste of adventure and a dash of the extraordinary. BWR Asheville is part of the prestigious Belgian Waffle Ride Series, a North American series offering some of the world’s most highly respected and well-organized gravel events/races. The idea of the Series was conceived initially with the advent of “the most unique cycling event in the country,” the Belgian Waffle Ride California (San Diego). BWR California is well known among cycling enthusiasts and pros as one of the most difficult bicycle races in the US at 146 miles, 40 of which are off-road sectors. BWR events are unique because they are classic, long bicycle races that feature various off-road sectors emulating the pave or cobblestones of Europe, making the varied terrain a challenge for riders’ technical skills, equipment, endurance, luck, and versatility.
For a great road option, consider Gran Fondo Asheville, a jewel in North Carolina’s cycling crown and part of 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. Combining the thrill of competition with the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this event attracts cyclists from across the nation. Participants can choose from varying route lengths, each offering a different level of challenge and breathtaking scenery.
