Enjoy an early spring event that showcases why McDowell County is a cycling destination.
McDowell Trails Association invites you to experience the 3rd Edition of the Rock n Roller, a bike ride that showcases what makes McDowell County a cycling destination. You experience the scenic beauty of the mountains, rivers, and foliage. This early spring ride serves as an excellent training ride to set the tone for the remainder of the 2024 cycling season.
For 2024, the 3rd Edition includes country roads, plenty of rolling hills, and a NEW 45-mile gravel ride option.
- The Rollin' Stones Gravel Grind--Approximately 45 miles with 4,300 feet of climbing (2 SAGs).
- The Hard Rock. Approximately 62 miles with 4,200 feet of climbing (4 SAGs) with an additional 10 mile option
- The Soft Rock. Approximately 30 miles with nearly 2,300 feet of climbing (2 SAG) with an additional 10 mile option
- "Off the Couch" Fun Ride--10 miles with 570 feet of climbing led by an experienced cyclist.
Riding the Assault on Mount Mitchell or Marion? The Hard Rock route would be a great training ride. If you like to get a few more miles in, an additional 10 miles can be added that takes you to Andrews Geyser, a top Old Fort tourist attraction. The optional 10 miles is an out and back from the start/finish.
There will be food and beer for refueling at the finish! You will also receive a tee shirt commemorating the event for those registered by April 1. You will need to select your size as part of registration.
Come see for yourself the revitalization of downtown Old Fort where businesses and organizations like People on the Move for Old Fort, the G5 Collective, US Forest Service, McDowell Technical Community College, and Hillman Beer are leading impressive economic growth.
The funds raised by the Rock n Roller are used by the McDowell Trails Association to plan, develop, build, and provide education and support for greenways, blueways, and trails in McDowell County, NC.
Registration fees
The Rollin' Stones Gravel Grind Closed
Online registration closed-
Gear up gravel enthusiasts for an unforgettable journey through nature's grandeur. It's 45-miles of challenging terrain and gravel paths. Whether you are a seasoned cyclist looking for the ultimate gravel challenge or a beginner looking to conquer your first gravel ride, the Rollin' Stones Gravel Grind welcomes you. Saddle up, and get ready to roll with the stones.
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$65.00
Early Bird
Oct 30 – Feb 1 -
$75.00Feb 1 – Apr 27
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The Hard Rock Closed
Online registration closed-
Kick off your Spring training with cycling friends with this perfect blend of rolling hills and epic climbs. You will ride along country roads for 62-miles with stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the Grandfather Ranger District of the Pisgah National Forest. Riding the Assault on Mount Mitchell or Marion? This route would be a great training ride. If you like to get a few more miles in, an additional 10 miles can be added that takes you to Andrews Geyser, a top Old Fort tourist attraction. The optional 10 miles is an out and back from the start/finish. The Hard Rock includes 3 SAG stops.
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$65.00
Early Bird
Oct 30 – Feb 1 -
$75.00Feb 1 – Apr 27
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The Soft Rock Closed
Online registration closed-
The shorter route of 30-miles is FUN! With a little training, anyone can do it. We designed the route to be a perfect experience for new cyclists who want to test their skills in an organized cycling event. If you like to get a few more miles in, an additional 10 miles can be added that takes you to Andrews Geyser, a top Old Fort tourist attraction. The optional 10 miles is an out and back from the start/finish. The Soft Rock includes 1 SAG.
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$40.00
Early Bird
Oct 30 – Feb 1 -
$50.00Feb 1 – Apr 27
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Rock n Roller Promotional Video
Rock n Roller Bike Routes
These routes are from the 2024 Edition of the Rock n Roller. The routes may be altered, and the links will be edited as the routes are finalized.
"Off the Couch" Fun Ride
The “Off the Couch” Fun Ride to Andrews Geyser and back. This ride option is FREE.
This 10-mile, out and back, road ride enjoys rural NC terrain, winding roads, easy/moderate climbs leading to Andrews Geyser. Although riders could shoot for their personal best time on this ride, several riders will leisurely climb their way up, meeting other riders, having fun and enjoying Old Fort, NC. Riders will take a quick break at the geyser, take some pictures and then saddle back up for the faster ride back down to Old Fort.
This ride will start after the riders of the road and gravel routes have left, approximately 9:30 a.m.
Rock n Roller 3rd Edition Ride Guide
Get the details for the Rock n Roller 2nd Edition in this informative Ride Guide.
Lodging Information
If you plan to spend some time in McDowell County (we hope you do), here is a list of recommended Lodging Options from the McDowell Tourism Development Authority.
Contact information
- Event contact
- Molly Sandfoss
- Molly.Sandfoss@gmail.com
- Phone
- 828-442-3007
- Website
- Visit website
