Ride for Old Fort: Pedal for Progress
Old Fort, NC, is a town defined by its trail-blazing spirit and its love of the outdoors. In a place where recreation and shared spaces have always brought people together, the loss from Hurricane Helene has been deeply felt.
Now, we have a chance to rebuild—not just what was lost, but what Old Fort deserves. This cycling event is more than a ride; it’s a promise. A promise to restore hope, to build recreational opportunities for families and visitors, and to support a community determined to rise stronger than before.
When you register, you’re not just signing up for a ride through one of North Carolina’s most beautiful landscapes—you’re helping create new places for kids to play, families to gather, and neighbors to reconnect. Every mile you pedal becomes an investment in Old Fort’s future.
Join us. Ride with purpose. Ride for Old Fort. Let’s rebuild joy, together.
McDowell Trails Association invites you to experience the 5th 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 2026 cycling season.
For 2026, the 5th Edition includes country roads and plenty of rolling hills. We have added a gravel option for 2026.
- The Hard Rock. Approximately 60 miles with 4,300 feet of climbing (4 SAGs).
- The Soft Rock. Approximately 35 miles with nearly 2,300 feet of climbing (2 SAG).
- The Alternative Rock (Gravel Ride). Approximately 30 miles with 2,300 feet of climbing.
The Hard Rock route and the Alternative Rock route are great training rides for any future events.
You will receive a tee shirt commemorating the event for those registered by April 1. You will need to select your size as part of registration.
The funds raised by the Rock n Roller will be used by the McDowell Trails Association to help create recreational opportunities in Old Fort.
Registration fees
Prices are inclusive of mandatory charges, items, and fees
The Hard Rock
Registration closes in 29 days 6 hours-
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 60-miles with stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the Grandfather Ranger District of the Pisgah National Forest. This route is a great training ride for any future events. The Hard Rock includes 3 SAG stops.
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$71.53
Early Bird
Nov 30 – Jan 31 -
Register for The Hard Rock$82.23Now registering Jan 31 – Apr 25
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The Soft Rock
Registration closes in 29 days 6 hours-
The shorter route of 35-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. The Soft Rock includes 1 SAG.
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$44.79
Early Bird
Nov 30 – Jan 31 -
Register for The Soft Rock$55.49Now registering Jan 31 – Apr 25
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The Alternative Rock
Registration closes in 29 days 6 hours-
Trade the pavement for the path less traveled with the Alt Rock. This 31-mile route offers a gritty blend of Forest Service roads and backcountry beauty through the Grandfather Ranger District of the Pisgah National Forest. With 2,300 feet of climbing, you’ll tackle punchy ascents and rewarding descents while surrounded by the raw, unpolished scenery of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s the perfect challenge for those who like their "Rock" with a side of dirt.
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$44.79
Early Bird
Nov 30 – Jan 31 -
Register for The Alternative Rock$55.49Now registering Jan 31 – Apr 25
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Rock n Roller Bike Routes
These routes are for the 5th Edition of the Rock n Roller. The routes may be altered, and the links will be edited as the routes are finalized.
Foothills Watershed
The Foothills Watershed will be our start/finish location.
Foothills Watershed is a bike park, brewery, and riverside hangout just minutes from downtown Old Fort. With progressive bike trails and plenty of space to relax or run free, it offers something for everyone. Watershed's in-house brewery produces a rotating selection of craft beers, brewed in a unique, small batch system. Paired with great BBQ, live music, and community events, this is more than just a bike park--it's a destination.
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
- Phone
- 828-442-3007
- Website
- Visit website
