Carolina Hills Classic Returns to the Blue Ridge Foothills in 2026 

The second annual Carolina Hills Classic Bike Tour rolls back into the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains in May to raise funds for resources and research to find better treatments, and ultimately a cure, for arthritis — the #1 cause of disability in the U.S. The iconic bike tour brings with it the spirit of connection, community and purpose that defines the Arthritis Foundation. 

The Carolina Hills Classic is a four-day bike tour between Asheville, North Carolina, and Greenville, South Carolina. On May 14, it will begin in Asheville, its originally planned start line, restoring signature experiences that were unavailable in 2025 due to Hurricane Helene’s impacts. With a combination hub-and-spoke and point-to-point format that showcases the beauty and charm of this premier road cycling destination, the tour will take riders through the historic grounds of the Biltmore Estate, along the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway and through the mountain community of Brevard — known as the “Land of Waterfalls” — finishing with a celebration in Greenville on May 17. 

Riding for Nearly 60 Million People  

Nearly 60 million adults and children in the U.S. are diagnosed with arthritis and living with the challenges it brings, such as joint pain and swelling, limited mobility and mental health concerns. Funds raised by Carolina Hills Classic participants and the broader Arthritis Foundation Cycling Experience power the Arthritis Foundation’s: 

• Groundbreaking research initiatives seeking the next generation of treatments for inflammatory and non-inflammatory types of arthritis  

• Advocacy efforts at state and federal levels 

• Free patient education programs and resources 

Participants commit to raising or self-funding a minimum of $4,000, fueling progress toward better treatments, stronger policies and improved quality of life for millions of people. 

A Fully Supported, Inclusive Experience 

Designed for cyclists of all abilities, the e-bike friendly Carolina Hills Classic blends a hub-and-spoke and point-to-point format, with hotel accommodations, SAG support, professional mechanical assistance, well-stocked rest stops and catered meals throughout the tour. Riders receive training plans, coaching resources and fundraising assistance, as well.  

Whether you’re a seasoned endurance cyclist or tackling your first multi-day tour, you’ll find a welcoming community ready to support you from starting line to finish. 

Can’t Join the Tour? Make an Impact Your Way 

Sample a single day of the Carolina Hills Classic as a Champion Rider! Join the tour on Day 1 to experience the starting line excitement in Asheville and choose from a 47- or 60-mile loop ride to Marshall, North Carolina. Or pedal the final 71 miles in Greenville on Day 4, crossing the finish line to a fanfare welcome and sharing in the closing ceremonies. The $250 Champion Rider Package includes the Carolina Hills Classic commemorative cycling jersey, mechanical and SAG support, ample rest stops, social events and meals. 

For those who can’t travel — or who want to involve their local community — the Ride Your Way virtual option removes geographic and scheduling barriers. Ride without limits and create your own cycling adventure to ride your way — anywhere, anytime. Pedal in your home, at spin class, ride solo, with your cycling club or over lunch with work colleagues. Select a goal that is meaningful to you, fundraise from anywhere and ride on your own schedule, alone or as part of a team. 

This flexible option opens the door for more riders to support people with arthritis and join the Cycling Experiences community.