The Waucheesi: Wicked, Wily, & Wondrous
Course Description
- The Wily 88 (88 miles): For the daring. This route features a punishing 11,500+ feet of climbing, including the challenging Basin Gap, North River Road, and a spectacular climb to Farr Gap.
- The Wondrous 63 (63 miles): A "no joke" intermediate course with 8,800+ feet of elevation, taking in the best gravel in the area, including Basin Gap and North River Road.
- The 38 Special (38 miles - New for 2026): A slightly more accessible option, this course still provides a challenging "climby" gravel experience, featuring the Rafter Community loop and stunning scenic, while leaving out the longest, most brutal climbs.
Event Highlights
- Epic Views: Rides through the Cherohala Skyway corridor, Cherokee National Forest, and along the scenic Bald River.
- Post-Race Celebration: Finish back at Tellico Grains Bakery for wood-fired pizzas, refreshing beverages, and high-fives.
- Challenging Gravel: A true test of endurance with high-elevation, remote, and often rowdy gravel roads.
- Fully Supported: Four fully stocked aid stations to keep you fueled.
- Prizes: Podium prizes for the top three finishers in each category for the 88 and 63-mile distances.
Essential Details
- Start Time: 8:00 AM
- Packet Pick-up: Saturday 6-8 PM or Sunday from 6 AM at Tellico Grains Bakery.
- Time Requirements: To ensure safety and a, by-sunset finish, strict cutoff times are in place for the 63 and 88-mile courses. If you are on the 88-mile course, you must have lights at rest stop 4 after 6 PM.
- Drop Bags: Allowed! Clearly mark your name and desired rest stop.
- Recommended Bike: Gravel bike or mountain bike.
Check Out The Waucheesi
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I expect from The Waucheesi's terrain and riding conditions?
The Waucheesi takes you through Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests on a mix of forest roads and gravel with plenty of elevation change. Expect long, challenging climbs, fast descents, and spectacular Appalachian vistas - this is a true adventure that rewards riders with breathtaking scenery and engaging mixed-surface riding.
What are the three distance options, and which one is right for me?
The Wily 88 (11,500+ feet of climbing) and Wondrous 63 (8,800+ feet) are competitive distances featuring iconic climbs like Basin Gap, North River Road, and Farr Gap - with prizes for top finishers in each category. The 45-mile option (4,100 feet) is a fantastic tour of Cherokee National Forest and Bald River for riders seeking a challenging but less intense experience, though it doesn't award prizes. Choose based on your fitness level and how much climbing you're ready to tackle.
What tire and gear recommendations do you have for The Waucheesi's gravel sections?
Bring a gravel-ready setup with tires suited for mixed terrain - you'll encounter everything from smooth forest roads to rowdier gravel. Check the event website for detailed gear recommendations closer to race day, and consider your climbing ability when choosing gear ratios for the sustained elevation gain on all three distances.
Are there aid stations on the course?
Check the event website for the latest details on aid station locations and services. Given the remote beauty of Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests, it's wise to carry extra water, nutrition, and repair supplies regardless.
What is the sunset cutoff time, and how does it affect the longer distances?
All riders must be finished by sunset, which means the 63 and 88-mile distances have specific time requirements to ensure safety in the national forests. Check the event website for exact time cutoffs for each distance - finishing before dark is essential in this remote terrain.
Is The Waucheesi suitable for riders new to gravel events?
The 45-mile option is a great introduction to gravel adventure with manageable climbing and a scenic tour through Cherokee National Forest. If you're considering the longer distances, be honest about your climbing fitness - this is a challenging event designed by Chris Joice to test all skill levels, but the community vibe and post-ride celebration make it rewarding for riders of all backgrounds.
What should I know about parking and logistics in Tellico Plains?
Check the event website for parking details, start location, and any shuttle services. Tellico Plains is a small mountain town, so arriving early is a smart strategy to secure parking and soak in the local adventure-seeking community atmosphere.
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