June 27 » Valle Crucis
While safe and exceptionally scenic, this challenging annual cycling event is not for the faint of heart. The ride consists of two courses: one is a strenuous 95-mile route that climbs Snake Mountain; the other is a shorter but still tough 45-mile excursion. Both routes start and finish at the Valle Crucis Elementary School; share the same roads for the first 33 miles; enjoy climbs up Mast Gap, Rush Branch, and Georges Gap; and showcase the scenic beauty of Ashe and Watauga counties. The nonprofit BSG Inc. promotes recreational cycling events in the High Country. Proceeds from their events help meet the needs of the underserved in the local community. » Valle Crucis Elementary School, 2998 Broadstone Rd., Sugar Grove; Saturday, 7:30 a.m.; $110+; www.bloodsweatandgears.org