Doggett Mountain Challenge (100 miles)
Saturday, July 12, 2025 – Start time: 7:30 AM
Ride With GPS Link: ridewithgps.com/routes/30056205
This zip file contains ‘ridewithgps’ audible turn-by-turn prompts (FIT and TCX) for each ride>> routes.zip
Warning:
This course is one of the toughest you will find east of the Rockies and should not be attempted by inexperienced mountain riders!
The course leaves from Mars Hill and offers rolling hills for the first twenty miles, climbing a total of 2200 feet by mile 20. Then as you roll through the valley in Sandy Mush you will see Doggett Mountain looming in front of you. With an average grade approaching 9%, the 5K-to-go and 4k-to-go stretch is the hardest; the grade lessens for two kilometers before kicking up for the last push to the top, reaching 3850′ elevation. After cooling off during an awesome descent into the beautiful Spring Creek valley there will be plenty of food and drink to recover! Next is a gradual long fast stretch along Spring Creek with great roads all the way to Hot Springs. Once in Hot Springs check out the stores and beware of pedestrians, slow moving cars and the rail-road tracks!
As you leave Hot Springs there is a four kilometer climb that intersects the Appalachian Trail at the top, and offers a spectacular view in either direction. The third rest stop is toward the bottom of the descent. After the rest stop, the course heads up the Laurel River then takes the Shelton Laurel fork (with rest stop #4 at the fire department) and slowly climbs to the base of Devils Fork.
Then comes five kilometer climb, with one 1/8-mile section attaining a 15% grade! The fifth rest stop is 1K below the top at Devil Fork gap where you cross into Tennessee and descend to Flag Pond.
Click map thumbnail for printable map.
Click here for printable cue sheet.
Once in Flag Pond, a 6K climb brings you back up to 3760′ at Sams Gap and into North Carolina (and the final rest stop). After a screaming descent comes one last climb over Murray Mountain with another screaming descent bringing us back to Mars Hill. After over 10,000 feet of total elevation gain you’ll be happy to see the finish line. Showers are available for men and women.
