By Brian Fornea © 2009, All Rights Reserved

What would you consider to be the perfect day in the Smoky Mountains?  How about this… you’re on your bicycle riding along quiet country roads.  Your trail leads you through lush valleys and along the ridgeline that's beaming with brilliantly colored autumn leaves. The crisp mountain air flows over your body, keeping you cool as you tick off the miles: 25, 62, 100.  Want to come? Then join the 2009 Smoky Mountain Wheelmen Fall Century on October 10, 2009.

Now in its 36th year, the Century is hosted by the Smoky Mountain Wheelmen Bicycle Club.  Taking place outside Knoxville (in Loudon, TN), this one-day event makes the perfect road trip when visiting Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge or Sevierville, TN.  In a little over one hour, you can make your way from a luxury log cabin in the heart of the Smokies to a day filled with natural beauty, exercise and fun.

Everything You Could Want in a Ride

The Smoky Mountain Wheelmen know how to host a ride.  In addition to painted routes in three lengths - 25, 62 or 100 miles - you'll also receive sag and mechanical support. Participants can also look forward to rest stops that help you refuel with PB & J sandwiches, a variety of fruit, baked goods, water and sports drinks. Pre-registrants also get a 2009 Wheelmen Fall Century t-shirt. 

The cost is $30 before October 9th and $40 thereafter and the day of the ride.

About the Smoky Mountain Wheelmen Bike Club

In addition to offering a haven for bike enthusiasts, the Smoky Mountain Wheelmen Bike Club gives back to the community.  "We sponsor the cleanup of an adopted mile in West Knoxville and we support the Helmet Fund as well as several other local charities and nonprofit groups." 

The Center of Hope Helmet Fund

This organization collects new and used bikes to donate to underprivileged children in the local area.  It also ensures that each child receiving a bike gets a helmet to ensure his or her safety while riding.

Ride Location

The Wheelmen Fall Century will be held at Loudon Municipal Park in Loudon, TN - an easy drive from the Gatlinburg area.  Once in Loudon, go one mile east, turn left on Robertson Springs Road, then left into the park.

While you're in the Gatlinburg area for the Gatlinburg Craftsmen Fair and the Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival, make plans for a day trip to Loudon.  It's an excellent opportunity to enjoy an up-close ride through gorgeous scenery during the prime time for the changing of the leaves. In addition to getting some exercise, you'll also be helping a great cause.

Register before October 9, 2009, to save $10, receive a commemorative t-shirt and ensure your place in the Smoky Mountain Wheelmen Fall Century.

Brian Fornea is owner of Summit View Cabin Rentals offering luxury cabins in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Visit our Pigeon Forge rental cabins page today at to preview and book a cabin for your next Smoky Mountain trip.