Craven Gap – Tanbark Ridge Overlook loop from Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
Craven Gap – Tanbark Ridge Overlook loop from Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
4.7
(9173)
9,174
riders
Craven Gap – Tanbark Ridge Overlook loop from Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
03:20
46.7km
940m
Cycling
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 26, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Blue Ridge Parkway
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
3.09 km
Asheville City Hall and Courthouse
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
5.06 km
Chestnut Hill Historic District
Highlight (Segment) • Historical Site
Tip by
21.8 km
Craven Gap
Highlight • Mountain Pass
Tip by
22.9 km
Tanbark Ridge Overlook
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
26.0 km
Elk Mountain view & painted rocks
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
44.1 km
Pedego Asheville
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
46.7 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
23.8 km
15.4 km
6.86 km
517 m
130 m
Surfaces
36.5 km
9.25 km
918 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (1,100 m)
Lowest point (600 m)
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Weather
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Today
Wednesday 24 June
27°C
13°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a truly challenging and rewarding touring cycling experience near Asheville, the Craven Gap – Tanbark Ridge Overlook loop from Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College is definitely worth your time. This difficult 29.0-mile (46.7 km) route packs in a substantial 3094 feet (943 metres) of elevation gain, taking around 3 hours and 20 minutes to complete. It's an ideal choice for experienced cyclists seeking a significant workout and stunning mountain vistas on one of the popular cycling trails Asheville Blue Ridge Parkway offers.
What to expect on Craven Gap – Tanbark Ridge Overlook loop from Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
This loop takes you on a journey through diverse and picturesque scenery, primarily along well-paved surfaces suitable for road bikes. You'll encounter significant elevation changes, including the consistent uphill stretches leading to Craven Gap, a mountain pass at 3,132 feet. The route offers impressive vistas like the View of Craggy Dome and the View of Glassmine Falls, with the Tanbark Ridge Overlook providing expansive eastern views over Tanbark Ridge. Expect to pedal through dense forests that come alive with wildflowers in spring and vibrant fall foliage, making it a demanding ride that requires good fitness.
Planning your visit
Starting from Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, this route is largely composed of well-paved roads, though some segments of the broader Mountains to Sea Bicycle Route might include unpaved sections. The Blue Ridge Parkway is a highlight, and while no specific permits are mentioned for this loop, always check for any seasonal road closures, especially during winter months. Spring and fall are particularly scenic for wildflowers and foliage, while the Tanbark Ridge Overlook offers limited light pollution for evening rides. Consider the Asheville cycling routes elevation profile difficulty when planning your hydration and nutrition.
Trail details
- Distance: 29.0 miles (46.7 km)
- Elevation gain: 3094 feet (943 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 3 hours and 20 minutes
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