About the Breakaway

The Blue Ridge Breakaway is an annual cycling event to support the initiatives of the Haywood County Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber services the towns of Waynesville, Maggie Valley, Lake Junaluska, Canton and Clyde.

The Blue Ridge Breakaway is an adrenaline pumping ride through county lanes, scenic byways and the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. The ride begins at the Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center which is conveniently located off of Interstate 40 and Highway 23/74.

With a variety of routes specifically designed for riders of all skill levels, the Blue Ridge Breakaway is sure to please. Beginners and avid cyclists alike will find challenging rides to meet their individual needs. Space is limited on the Century ride due to Parkway restrictions. Sign up early. First come, first served!

Haywood County also offers recreational activities, a quaint downtown area for shopping, and a wealth of restaurants showcasing local culinary talent for riders and their families to enjoy while visiting the area. Visit haywood-nc.com for additional information on Haywood County.

Directions to the Ride

Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center
91 N. Lakeshore Drive
Lake Junaluska, NC 28784

Coming from East (from Asheville-25 miles)

From I-40, take exit 27 onto US 19-23.
Drive 3-4 miles.
Do not take exit 104 -- it is easy to get lost.
Take exit 103 and drive about 1 mile until you see Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center front entrance gates on the right.
Bear right and follow the main road to the Bethea Welcome Center.

Coming from West (from Knoxville- 92 miles)

From I-40, take exit 20 toward "Lake Junaluska, Maggie Valley".
Bear right on the ramp.
Drive 7 miles until you come to the stop light.
Turn left at the light and drive 3 more miles until you pass the second stop light.
The Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center front gates will be on your left shortly after.
Turn left and follow the main road to the Bethea Welcome Center.

Coming from Atlanta- 172 miles from Midtown

I-85 North to I-985 North.
At Gainesville, GA take 365 North to 441 North into NC.
Just past Dillsboro, NC, 441 merges with US 74 which will turn into 23/74.
Take Hwy 23/74 North Lake Junaluska/Maggie Valley Exit (102-B).
Travel two miles then turn right on US 19.
The entrance to Lake Junaluska is approximately ¼ mile on left.
Turn left and follow the main road to the Bethea Welcome Center.