SOLD OUT !!! ———12th Annual Dancing Bear Bike Bash Returns on September 19th, 2026
About the Event
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Dancing Bear Bike Bash as it returns to the scenic Smokies region on Saturday, September 19, 2026! This beloved annual cycling event offers three routes tailored for various skill levels: a challenging 45-mile journey, a rewarding 37-mile route, and an accessible 25-mile ride. Full support points will ensure your safety and comfort throughout the day. The highlight of this year's event is undoubtedly the post-ride gourmet lunch, meticulously curated by Executive Chef Jeff Carter at Peaceful Side Social. Enjoy a sumptuous spread featuring local delicacies, accompanied by live music performances that promise to elevate your experience. Complimentary beer from Peaceful Side Brewery adds to the festivities. Registration for packets opens on Friday evening, September 19th, starting at 5:00 PM at Peaceful Side Social and continuing on Saturday morning before race day from 7:30 AM at Dancing Bean Coffee House. All rides kick off around 8:50 AM under a full police escort through the picturesque Smokies curves. Post-ride festivities begin promptly at 10:30 AM, concluding by 1:45 PM. For detailed route information, utilize RIDEWITHGPS; it's free and provides essential navigation support leading up to the event day. The longest route has been adjusted to a more manageable 45 miles for seamless integration with lunch plans. A special thank you goes out to the Blount Partnership for their ongoing dedication and support in making this event possible. Accommodations are limited, but reservations can be made through DancingBearLodge.com or at recommended local options such as Little Arrow Resort, Highland Manor Inn, Tally Ho Inn, and Dogwood Cabin Rentals—all conveniently located in Townsend, TN. Book your stay today to fully immerse yourself in the vibrant community spirit of this beloved cycling event.
Races Offered
Event Riders - 22 Miles
Sep 19, 2026
straighten
Distance —
35.4K
terrain
Type —
Cycling
timer
26 days remaining
sell
$75.00
Event Riders - 38 Miles
Sep 19, 2026
straighten
Distance —
61.1K
terrain
Type —
Cycling
timer
26 days remaining
sell
$75.00
Event Riders - 45 Miles +
Sep 19, 2026
straighten
Distance —
Event Riders - 45 Miles +
terrain
Type —
Cycling
timer
26 days remaining
sell
$75.00
Event Riders - Friendly Bear
Sep 19, 2026
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Distance —
Event Riders - Friendly Bear
terrain
Type —
Cycling
timer
26 days remaining
sell
$75.00
Event Riders - Lunch Ticket for Guests
Sep 19, 2026
straighten
Distance —
Event Riders - Lunch Ticket for Guests
terrain
Type —
Cycling
timer
26 days remaining
sell
$50.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for September in Townsend.
thermostatTemperature
17.0° / 26.5°
wb_sunnyFeels like
16.9° / 26.5°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
9h 33m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
3.3 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
9.3 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
High
terrain
Course conditions
Hard and dry surface
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (5.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
74.5%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
07:01
nightlight
Sunset
19:24
About Townsend
Learn more about the host city, Townsend.
Townsend is a city in Blount County, Tennessee. The city was chartered in 1921 by persons who were involved with the Little River Railroad and Lumber Company. The population was 550 at the 2020 census. For thousands of years a site of Native American occupation by varying cultures, Townsend is one of three "gateways" to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It has several museums and attractions relating to the natural and human history of the Great Smokies.
