Belgian Waffle Ride Asheville

National Gravel Series

⛰️ Scenic
🪅 Festival
🏆 Prizes
🎗️ Charity Ride
Event Date

Jul 20, 2025

Location

Asheville, NC

Discipline

Gravel

About

Conquer epic climbs and gravel sectors in the Hell of the East.

The Belgian Waffle Ride (BWR) Asheville is famed as the 'Hell of the East,' blending the spirit of European Spring Classics with the rugged beauty of North Carolina. The 2025 edition returns as the fifth annual running, supporting hurricane recovery efforts with route modifications for both challenge and safety. Riders of all levels tackle a mixed-surface course—gravel, rocky, and paved terrain—with three race distances: Waffle (long), Wafer (medium), and Wanna Ride (short). Both pros and amateurs enjoy fully supported rides with aid stations, VIP experiences, and signature BWR flare.

COURSE DETAILS

2025 route details are unconfirmed, but expect a grueling mixed-surface course featuring gravel, paved roads, rocky sections, steep climbs, relentless ascents, and fast descents through the Asheville countryside. The Waffle is the longest, followed by the Wafer and Wanna Ride options. Weather is typically hot, humid, and variable in October.

Race HIGHLIGHTS

  • Nicknamed "THE HELL OF THE EAST" for relentless climbing
  • Mixed-surface route: gravel, pavement, rocks, and hills
  • Three course options for all skill levels
  • Hurricane recovery-inspired route adjustments
  • Pros and amateurs compete together
  • Frequent aid stations (every ~20 miles)
  • VIP experiences and post-race festivities
  • Unique finisher rewards: waffles, beer, and Bad Ass Ale trophy

RIDE TYPES

Gravel Endurance
Gran Fondo

Event Location

Race overview

Course Length

Waffle: ~134 miles (2023 precedent), Wafer: ~75 miles, Wanna Ride: ~35–40 miles. 2025 distances will be similar but exact details to be announced.

Elevation / Elevation Gain

Asheville city elevation: ~2,134 ft / Elevation gain (Waffle 2023 example): 13,000+ ft. 2025 course may have minor adjustments.

Terrain

Mixed surfaces: gravel sectors, paved roads, rocky and technical sections, steep climbs and fast downhills.

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