Smoky Mountain News

Bicyclists, ghosts and goblins will be on the road for the Tour de Franklin “Halloween Hunard” charity bicycle ride on Sunday, Oct. 31. The race starts at 9 a.m. from Smoky Mountain Bicycles in Franklin, which sponsors the annual autumn ride.

More than 100 cyclists participated in last year’s ride. It’s popularity has spread because of the beauty of the courses, the festive Halloween atmosphere and the great post-ride meal.

Routes feature rides of 28, 66, and 103 miles with total climbing elevations ranging from 2200 to 8500 feet.

Smoky Mountain Bicycles owners Dave and Pam Forshee mapped out the routes to include spectacular mountain scenery when the fall colors are at their peak.

“We welcome volunteers — Halloween costumes encouraged — to help provide support at rest stops,” Pam Forshee said. “Last year, our generous sponsors and volunteers helped make the ride a great success.”

All proceeds will go to the Franklin Fire Department first responders and go toward the purchase of an automated cardiopulmonary resuscitation machine. Cost is $35 before Oct. 15 and $45 afterwards. The ride fee includes fully stocked rest stops, a commemorative custom t-shirt, and a post-ride meal. Sponsorships, which include the sponsors name on ride T-shirts are $100.

828.369.2881 or check out www.tourdefranklin.com for maps and cue sheets.

The Plateau Fly Fishing Club will hold its last meeting at 7 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 18, at the Albert Carlton-Cashiers library. The meeting will feature Jeff Curtis who will discuss fly fishing in the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Curtis is the co-founder of Curtis Wright Outfitters, camp director of Trout Unlimited’s “Rivercourse” and local guide for the past 15 years. His family operates Sourwood Inn outside Asheville.  

Following the presentation, a raffle featuring an Orvis 9’ 5 weight midflex rod and other fly fishing essentials will end the ninth season of the Plateau Fly Fishing Club. Event is open to the public. Call 828.885.7130 for information.