Registration begins this week for the second-annual Blue Ridge Breakaway bike ride, which is scheduled for Aug. 20. The cycling event brought more than 300 riders to Haywood County last year.

The event will feature a century (105 miles), metric century (65 miles), a 40-miler and a 24-mile ride. All routes will begin at the Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center, located off Interstate 40 and U.S. 23/74. Riders will explore the mountain valleys near the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Pisgah National Forest and in the shadow of Cold Mountain. The century ride will also include 30 miles on the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway.

According to a review on active.com from a 2010 participant, “This (the Blue Ridge Breakaway) was an awesome event.  The entire experience exceeded all my expectations. It was superbly organized. The route was picturesque, challenging, and traffic was light.  I cannot say enough good things about the way this ride was put on.  The volunteers were so gracious and supportive. I can’t wait until next year’s event.”

Riders can pre-register online at www.blueridgebreakaway.com.  Additional route descriptions, maps, and cue sheets are also available online.