VeloSolutions UCI Pump Track World Championships (Qualifier) September 11-13, 2026
Welcome to Haywood County
Welcome to Haywood County—where adventure runs deep and the mountains set the pace. We’re excited to host the Velosolutions UCI Pump Track World Championships (Qualifier) racers in our corner of Western North Carolina. Saturday, September 12.
Here, every turn leads to something worth discovering. From the lively charm of Waynesville to the wide-open views of Maggie Valley, the lakeside calm of Lake Junaluska, and the authentic mountain spirit found in Canton and Clyde, Haywood County is built for both high-energy moments and easygoing exploration.
While you’re here to ride, we invite you to stay a little longer—wander our trails, savor local flavors, and experience the kind of mountain hospitality that keeps people coming back.
Ready to Ride?
Get pumped for the new Raccoon Creek Bike Park
September 11-13, 2026
VeloSolutions UCI Pump Track World Championships USA Qualifier
Elite athletes hit the track as they prepare for race day.
- Velosolutions UCI Pump Track World Championships USA Qualifier
Elite can earn the last spots for the World Championships in Beijing. - Pump Track Challenge for Juniors & Masters
- Workshops
- Bike Safety Courses
- Bike Maintenance Workshops
- Music & Fun
- Bike & Helmet Swap
Getting here
Traveling to Haywood County, North Carolina, for the Velosolutions UCI Pump Track World Championships (Qualifier) is simple and scenic. Nestled in the mountains of Western North Carolina, Haywood County is easily accessible by air and by car from many major East Coast cities.
Flying to the region
The closest airport is Asheville Regional Airport (AVL), located approximately 30–40 minutes from Haywood County. AVL offers nonstop flights from many major U.S. hubs, making travel to the mountains convenient from across the country.
Airlines serving Asheville Regional Airport include American, Delta, United, Allegiant, and Sun Country, with direct connections from cities such as Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas, Chicago, Washington, D.C., and New York-area airports.
Driving to Haywood County
Haywood County sits at the intersection of several major highways, including Interstate 40 and U.S. 23/74, making it an easy drive from many East Coast destinations.
Approximate drive times include:
- Asheville, NC – 30 minutes
- Greenville, SC – 1 hour 30 minutes
- Charlotte, NC – 2 hours 30 minutes
- Atlanta, GA – 3 hours
- Knoxville, TN – 2 hours
- Raleigh, NC – 4.5 hours
- Charleston, SC – 4.5 hours
- Washington, D.C. – 7 hours
Once you arrive, the drive into Haywood County offers a welcoming introduction to the region’s mountain scenery and hospitality—setting the stage for an unforgettable event experience.
Lodging specials
At Lake Junaluska, we offer a variety of lodging options to fit your needs. Guests attending the UCI Pump Track World Championships Qualifier will receive a 20% discount by using the promo code PUMP26 at the time of booking. Offer valid 09/05-2026-09/20/2026
25% off any stay in September. Offer valid 9/1 – 9/30, 2026. Call or Email to Book. (828) 944-0610 | maggievalleyyurtsandcabins@gmail.com
15% discount on 2 night stays use code PUMP15 or 20% discount on 3 night stays use code PUMP20. Offer valid 9/9/26-9/15/26
Peppertree Resort is offering a 20% discounted rental rate for athletes and attendees of the UCI Pump Track World Championships Qualifier event. Offer valid 9/10-9/13, 2026. Call or email Peppertree Resort directly to book. (828) 926-3761 | info@peppertreemv.com
Five mountain towns to explore
Haywood County is home to five distinctive mountain towns—each offering its own sense of place:
