California Coast Classic cycling tour set for September return
Eight-day ride travels from San Francisco to Los Angeles
– The Arthritis Foundation announced its 2026 Cycling Experiences, which include two multi-day bike tours and an expanded virtual participation option.
The events include the Carolina Hills Classic Bike Tour from May 14 to May 17, the California Coast Classic Bike Tour from Sept. 26 to Oct. 3, and a “Ride Your Way” option that allows participants to complete rides remotely. The organization said the events support fundraising efforts for nearly 60 million adults and children in the United States diagnosed with arthritis.
The Carolina Hills Classic will take place in Asheville, North Carolina, and will follow its original route after changes in previous years due to Hurricane Helene. The four-day tour will travel along the Blue Ridge Parkway, pass through Brevard, and continue through the Biltmore Estate before extending into the Greenville, South Carolina, region.
The California Coast Classic marks its 26th year. The eight-day, 525-mile ride will travel from San Francisco to Los Angeles and include a route from Big Sur to Cambria following the reopening of Highway 1 at Regent’s Slide, which had been closed since 2022.
The Arthritis Foundation expanded participation through the “Ride Your Way” option, which allows individuals to fundraise and complete rides from any location. The organization said the option aims to increase accessibility for participants regardless of location or schedule.
“The Carolina Hills Classic and California Coast Classic represent the power of movement and community in action,” said Steven Taylor, president and chief executive officer of the Arthritis Foundation. “These rides bring people together from across the country to support a mission that affects millions of families, while proving that arthritis does not define what’s possible.”
The organization said both tours are part of its Cycling Experience program, which promotes physical activity. The rides are supported and designed for cyclists of varying abilities, with training resources, fundraising support, meals, and on-route assistance available. Participants include individuals with arthritis and caregivers.
“Whether you’re riding along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, through the Carolina hills, or participating virtually, every rider is part of something bigger,” said Shannon Marang Cox, national senior director of the Arthritis Foundation Cycling Experience. “These events are about unforgettable experiences, but they’re also about fueling hope and progress for those living with arthritis.”
The Arthritis Foundation also announced a partnership with Fuel Goods, a sports nutrition marketplace. Laura Jorgensen, chief executive officer and co-founder of Fuel Goods, will serve as a mission ambassador. Fuel Goods will act as the official fueling partner and provide discounts, on-site activations, product sampling, and an online store, with a portion of proceeds supporting the foundation.
Registration and fundraising information for the events are available online.
