In 1997, North Carolina Amateur Sports, the North Carolina Division of Tourism, the North Carolina Department of Transportation and Capitol Broadcasting Company discussed the idea of starting a fully supported cross-state bicycle tour in North Carolina. Two years later in 1999, the Cycle North Carolina "Mountains to Coast" fall ride began its inaugural trek across the State of North Carolina. Sinc
e then, CNC has attracted participants from all 50 States and 8+ Countries, stopped overnight in more than 100 North Carolina towns, traveled more than 7,000 miles on the scenic back roads of the state and passed through more than 670 North Carolina communities. Cycle North Carolina has been voted "Best Biking in America" by the League of American Bicyclists and selected as one of the best events in the United States. This event offers 1, 2 or 3 days of cycling with various mileages to suite all ages and skill levels. All routes are loop rides and fully supported with rest stops, bike mechanics and event support vehicles. The event has been renamed the Coastal Ride. In 2014, CNC introduced the first Mountain Ride, held in August annually. The format mirrors the Coastal Ride, offering loop rides, rest stops, bike mechanics and event support vehicles. Cycle North Carolina is hosted by North Carolina Amateur Sports, a 501 (c)3 non-profit charitable organization.