When the air turns cool and the leaves turn gold, cyclists turn to Western North Carolina to experience the changing scenery from two wheels. Autumn group rides in the region feature options for all experience levels and highlight the gorgeous landscape while raising money for nonprofits.

Local cyclist Travis Collins says there’s much to love about cycling in the North Carolina mountains. “What I like most is the scenery, for sure. We have unbelievable cycling in our part of the world,” he says. “Our roads are in pretty good shape, and within a short drive you can be by yourself in the saddle.”

Read the full story for Mountain Xpress here.

Photo courtesy of the Tour de Pumpkin.