Cycling & running events in Cleveland, 2026

Cleveland Training Notes

Running: Locals get a lot done on the Cleveland/Bradley County Greenway, where over 5 miles of lighted path runs along Mouse Creek through Greenway Park and Tinsley Park. The route covers 2 miles around Downtown Cleveland and Lee University with an optional second lap. Downtown Cleveland gives easy base miles between the Greenway and Ocoee Street. The Greenway is a 2 mile system, plus the White Loop and Blue Loop. Cleveland Half Marathon, 10k & 5k and the Summer Sizzler 5k races anchor the calendar.

Cycling: Cleveland Area Cyclists keeps the ride scene simple because cycling is more fun with a buddy. Locals spin the Cleveland Greenway, roll Historic Downtown Cleveland, and use the club Routes page for favorite roads and trails. King's Slough starts gravel days on Parksville Lake, where the Chili Pepper route goes around 20 miles from King's Slough to Pace Gap and 55-Peavine-Sheeds also rides around 20 miles. The 40 Mile Big Frog Loop brings bigger Cherokee National Forest work. Candies Creek Ridge, Mouse Creek/Lead Mine Ridge, Blue Springs Ridge, the Tennessee Valley Divide, and Big Frog Mountain hold the climbs. Cohutta 100, SERC Mountain Bike Race, and Black Bear Rampage are the anchor dirt races.

Season: Spring and fall suit Cleveland best for steady Z2, long runs, and bigger rides. Summer starts early, because the Little Debbie 7 Family Fun Run points runners toward pavement before the summer heat, and the July Summer Sizzler 5k keeps things fast and flat with sun in the mix. Locals treat hot months like interval season, with short efforts on the Forum loop or shaded trail time at Johnston Woods. Winter keeps both sports moving, because Terra Trot shifts to 5pm and the Greenway stays useful for easy miles, while riders keep base miles close before heading back toward the ridges.