Haywood County’s newest recreation facility, Raccoon Creek Bike Park, will celebrate its grand opening on Saturday, Aug. 8, 2026. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Waynesville park will welcome the community for a day of riding, family-friendly activities and outdoor fun.

“This marks another step forward in expanding Haywood County's biking and outdoor recreation offerings,” said Corrina Ruffieux, Executive Director of Visit Haywood. “With the course already selected to host a UCI Pump Track World Championships Qualifier just two months after opening, we're excited to continue building our community’s reputation as a premier destination for outdoor biking and competitive cycling.”

Visitors will be among the first to ride the highly anticipated bike pump track while enjoying a lineup of grand opening festivities, including a live DJ, bounce house, food trucks and free Kona Ice for the first 200 attendees. Waynesville’s Base Camp and Haywood Recreation will host interactive games, and Pigeon River Bikes, local law enforcement and first responders will showcase equipment and engage with guests throughout the event.

“Our goal has always been to create a space that encourages people of all ages and abilities to get outside and enjoy Haywood County’s natural beauty,” said Kevin Ensley, Chair, Haywood County Commissioners. “In addition to the bike pump track and skills course, the park also features a walking and biking path, adventure playground and picnic pavilions, offering both active recreation and more relaxed outdoor gathering spaces.”

Professional freestyle BMX cyclist Angie Marino (@a_ngiemarie) will be in attendance as one of the first riders to experience the course. The grand opening also serves as a preview of the park’s first major competition, the UCI Pump Track World Championships Qualifier, taking place on September 12, 2026. The competition will bring elite riders across the region to Haywood County.