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Pony Express Re-Ride Crosses Nevada Division June 22–24, Celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary

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Pony Express Re-Ride Crosses Nevada Division June 22–24, Celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 11, 2026

Pollock Pines, CA — The annual Pony Express Re-Ride will traverse the Nevada Division June 22–24, covering one of the longest and most demanding stretches of the original route. As the nation approaches the United States Semiquincentennial, this segment highlights the endurance, innovation, and determination that helped connect a rapidly expanding country.

Riders will follow the historic trail across Nevada’s vast basins and mountain ranges, passing through key relay points and communities that once sustained the Pony Express system. Notable locations include Grubb's Well Pony Express Station and Schellbourne Pony Express Station, both essential desert stations where riders depended on scarce water and fresh mounts to continue their journey.

The route continues west to Fort Churchill State Historic Park, a major military post that supported communication and travel across the region, and into Dayton, one of Nevada’s earliest settlements. From there, riders pass through Carson City, the state capital and a historic hub of western expansion, and Genoa, Nevada’s oldest permanent settlement.

The Nevada Division concludes near Stateline, marking the transition toward the Sierra Nevada and the final push westward into California.

This stretch of the Pony Express route was among the most grueling. Riders crossed hundreds of miles of isolated desert and rugged terrain, often facing extreme heat, cold nights, and long distances between stations. Despite these challenges, the relay system operated with remarkable precision, demonstrating the feasibility of rapid communication across the American frontier.

“The Nevada Division represents the ultimate test of endurance on the Pony Express trail,” organizers said. “It showcases the determination and coordination required to move messages across some of the most unforgiving landscapes in the West.”

Local communities and historic sites along the route will host rider exchanges, educational events, and public gatherings, allowing visitors to experience this living tribute to American history.

Nevada Route Highlights:

  • Ibapah, Utah
    Monday, June 22 | Approx. 5:30 AM PDT
    The handoff point from the Utah Division, continuing the westbound journey through the rugged heart of the American frontier.
  • Schellbourne Rest Area @ Hwy 93
    Monday, June 22 | Approx. 12:15 PM PDT
    Sites that once served as critical hubs for Pony Express and Overland Stage lines.
  • Cold Springs
    Tuesday, June 23 | Approx. 7:00 PM PDT
    Remote desert outposts where the endurance of riders and horses is tested by arid terrain.
  • Fort Churchill
    Wednesday, June 24 | Approx. 7:45 AM PDT
    A Civil War-era military post, once a key Pony Express station.
  • Dayton, NV
    Wednesday, June 24 | Approx. 10:45 AM PDT
    Witness an exchange in front of the historic Union Hotel in downtown Dayton, NV.
  • SPECIAL EVENT: Saddle Up, Carson City – starting at 10 AM 
    Benson’s Feed Store - 2750 US-50, Carson City
    Wednesday, June 24 | 10:00 AM PDT
    Carson City Historical Society & National Pony Express Association are proud to present Chautauquan Kim Harris portraying Pony Express Rider Warren Upson. Come listen to the story of Warren Upson and the important role the Pony Express Played in keeping the Union connected and witness a mochila exchange!
  • Carson City, NV (South Curry & West 2nd St)
    Wednesday, June 24 | Approx. 12:30 PM PDT
    The state capital, where riders will go past rich historical landmarks.
  • Genoa Courthouse, Genoa, NV
    Wednesday, June 24 | Approx. 2:30 PM PDT
    Nevada’s first settlement, where history breathes through preserved pioneer heritage.
  • Stateline, CA
    Wednesday, June 24 | Approx. 5:30 PM PDT
    The Nevada Division will be handing over the mochila to the California Division. 

More events - https://www.facebook.com/expressrider

Though the Pony Express operated for only 18 months from 1860 to 1861, its impact was profound. It proved that fast, reliable communication across vast distances was possible, helping to unify the nation during a critical period and laying the groundwork for future advancements.

As the United States prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, the Pony Express Re-Ride stands as a powerful reminder of the courage, ingenuity, and pioneering spirit that helped shape the nation—connecting people across miles of frontier and generations of history.

Public Welcome!
Spectators are encouraged to attend the mochila exchanges, meet the riders, take photos, and engage with local Pony Express volunteers at each major stop. Forts and interpretive centers along the route will offer special programs and trail information.

Follow the ride live via GPS tracking at https://nationalponyexpress.org/re-ride/follow-the-ride/. Spectators are welcome at various handoff points and historical landmarks.

#2026PonyExpressReride #PonyExpressReride2026 #PonyExpressAmerica250th

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