The Virginia City Gold Rush is back for its fifth year! Back this year is the 5k Competitive wave. Runners choosing this option will start before the rest of the field - this is intended for athletes on sports teams who want to run FAST! Of course, anyone not currently on a team but with a competitive itch to scratch is welcome to choose this option as well. For those looking for something less intense, the always fun 5k Recreational wave and the kid friendly 1 Mile Fun Run are great choices!
New this year, the start is now at the Virginia City Ballfield. Runners make a "parade lap" around the ballfield and then follow gravel roads down and around Virginia City before returning to the ballfield to run around the bases and finish on home plate! This is a cross-country style course all on gravel roads with a tough uphill finish that will test your lungs and legs! The 1 Mile Run follows the upper loop of the 5k course, please see the map below (all loops are run counterclockwise).
Stick around for refreshments and awards, plus you'll be sure to want to spend some time in Virginia City to see the sights afterwards! Be on the lookout for the stage coach, narrow gauge train, and many other historical features! The Virginia City Goldrush is put on by the Virginia City Chamber of Commerce as part of its continual effort to support tourism, local business, and the community.
Saturday August 22, 2026
8:30 - 9:15am - Race day bib pickup and in-person registration at the Virginia City Ballfield
9:30 - 5k Competitive Men start (Middle School, High School, and Adult divisions)
9:32 - 5k Competitive Women start (Middle School, High School, and Adult divisions)
9:34 - 5k Recreational start
9:36 - 1 Mile Fun Run start
10:30 onwards - Awards and refreshments, plus Old West finisher certificates for all participants
5k - $15
1.2k - $5
5k race day walk up registration - $20
Please note that a limited selection of race t-shirts will be available for purchase on race day for $15 (cash, check, or Venmo)
Womens Course Record 25:04 - Eliza Pommerville, 2025
Mens Course Record 18:45 - Tyler Noland, 2024
New Course for 2026 - New Course Records up for grabs!