Even as the Carson Valley Days carnival prepares to open in Gardnerville and Douglas High grads are preparing to matriculate in Minden, the annual Pony Express Re-ride will be hoofing it through Carson Valley on Thursday.
The 2025 National Pony Express Re-Ride departs 2 p.m. Wednesday from Old Sacramento heading east.
With a mostly full moon to guide them and clear weather, the California rider is expected to arrive in Woodfords around 1 p.m. to turn over the mochila to Nevada’s contingent and Genoa at 3 p.m.
Each year, the National Pony Express Association commemorates the legendary 1860-1861 Pony Express mail service by organizing this cross-country relay. Riders in authentic attire carry a mochila filled with commemorative letters, honoring a vital chapter in U.S. communication history.
This year’s journey will span over 1,900 miles and continue 24/7 on horseback, following the original mail route to St. Joseph, Missouri, with arrival expected at 7:30 p.m. June 21 at the steps of the Patee House.