Pollock Pines, CA — Riders, history enthusiasts, and communities along the historic Pony Express Trail are gearing up for the 2026 National Pony Express Re-Ride. This year’s event promises to be an extraordinary milestone as it aligns with the nation’s semiquincentennial. The Missouri Pony Express President will officially open the event at 2 p.m., and the first rider will depart from the Patee house in St. Joseph, Mo. at 3 p.m. CDT on Monday, June 15, 2026.
The grueling, 1,900+ -mile journey will continue 24/7 on horseback, following the original 1860–1861 mail route across eight states. The non-stop relay will conclude with the final rider arriving in Old Sacramento, Calif. at 4:30 p.m. PDT on Thursday, June 25, 2026. Riders in authentic attire will carry a traditional mochila packed with 1,570 letters, honoring a vital chapter in U.S. communication history.
Honoring the Past, Celebrating America 250
Each year, the National Pony Express Association (https://npea.getblankspace.com/?ref=thecomstockchronicle.com) (NPEA) commemorates the legendary Old West mail service by carrying a historical mochila filled with commemorative letters. However, the 2026 Re-Ride holds unique historical significance.
An America 250 highlight of this year’s re-ride will take place on Tuesday, June 24, 2026, in Carson City, Nev., where the NPEA will partner with the Carson City Historical Society to present “Saddle -up Carson City”. Special Presentation by Chautauquan Kim Harris – listen to the story of Warren Upson and the important role the Pony Express played in keeping the Union connected. nationalponyexpress.org/celebrating-the-250th-birthday-of-america (https://npea.getblankspace.com/celebrating-the-250th-birthday-of-america/?ref=thecomstockchronicle.com)
“Community support is what keeps this tradition alive, but tying this year’s ride into the America 250 celebration adds a profound layer of pride,” said Petra Keller, NPEA Corresponding Secretary. “The Pony Express exemplifies the enduring American spirit of perseverance and connection. We invite everyone to come out to Carson City and all along the trail to celebrate this monumental piece of our collective heritage.”