RAPID CITY, S.D. (KOTA) – Riders, history enthusiasts and communities along the Pony Express Trail are preparing for the 2026 National Pony Express Re-Ride, a special event that coincides with the nation’s semiquincentennial celebration.
The Missouri Pony Express President will officially open the event at 2 p.m. CDT on Monday, June 15, with the first rider departing from the Patee House in St. Joseph, Missouri, at 3 p.m.
The more than 1,900-mile journey will continue around the clock on horseback, following the original 1860-1861 Pony Express mail route through eight statesL Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, Colorado, Wyoming, Utah, Nevada, and California.
The non-stop relay is scheduled to conclude in Old Sacramento, California, at 4:30 p.m. PDT on Thursday, June 25.
Riders dressed in authentic period attire will carry a traditional mochila containing 1,570 commemorative letters, honoring the historic mail service that helped connect the nation during a pivotal time in American history.
The National Pony Express Association hosts the annual re-ride to commemorate the legendary Old West mail service, but this year’s event carries added significance as part of the America 250 celebration marking the nation’s 250th birthday.
One of the featured America 250 events will take place Tuesday, June 24, in Carson City, Nevada, where the National Pony Express Association will partner with the Carson City Historical Society to present “Saddle-up Carson City.” The event will include a special presentation by Chautauquan Kim Harris, who will share the story of Warren Upson and the important role the Pony Express played in helping keep the Union connected.
More information about the America 250 Pony Express events is available through the National Pony Express Association.