Gold Rush Adventure Challenge
Dawn to Dusk

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The Gold Rush Adventure Challenge: Dawn to Dusk is a 12 hour adventure race set in one of the most spectacular landscapes in the United States.

Starting in Sausalito, CA, teams will navigate together by map and compass (no GPS allowed!) through the dramatic terrain of the Marin Headlands and paddle the waters of the San Francisco Bay..

Racers will move through a landscape defined by steep coastal ridges, ocean cliffs, historic sites, and sweeping views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the skyline of San Francisco.

Teams of 1 to 4 racers will trek, mountain bike, and paddle between checkpoints spread across the course. Each team receives a map and must choose how to navigate the terrain and collect checkpoints within the 12 hour time limit.

A central transition area in Sausalito allows teams to return to race headquarters between disciplines to change gear, regroup, and plan their next leg before heading back out on course.

The race is designed to be approachable for first time adventure racers while still offering meaningful strategy and physical challenge for experienced teams. Navigation is straightforward enough for newcomers to learn the sport while the terrain and route choices reward strong teamwork and efficient movement.

From sunrise to sunset, racers will cover ground across land and water in one of the most iconic adventure racing venues anywhere.

What to Expect

The course is designed as a multi discipline adventure with route choice playing a key role in how your day unfolds.

Distances will vary based on navigation decisions and checkpoint selection, but the course will roughly include:

Paddle: ~6 miles (we provide the boats)

Mountain Bike: ~30 miles

Trek / Run: ~14 miles

These disciplines will be broken up throughout the race. Teams should expect to move between activities multiple times, for example:

  • Paddle → Trek → Paddle

  • Bike → Trek → Bike

  • Mixed route combinations depending on strategy

The course is designed so that teams can choose how aggressive or conservative they want to be within the 12 hour time limit.

How the Race Works & Schedule

The Gold Rush Adventure Challenge: Dawn to Dusk is a 12 hour, team-based adventure race where navigation and strategy matter as much as fitness.

On race morning, teams will receive maps and final instructions before the start. Using map and compass navigation, no GPS, teams will plan their route and travel between checkpoints spread across the course.

Each checkpoint is worth points. Teams may choose their own route and decide which checkpoints to pursue within the 12 hour time limit.

The goal is simple: collect as many checkpoints as possible and return to the finish before the cutoff time (dusk).

A central transition area in Sausalito allows teams to return between disciplines to switch gear, regroup, and adjust strategy throughout the day.

Example Schedule (Subject to Change)

Friday (Optional)

  • Early check in and gear drop

Saturday, September 19

  • Morning check in and map distribution

  • Pre race briefing

  • Race start at sunrise (~7:15 AM)

  • Race finish at sunset (~7:20 PM)

  • Awards shortly after the finish

Final race details and exact timing will be shared in the Race Guide during race week.

Gear & Equipment

Adventure racing requires teams to be self-supported and prepared for a full day of movement across multiple disciplines. There are no aid stations, only transition areas (TA) where you will be able to change gear, clothing, and refuel- which you will prepare a TA bin beforehand.

Mountain Biking

  • Racers must bring their own mountain bike and helmet

  • Local bike rental options are available in the area if needed

Kayaking

  • All boats will be provided as part of the event. If you need a paddle, wetsuit, or PFD (life vest), let our team know during registration.

  • More details on boat assignments and format will be shared in the Race Guide

Required Gear

  • A full mandatory gear list will be provided prior to race day

  • All teams are required to carry essential safety and navigation equipment

  • There will be Transition Areas (TA) on the course to change gear, clothing and refuel.

  • Map and compass are required for all teams, NO GPS allowed!

This setup keeps the race accessible while maintaining the core elements of traditional adventure racing.

Location

Race headquarters will be based in Sausalito, a charming harbor town just north of San Francisco.

September is one of the best times of year in the Bay Area, with warm, clear weather often arriving during the late season, our “Indian Summer.”

Sausalito and San Francisco offer a wide range of accommodation options, restaurants, festivals and activities. Racers are encouraged to make a full weekend out of the event.

You can:

  • stay in Sausalito for easy access to race HQ

  • stay in San Francisco and travel across the Golden Gate Bridge, only a 15 minute drive or 20 minute ferry to Sausalito.

  • bring friends and family to enjoy the area while you race

  • explore trails, coastline, and nearby parks before or after the event

This is an opportunity to combine a race with a memorable weekend in one of the most iconic regions in California.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Still have questions? Take a look at the FAQ or reach out anytime. If you’re feeling ready, go ahead and register!

Register

  • No. This race is designed to be approachable for first time racers while still offering a challenge for experienced teams. If you are comfortable hiking, biking, and being outdoors for a full day, you can do this.

  • Navigation is map and compass based, no GPS. The course is designed to be straightforward enough for beginners to learn, while still requiring decision making and teamwork. It will be helpful to find a local orienteering club in your area to practice. If in the Bay Area, check out BAOC, NavX, and Terraloco.

  • You can race solo or as a team of 2, 3, or 4. Many people choose to race with friends, but solo racers are welcome. If you’re looking for a teammate, please reach out via the contact form and we can help you out!

  • A mountain bike is highly recommended. The course will include dirt roads, trails, and some pavement. Gravel bikes may work for some riders, but a mountain bike is highly recommended.

  • No. All boats are provided as part of the race and you CANNOT bring your own boat. Many racers bring their own PFD (life vest) and paddle, but if you need one, please notify our team at check-in and we can get you set up.

  • Basic comfort on the water is recommended. You should definitely know how to paddle and handle a boat. The paddling section will take place in the protected waters of San Francisco Bay, but wind and current can definitely add some spice. We recommend renting a kayak with SeaTrek before the race to explore the area and get comfortable on the water. The SF Bay is one of the most iconic places to paddle in the world!

  • That’s part of the sport. Many teams will not clear the entire course (get every checkpoint), and that’s expected. You can still have a great race, collect checkpoints, and finish within the time limit.

  • Yes. The format, navigation, and central transition area are all designed to make this an excellent first adventure race while still being engaging for experienced teams.

  • This is adventure racing, not your average 5k… A full Race Guide with schedule, gear list, logistics, and final instructions will be sent before race day.