World-Class Adventure Racing in Central California
Explore our exciting lineup of adventure races. From iconic classics like the multi day Gold Rush Mother Lode to all-day challenges that test your endurance, each race is a unique journey through Central California's breathtaking terrain — and our backyard.
Upcoming Events
Mount Tam
2026
Past Events
All Out Events Checkpoint Challenge & Mammoth to Bishop 36-Hour Adventure Race
In June 2021, All Out Events and Gold Rush joined to forces to put on two races in one: a 6-Hour Mammoth Checkpoint Challenge and the Mammoth-to-Bishop 36-Hour Adventure Race. This allowed for both newbies to the sport (drawn in by the recurrence of Eco Challenge airing on Amazon Prime) and experienced racers to race together. Both races included kayaking, mountain biking, trekking and navigation in the gorgeous mountains of the Eastern Sierra. The 36-Hour race served as a qualifier for USARA Nationals.
Summer Challenges
Held at New Melones Lake, these early June races had 4-, 6- and 12- hour options for biking, trekking and paddling through the park with stiff competition from both Northern and Southern Californian teams.
We brought the Summer Challenge back in July 2024 with a 24-hour adventure race and a 6-hour Bike/Trek event at Barrett Cove Recreation Area.
Night Os and Day Os
These navigation training events are held in spring and summer (usually on full moons for the Night O) to both teach navigation and provide nav practice for our racers at Lake McClure, our local playground.
Mother Lode Expedition Races
From 2000-2013, Gold Rush organized multi day expedition races in California's Sierra Mountains, combining disciplines like navigation, trekking, biking, ropes and paddling. Mother Lode Races were a staple for the West Coast AR community.
The Gold Rush team is looking to hand the reins over to the next generation of race and course directors to bring the Mother Lode events back on calendars in 2028
24- to 36-Hour Adventure Challenges
From 2000 to 2022, Gold Rush organized 24- to 36-hour (with one eight-hour “Cold Rush”) Adventure Challenge races in California's Stanislaus National Forest, combining disciplines like navigation, trekking, biking, ropes and paddling.
We’re working on permitting for a 2026 Adventure Challenges in Mount Tam, California.