Start time: 7am

Meet at the parking lot for The Maze - Washoe Lake State Park. Note that there is a $5 entrance fee for the park. Carpooling is encouraged.

Estimated arrival time: High Noon

While the "official" endpoint for the stage is the Virginia City Visitor Center, be prepared that the special event will bring you, if you're so inclined, a little further through town.

This is a short stage--compared to most of the relay stages--but don't be deceived. The journey from Lake Washoe to Virginia City involves a significant ascent, and the track is completely exposed. The hardest work comes in the first half of the walk, climbing over 2000 feet over the course of 6 miles. After that, the worst is over--aside from the heat. The route loops around Nine Hill, passes north of McClellan Peak and Mount Scott, and skirts the edge of the Five-Mile Reservoir. The final approach follows the Ophir Grade into town.

While we hope that all relay participants end their day feeling like they've accomplished something meaningful, if you decide to walk or ride today, you've got something special coming...

Event: Virginia City Parade - Noon

The people of Virginia City will meet us as we cross into town at Fourth Ward School. Led by a local rider on his Penny Farthing, we will then parade across town, all the way to the turnoff for Six Mile Canyon. Be ready to wave to the crowd!

Take heed: The support vehicle will not be able to reach participants on this stage, so you will need to carry all water/food necessary to get you through these 12 miles.