Estimated arrival time: TBD
We conclude in Preston at the corner of Preston Ave & White River Rd
While we still have a few more relay days left in Nevada, this is the biggest challenge the state has left to throw at us. Elevation-wise, it's not bad, with one 1500-foot climb and another 1000-foot ascent, but neither is particularly steep. It's the distance. 74 miles of hot, dusty work.
After a quick mile on Duckwater Rd, the ADT turns back to the northeast, winding along a series of minor tracks as it heads into modest hills. Keep an eye on your gps--there are quite a few intersections to navigate. 15 miles in, the route smoothes out into a more direct eastward progression, crossing County Route 1 and then following a broad dirt road. Merge onto Green Springs Road/White Pine County Road 5, heading back to the northeast. Having now covered an additional 10 miles, veer eastward on a smaller dirt track that eventually becomes Forest Road 624 as you enter Humboldt Toiyabe National Forest. Before long, you'll be heading south, which will continue for quite a while, until you reach the ghost town of Hamilton, now 34 miles into the stage.
The south-by-southeast progression continues for the remainder of the day. The next 14 miles carry you between the two high-elevation points of the stage, concluding with the second of those two ascents. Throughout, you'll follow Forest Road 402 / County Road 10, crossing over the White Pine Range and then plunging 1000 feet in 4 miles. 59.4 miles into the day, you'll pass the site of Willow Grove, continuing forward White Pine County Road 10. Indeed, you'll stick with WP CR 10 all the way to the finish line in Preston.
Support: A support vehicle will be accessible at White Pine County Road 5 (18 miles), White Pine County Road 9 (27.7 miles), Forest Service Road 405/402 intersection (53.2 miles), Willow Grove (59.4 miles), and US 6 intersection (68 miles). Water will be available to top off bottles, along with all necessary participant gear. Be prepared to cover additional miles between support vehicle access in the event of unforeseen road conditions.