Mt. Rose Hill Climb

Race Overview

The Mt. Rose Hill Climb is a fundraiser for Washoe County Search & Rescue, a non-profit team that provides year-round technical Search and Rescue services to the Washoe County community and surrounding mountains, rivers, lakes and deserts. Learn more about WCSAR

Important Race Course Update

• Date: July 18, 2026
• Change: Race route altered due to a new directive from the U.S. Forest Service.
• Course: Just under 10 miles out-and-back through the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
• Starting Point: Mt. Rose Summit Trailhead with scenic vistas of Lake Tahoe.

Course Description

This year's course will still involve an awesome hill climb. Upon reaching the waterfall, participants will take a left turn and wind up the switchbacks to meet Relay Peak Rd.

• Trail Features: Impressive ridge trail leading to the 10,338 ft. summit of Relay Peak.
• Return Route: Follow the ridgeline back to Relay Peak Rd. for a fast downhill finish.
• Markings: Course will be well marked, with volunteers stationed at intersections.
• Map Availability: A new course map will be posted soon!

Awards and Timing

• Prizes: Awards will be given to the top three finishers in each category and overall fastest runner.
• Timing: Event timed with stop watches by volunteers, not professional timers.
• Courtesy: Please be courteous to all volunteers during the event.
• Support: Thank you for supporting your local Search and Rescue Team!

Additional Details

Important Dates

• Packet Pickup: Friday, September 11th, from 4:00pm-6:30pm at Reno Running Company, 13987 S Virginia St, Reno, NV.
• Race Day: Saturday, September 12th, arrival between 6:30am and 7am.
• Packet Pickup: 6:30-7am for those unable to pick up on Sept. 11.
• Race Start: Staggered start from 7:30am-8:30am.

Parking

Please carpool if possible. Parking is limited due to USFS permit requirements. Possible parking options include:

• Parking Restrictions: Do not park in the main paved lot: use dirt lots on either side.
• Alternative: Prepare to be dropped off or park further up the road.

Aid Stations

Be prepared and self-sufficient with water and snacks:

• First Aid Station: Approximately 3 miles from the race start.
• Second Access: Reach this Aid Station again after summiting Relay Peak.
• Finishing Station: Water and snacks will be available at the finish.
• Reminder: Please bring enough snacks and water: we may run out.

Dropping/DNFs

If you need to drop out, please notify the nearest aid station or start/finish line volunteer. We will initiate a search for any participant not accounted for.

Weather

Check the weather ahead of time and be prepared. The event will be held rain or shine, except for extreme conditions or safety concerns.

Thank You!

Thank you for supporting Washoe County Search and Rescue!

For more information, visit the official race page.