Pollock Pines, CA – May 20, 2025 — The Pony Express National Re-Ride, an annual tribute to the legendary mail service of 1860–1861, gallops into Nebraska on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, as the Wyoming Division hands off the mochila (the leather mail pouch) to the Nebraska Division at Lyman, NE. This spirited reenactment, celebrating the daring young riders and historic trail, will carry the mail eastward through Nebraska, highlighting key heritage stops before handing off to the Kansas Division at the state line.
This year’s ride, running 24 hours a day in true Pony Express fashion, retraces the original 1,966-mile route from St. Joseph, Missouri, to Sacramento, California, over a 10-day span. Riders relay the mochila on horseback, carrying commemorative letters and honoring one of America’s most iconic mail delivery systems.
Nebraska Route Highlights:
- Lyman, NE (June 18)
Wednesday, June 18 | Approx. 2:30 PM MDT
Handoff point from Wyoming Division. A ceremonial exchange marks the start of Nebraska’s leg of the journey.
- Scottsbluff National Monument
Wednesday, June 18 | Approx. 4:45 PM MDT
Riders pass through this historic landmark that once guided pioneers and Pony Express riders alike.
- Chimney Rock National Historic Site
Wednesday, June 18 | Approx. 7:15 PM MDT
The iconic natural formation serves as a dramatic backdrop for the route and a photo opportunity steeped in western lore.
- Colorado Division carries the Mochila from Chappell to Big Springs
Thursday, June 19 | Approx. 2:30 AM MDT To Thursday, June 19 | Approx. 6:00 AM MDT
- Tri-Trails Park, Ogallala
Thursday, June 19 | Approx. 8:30 AM MDTA celebration and educational event is planned here as riders arrive, showcasing Nebraska’s deep ties to pioneer trails, including the Pony Express, Oregon Trail, and Texas Trail.
- Time Change from MDT to CDT
- Midway Ranch (south of Gothenburg)
Thursday, June 19 | Approx. 8:30 PM CDT
A significant midway point through the state. Riders are expected to pass through during the night, maintaining the non-stop tradition.
- Fort Kearny State Historical Park
Friday, June 20 | Approx. 4:45 AM CDT
A scheduled daylight stop allows the public to witness the mochila exchange and learn more about Fort Kearny’s pivotal role in 19th-century frontier communication.
- Oak
Friday, June 20 | Approx. 2:00 PM CDT
A welcoming community with local celebrations honoring the history of the Pony Express.
- Rock Creek Station State Historical Park
Friday, June 20 | Approx. 8:15 PM CDT
Once a Pony Express station, now a living history site, Rock Creek offers a step back into the 1860s. Riders are expected to arrive here in the early morning hours.
- Nebraska-Kansas State Line (June 20)
Friday, June 20 | Approx. 10:00 PM CDT
The Nebraska Division passes the mochila to the Kansas Division, continuing the eastbound journey toward St. Joseph.
Follow the Ride:
Spectators and history enthusiasts are encouraged to follow along the route, attend events at the featured stops, and experience a living piece of American history in motion. Schedules are approximate and subject to change based on weather and trail conditions.
About the National Pony Express Association (NPEA):
The NPEA is a nonprofit, volunteer-led organization dedicated to preserving the history and legacy of the Pony Express. Through education, reenactments, and community events, the NPEA keeps the spirit of the Old West alive for generations to come.
About the Pony Express Annual Re-Ride
The Annual Re-Ride is a living history event that celebrates the legacy of the Pony Express, which operated from April 1860 to October 1861. Though short-lived, the service became legendary for itsdaring riders, rugged terrain, and commitment to fast mail delivery across a developing nation. Spanning over 1,800 miles across eight states, the Pony Express Re-Ride is a 24/7 non-stop relay involving hundreds of riders and horses. Commemorative letters are carried in a mochila, just as they were over 160 years ago. The re-ride is both a living history experience and a logistical achievement, preserving the spirit of the original Pony Express.“This event bridges generations and geography, “ said Petra Keller, Corresponding Secretary, National Pony Express Association. “We ride to honor those fearless messengers of the past and to keep their memory alive for future generations.”
Public Welcome!
Spectators are encouraged to attend the mochila exchanges, meet the riders, take photos, and engage with local Pony Express volunteers at each major stop. Forts and interpretive centers along the route will offer special programs and trail information.
Follow the ride live via GPS tracking at https://nationalponyexpress.org/re-ride/follow-the-ride/. Spectators are welcome at various handoff points and historical landmarks.
