Race up a to an historic silver mine for glory and fun!
Overview
Are you ready to test yourself on one of California’s most legendary uphill runs? The Cerro Gordo Silver Run is an 8-mile climb with 4,600ft of vertical gain along the historic Yellow Grade Road, taking you all the way to the ghost town of Cerro Gordo, once the richest silver mine in California. This is more than a race. It is a pilgrimage, a challenge against gravity, time, and yourself.
At the summit, celebrate your accomplishment with a giant mountaintop BBQ, live music, games, and the chance to explore the abandoned town. Each runner receives a limited-edition Silver Run 2026 t-shirt and finisher’s medal. The winner’s name is engraved in silver and enshrined in Cerro Gordo’s history. This race welcomes all, from teenagers running with their parents to an 81-year-old racing to the top.
Check out the video from 2025's Silver Run!
Course
The Cerro Gordo Silver Run climbs historic Yellow Grade Road, originally carved in 1865 for mule trains transporting silver. Expect steep, sustained uphill gradients, rocky stretches, and desert conditions. The trail rewards perseverance with stunning views of the Eastern Sierra and the surreal ghost town at the finish.
Key highlights include:
Stunning views of the Eastern Sierra
Historic mining structures at Cerro Gordo
Aid stations approximately every mile
Pop-up recovery lounge at the summit with hammocks and portable ice baths
Cutoff Details
Aid Stations
Aid stations are provided roughly every mile along the course. Each station offers water, electrolytes, snacks, sunscreen, and encouragement. The first aid station is around 2 miles from the start, with a total of six stations.
Logistics
Schedule
Friday, May 22, 2026
4:00PM to 8:00PM: Bib pick-up and registration at bottom of Cerro Gordo Rd at Highway 136
Saturday, May 23, 2026
6:00AM to 7:30AM: Registration continues at the starting line
8:00AM: Race start
10:00AM to 2:00PM: Finish line celebration, mountaintop BBQ, live music, and exploration of Cerro Gordo
Bib Pickup
Bib pick-up begins on Friday, May 22 from 4:00PM to 8:00PM at the bottom of Cerro Gordo Rd where it intersects with Highway 136. Registration continues on Saturday, May 23 from 6:00AM to 7:30AM. Please arrive early to ensure you are ready for the 8:00AM start.
Drop Bags
Drop bags are allowed and can be left at the top recovery area. Any unclaimed bags after the race will be held at the race headquarters for collection the following day.
Crew & Pacers
Volunteers
Volunteers are essential for aid stations, parking support, and shuttle operations. To sign up to volunteer, contact christy@cerrogordomines.com. Specific volunteer services include:
Aid station support
Shuttle operations
Parking lot guidance
Finish line assistance
Swag & Medals
Each runner receives a limited-edition Silver Run 2026 t-shirt and finisher’s medal. The winner’s name will be engraved on the silver trophy permanently on-site.
Getting There
Los Angeles International Airport is approximately 250 miles from Keeler, California.
Las Vegas McCarran International Airport is approximately 300 miles from Keeler, California.
Bishop Airport is approximately 40 miles from Keeler, California.
Driving Directions
Passes & Permits
No passes or permits required.
Parking
Multiple parking lots are available in Keeler on race day. Volunteers will direct participants. Shuttles transport runners back to these lots after the race.
Lodging
Camping is available in Keeler, CA less than 1/4 mile from the start for $20 per spot.
Lone Pine, CA is 15 miles from the start with hotels, motels, and RV parks.
BLM Land camping is available for free for up to 14 days in the surrounding area.
Requirements
This is a challenging 8M mountain race with nearly 4,700ft of vertical gain. Participants should be physically prepared for desert conditions and steep uphill terrain. Prior long-distance or elevation running experience is recommended.
Mandatory Gear
Participants are encouraged to bring hydration, sunscreen, and appropriate trail footwear.
Policies
Cancelations & Deferrals
Race registration fees are non-refundable. Deferrals may be considered on a case-by-case basis. Participants who cannot attend are encouraged to transfer their registration to another runner.
Race Policies
Kid & Youth Policy
Children are welcome to participate with parent supervision. All participants must complete the full 8M distance under parental guidance. No separate youth discounts are offered, but family participation is encouraged.
Charity & Beneficiary
Proceeds support the preservation and maintenance of the Cerro Gordo historic site.
About Brent Underwood
Disclaimer
We make every effort to provide accurate and up-to-date information on Kåduka, but details may change. Please always confirm the latest information on the official race website. See something that needs correcting? Send us a note at feedback@kaduka.app