MotorsportsSince 195630 min from Reno

Virginia City Grand Prix 2026

America's Oldest Hillclimb Motorcycle Race

Motorcycles tear through the same streets Mark Twain walked, climbing brutal hillsides on terrain unchanged since the 1860s silver rush. Part race, part pilgrimage, 100% Nevada.

WhenApril 24-26, 2026
WhereVirginia City, Nevada
Tickets$20-40
From Reno30 min drive
Get Tickets →View Schedule

What to Expect

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Hillclimb Racing

Riders attack steep mining roads on the outskirts of town. The terrain is unforgiving — loose rock, ruts, and grades that seem impossible.

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Historic Setting

Virginia City is a living ghost town. Wooden boardwalks, 1860s saloons, and the Comstock Lode mines are the backdrop.

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Vintage Classes

Classic motorcycles from the 60s-80s compete in dedicated vintage classes. Fan favorites every year.

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Saloon Culture

The after-party scene in VC's historic saloons is legendary. Bucket of Blood, Silver Queen, and more.

2026 Schedule

Friday, Apr 24

8:00 AM
Registration & Tech Inspection

Riders check in

10:00 AM
Practice Runs

Riders preview the course

2:00 PM
Vintage Bike ParadeDon't Miss

Classic motorcycles through C Street

6:00 PM
Rider Meeting

Mandatory briefing

Saturday, Apr 25

8:00 AM
Racing BeginsDon't Miss

Hillclimb heats start

12:00 PM
Lunch Break & Vendor Village

Food, beer, merchandise

1:00 PM
Afternoon Heats

Competition continues

5:00 PM
Day 1 Results
7:00 PM
Racer PartyDon't Miss

Live music, awards, after-party

Sunday, Apr 26

8:00 AM
Final HeatsDon't Miss

Championship rounds

12:00 PM
Finals & Shootout

Top riders face off

3:00 PM
Awards Ceremony

Trophy presentation

Local Tips

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Drive up Friday, stay the weekend

Virginia City has limited lodging that books up fast. Many spectators stay in Reno and drive up each day (30 min).

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Bring cash

Some VC businesses are cash-only. ATMs get long lines during the race.

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Layer up

Virginia City is at 6,200 ft elevation. April mornings are cold, afternoons warm, and wind is constant.

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The saloons are half the experience

Bucket of Blood, Silver Queen, Delta Saloon — historic bars that've been pouring since the 1860s.

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Arrive early Saturday

Parking fills up by 9 AM on race day. The hillclimb viewing areas are first-come, first-served.

Getting There

From Reno (30 minutes)

Take US-395 South to NV-341 East. Follow signs to Virginia City. The road climbs through Geiger Grade with stunning views of Washoe Valley.

Pro tip: The drive itself is part of the experience — twisty mountain roads perfect for motorcycles. Many riders make a loop via Gold Hill and Silver City.

Get Directions →

FAQ

What is the Virginia City Grand Prix?▼
Started in 1956, it's America's oldest hillclimb motorcycle race. Riders compete on a brutal course through Virginia City's historic streets, mining roads, and steep hillclimbs — terrain unchanged since the Comstock Lode days.
Where is Virginia City?▼
About 30 minutes southeast of Reno via US-395 and NV-341. It's a historic mining town preserved from the 1860s silver boom.
Do I need tickets?▼
Yes. Spectator passes are typically $20-40 per day. Kids under 12 are free. Tickets available at vcgp.com or at the gate.
Where are the best viewing spots?▼
The hillclimb sections on the outskirts of town offer the most dramatic action. C Street (main street) is great for seeing riders between stages.
Can I ride my own bike there?▼
Absolutely. Many spectators ride their motorcycles to Virginia City. Parking areas designated for bikes. It's a pilgrimage for the Nevada moto community.
Is there food and beer?▼
Yes. Virginia City's saloons and restaurants are open, plus vendor village at the event. The Bucket of Blood Saloon is a local institution.
What categories of bikes race?▼
Multiple classes including modern dirt bikes, vintage bikes, sidecars, and exhibition classes. The vintage classes are fan favorites.

Plan Your Trip

Where to Stay

Hotels in Reno (30 min away)

Outdoor Adventures

More riding and trails

April Events

What else is happening