Georgetown Pack Burro Race
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Georgetown Pack Burro Race, Georgetown, Colorado
The Georgetown Pack Burro Race is scheduled for May 23, 2026 in Georgetown, Colorado. This is the 22nd annual event and it uses a new approximately 6 miles course created after the 2025 washout of the Union/Empire Pass Trail. The route passes the Capital Prize Gold Mine, circles the east side of Georgetown Lake, and climbs onto the 1883 Saxon Mountain Trail. The start and finish are in downtown Georgetown.
Teams consist of one runner and one burro. Each burro must wear a packsaddle packed with prospector paraphernalia including a pick, gold pan, and shovel; missing or lost items on course can result in disqualification. The burro must be handled with a lead rope attached to a halter, with the lead rope limited to 15 feet. No riding is allowed. Other rules address control of the burro, acceptable use of jack or stud chains with pressure release technique, veterinary checks, and disqualification for mistreatment or use of needles, electric prods, or firearms. Out of state burros must meet health documentation requirements.
Registration requires that competitors already have a burro secured and know the burro’s name before registering. Burro rentals are available through operations that coordinate rentals and may carry wait lists. Camping is offered at Shadows Ranch, 1259 Alvarado Rd, Georgetown, CO, and a waiver is required for people on the camping property.
Recommended items for runners include trail shoes, gloves, at least one quart of water, food, a rain jacket, gaiters, hoof pick, and basic first aid and sun protection. Participants must sign the event waiver and follow course signs and traffic patterns while on the trail. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
