Turquoise Trail Pack Burro Race in Cerrillos

Turquoise Trail Pack Burro Race in Cerrillos

Come race in the beautiful former mining town of Cerrillos, New Mexico! Set in the historic and scenic Cerrillos hills this quaint western town is the perfect back drop for fast single track burro race or a hike in the hills with your burro. 

The race will start on Saturday, May 4 at 10:00am on the Main Street area of the village of Cerrillos and follows the trails of the scenic and historic landscape of Cerrillos Hills State Park.

There are two courses, one approximately 6 mile route and a 3 mile route. All racers on the 6 mile course will follow the Western Pack Burro Association race rules. 

About Pack Burro Racing: This race is one of 14 pack burro races in California, Colorado, Arizona, and New Mexico supported by the Western Pack Burro Association.

The sport originated in Colorado as a draw for small town tourism and a way to promote the working heritage of the American Burro in mining communities.

The Western Pack Burro Association helps support races across the west and provides rules for racers and burro (donkey welfare). Below is a sample of race rules and more information can be found at packburroracing.org

• Runner must control the burro with a lead rope no longer than 15ft.

• Burros only, no horses or mules.

• Strict animal welfare guidelines are to be followed- no hitting or excessive pulling on anyanimal at any time. The race director has full authority to remove any racer for apparentor perceived abuse.

• Animals are subject to veterinarian inspection pre or post-race at the race director’s discretion.

Date: Saturday, May 4, 2024 

Location: Cerrillos, New Mexico