GRASS VALLEY, CA — The Rotary Club of Grass Valley announced the launch of “Share the Road, Gold Country,” a public safety campaign urging drivers and cyclists across Nevada County to practice mutual respect on local roads in advance of the annual Rotary Gold Country Challenge on Saturday, June 6, 2026.
The Gold Country Challenge, benefiting local youth programs, draws hundreds of cyclists each year to ride routes ranging from 18 to 100 miles through the historic back roads of Nevada County, along the scenic Yuba River, and past the landscape of California’s gold rush country. All proceeds benefit scholarships, leadership programs, and support for area schools.
“We want our community to embrace these riders the way we embrace everything that makes Nevada County special. That means drivers giving three feet of space, cyclists riding responsibly, and all of us treating these roads as the shared treasure they are.”
— Bob Long, Gold Country Challenge Founder
Under California law, drivers are required to provide a minimum of three feet of clearance when passing cyclists on public roads. The campaign will also reach cyclists, encouraging safe practices including riding single file, using hand signals, keeping front and rear lights active, and obeying all traffic signs — reinforcing that riders on Gold Country roads are community ambassadors as much as athletes.
The Gold Country Challenge begins and ends at the Grass Valley Fairgrounds, 11228 McCourtney Road. Routes include the 18-mile Wolf Creek Challenge for recreational riders, plus 35-, 55-, 75-, and 100-mile options. Full SAG support, rest stops, and a post-ride meal are provided. Online registration is open through June 4 at rotarygoldcountrychallenge.com.
About the Rotary Club of Grass Valley
The Rotary Club of Grass Valley is part of Rotary International, a global network of 1.4 million volunteers united by the motto “Service Above Self.” The club has served the Nevada County community for over 100 years through charitable giving, community programs, and events like the Gold Country Challenge. Learn more at gvrotary.org.