The Historic Gold Hill and Mines Foundation will host the first Gold Rush 5K on Saturday at Gold Hill Mines Historic Park.

The Gold Hill Rail Trail is a protected railroad right of way developed by the LandTrust for Central North Carolina in partnership with the foundation. The narrow-gauge rail line was built in the 1880s to transport gold, gold refining equipment and supplies for New Gold Hill Ltd. Mining Co.

The trail, now owned by the Historic Gold Hill and Mines Foundation, is part of Gold Hill Mines Historic Park. It joins other trails developed along the old mining roads throughout the 70-acre park to create a scenic hiking, walking, jogging and biking trail.

The foundation says the Gold Rush 5K is a way to introduce the park and trail, as well as shopping opportunities in the village of Gold Hill, to outdoor enthusiasts across the region. The race is being coordinated with the help of David Freeze and SalisburyRowanRunners.org.

Proceeds from the Gold Rush 5K will benefit the Historic Gold Hill and Mines Foundation for Rail Trail maintenance and interpretive signage.

The park is at 735 St. Stephens Church Road in Gold Hill. More information is at www.historicgoldhill.com, vivian@historicgoldhill.com or 704-267-9439.