Race: San Juan Solstice 50
Runner: Coach Kyle Fulmer
Race Date: 06/20/2026
Location: Lake City, CO
Results: https://ultrasignup.com/m_results_event.aspx?did=133245#id2392586
Strava Activity Link: https://www.strava.com/activities/19003824675
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
- Old school vibes, and community feel! The whole town really does come out to support the race, and with a population of only 400 its a great way to meet almost every resident!
- Getting above 13k in elevation twice! Both climbs are so stout, and we are so lucky to spend that much time running up on the Divide!
- Old school tough. Aid stations were great, but fairly far apart – 9 and 10 miles during the heart of the race!
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
Nothing. Just a fantastic weekend and experience. Really does feel like a mini-Hardrock. From the area and terrain, to the briefing in the gym, to the post-race awards and breakfast, SJS is a terrific and well-loved event.
Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about this race?
Weirdest? Maybe that the ladies hosting the mile 45 aid station at Vickers’ had cold beer on ice for runners to grab and go! (and, yes I took a Banquet beer)
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
The climbs and views from the Divide were spectacular. Without much snow this year there was no glissading, but in most years you have to slide off of some pitches. Also the water crossings here shin deep instead of knee or hip deep! They say there are 7 water crossings, plan on about 20 🙂
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
About half the runners had poles. The climbs are long, but not overly steep in most places, plus the trails are quite narrow through the brush.
Lessons you learned that will help you next time around
The third climb doesn’t look too bad on paper — but it is LOOONG! Luckily you are in an aspen grove the whole time, but it goes on forever. 1.7-2k feet of climbing that late in the race, in the heat, was definitely the crux.
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
The creek crossings, and the snow, in a snow year! Lube up your feet, change shoes if you must, but know you will get very wet!
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
Stunning vistas and nearly every point. The only portion without views is the first half of the second climb on the jeep road. That portion is a bit of a grind!
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
One of the toughest, but also one of the best 50s in the country!
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
Well oiled machine! This was the 29th running of the race and the enthusiasm is still at an epic high. You can tell everyone involved in the race absolutely loves it.
Competition – Is there a strong field?
VERY. Always insanely tough CO field of runners, and the winner crossed the line in ~8:20 or so….just unreal!
Logistics – Does it require a special handshake, registration a year in advance, hotels all booked? Give us the low down on the nuts and bolts of making the race happen.
Small town, but everyone seems to find a place to stay. They even allow camping in town the couple of nights before the race. There is a lottery, but even if you’re 150th on the wait list, you’ll probably get in! They have a permit for 300 runners, and have never started a full field 😉
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
Standard fare, and very good! They did have coconut water on ice, which was an unexpected treat!
Weather and typical race conditions
Warm and sunny! The sun hits different at 8k+ feet, so 70s and 80s will absolutely cook you if there are no clouds. Bring sun protection, and also be prepared for the creek crossings, and possible snow field traversing.
Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next runner?
As mentioned, half the runners had poles. Gaiters could be a good call coming off the Divide sections. Sun protection probably wise as well.
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
Decently. There were two crew accessible aid stations. They seemed super crowded, so I would say for a mountainous 50 miler, that was pretty good!
How’s the Swag?
Classic t-shirt and collector’s item worthy hat! You get a different color hat for different time benchmarks, so run hard!
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
5 out of 5! Definitely want to go back next year and improve my time. Need to get that other hat 🙂
Kyle is a coach with Team RunRun. To learn more about him or to work with him, check out his coach profile.