San Juan Solstice 50 Mile
Lake City, United States • 20 Jun 2026
Course Information
The San Juan Solstice 50 Mile Benefit Run takes place in the mountains near Lake City, Colorado. The course is affected by seasonal conditions. In some years, the route has been altered or shortened due to snowfields on the Continental Divide. The Alpine Gulch area can present challenges like dangerous creek crossings and steep snowfields. An aid station on the Continental Divide can be inaccessible by vehicle in some conditions.
Event History
The event was first held in 1995 as the Lake City 50. The race is now a benefit for the Lake City EMTs. In 2002, management was turned over to the Lake City community. The race date was moved to be near the Summer Solstice, sometimes falling on the Saturday before or after June 21. Historical issues, including snowpack and lightning risk, have influenced date selection. Future races will be scheduled after June 21.
Registration and Participation
Entry is determined by a lottery system. A prerequisite for entry is completion of a prior trail ultra run. Participants must be 18 or older and have significant high mountain experience. Live tracking is provided via a service called MAProgress. Every runner is required to carry a compatible tracking device, which can be their own, borrowed, or rented. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.