White Pine Solstice Runs

Event Overview

The White Pine Solstice Runs offer three trail running distances in the Oquirrh Mountains near Tooele, Utah. The courses are designed to provide scenic and challenging mountain running experiences. The event is USATF sanctioned.

Race Courses and Details

The three available distances are:

• 55 km: A mountain race with significant elevation gain.
• Half Marathon: Approximately 13.9 miles.
• 8.5 Miler: Approximately 8.5 miles.

The courses travel through White Pine and Settlement Canyons. Runners will use steep canyon roads, single-track trails through aspen and pine groves, and rugged ridgelines. The routes offer views of Tooele, Salt Lake, and Utah Counties, as well as several mountain peaks including Kelsey Peak, White Pine Peak, and Tooele Peak.

The 55 km course features extensive time at high altitude, with eight miles above 9,000 feet and two miles above 10,000 feet. It includes several significant climbs and visits multiple peaks. Aid stations are placed at Butterfield Pass (miles 3 and 8.2) and Settlement Canyon (mile 21.5). The race has hard cutoffs at mile 21.5 (9 hours) and the finish (14.5 hours).

The Half Marathon course goes to Butterfield Pass, the Oquirrh Mine Overlook, and the summit of Butterfield Peak East before returning. It has one aid station at Butterfield Pass (miles 3 and 8.2) and a hard cutoff at the finish (4.5 hours).

The 8.5 Miler course goes to Butterfield Pass and the summit of Butterfield Peak East before descending. It has a hard cutoff at the finish (3 hours).

Event Philosophy

The organizers focus on the course experience. They describe the event vibe as low-key, with minimalist aid stations and modest awards for the top three men and women in each distance. Course routes are changed annually with a focus on scenery and challenge. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.