The John Cappis 2026

What is the format and nature of this event?

The John Cappis Endurance Peakbagging 2026 is a free "fat-ass" mountaineering event. It is not a traditional race but a demanding off-trail mountain jaunt through the rugged San Juan Mountains. The event honors John Cappis, a Hardrock 100 founder and pioneering ultrarunner.

What are the course distances and categories?

• →50k category (listed for historical continuity only)
• →19-hour division (the primary category for registration)

What is the course terrain and elevation profile?

The course is approximately 50k with roughly 19,000 ft of elevation gain. The elevation ranges from 9,300 ft to at least 13,300 ft. The terrain is mostly off-trail and includes:

• →Scree slopes and perched boulder fields
• →Exposed ridges and avalanche chutes
• →Snowfields and river crossings

Where can I find the course maps and route details?

The course changes annually. You can view previous maps and descriptions via the following links:

• →2021 Map: Caltopo ↗
• →2022 Map: Caltopo ↗ and Google Docs ↗
• →2023 Map: Caltopo ↗ and Google Docs ↗
• →2025 Map: Caltopo ↗ and Google Docs ↗

GPS tracks can be exported via the CalTopo Export button or accessed directly on the CalTopo app.

What are the qualification requirements for participation?

This event is not open to all runners. Participants must be members of the Sky Pilots Endurance Navigators and demonstrate sufficient mountain experience, specifically:

• →Navigating rugged off-trail terrain (scree, boulder fields, snowfields, etc.)
• →Independent mountain navigation under difficult conditions
• →Ability to perform weather assessment and appropriate gear selection in alpine environments

Note: Completing 100-mile races like Hardrock or Barkley is not considered sufficient justification; the emphasis is on specific off-trail navigation skills.

What are the time limits and support levels?

• →Cutoff time: 19 hours
• →Support: Minimal, consisting of only a couple of basic checkpoints providing calories and fluids.
• →Remote Nature: Much of the course is remote, and rescue operations could take hours or days.

What weather and gear considerations should I be aware of?

Due to the high altitude and terrain, some years require ice axes and traction devices. Participants must be prepared for alpine environments. For river crossings, please monitor these gauges:

• →Mineral Creek (crossable when under 2 ft): Usgs ↗
• →Animas River (good when under 3 ft): Usgs ↗