The John Cappis
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The John Cappis : Silverton, Colorado
The John Cappis is a mountain run near Silverton, Colorado held on June 27, 2026. The course and the exact start location vary depending on snow and stream conditions. The route is mostly off-trail and unmarked; a GPS track is provided.
The classic format is approximately 50 km with about 19,000 ft of elevation gain. Course elevations range roughly from 9,300 ft to 13,300 ft. There is a 19-hour cutoff for the main division; some course variants have allowed 20 hours. Runners receive credit for the distance completed within the time limit.
Participation is restricted to members of the Sky Pilots Endurance Navigators who can demonstrate suitable mountain experience. Applicants are waitlisted until their qualifications are reviewed; the waitlist process requires submitting qualifications within one week of applying.
Support on course is limited compared to typical ultraruns. Checkpoints provide basic calories and fluids at a few points. No pacers or caches are allowed and crew access is limited to designated locations. Much of the course is remote and rescue could take hours or days. Depending on conditions, ice axes or traction devices have been required in past years. Typical average speeds are between 1 and 2 mph; the men's record pace is noted at about 2.5 mph. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
