FKT Submission – Guadalupe Peak (Multiple Ascents)
I’m excited to submit my effort on Guadalupe Peak after an incredible day in the Guadalupe Mountains National Park.
A group of six of us traveled from Fort Worth, Texas with the goal of completing multiple summits of Guadalupe Peak in a single push. All six completed two full trailhead-to-trailhead laps, and three of us pushed on to complete a third.
The day began with heavy fog that gradually lifted as the sun rose, revealing clear skies and cool temperatures. Our first summit felt almost surreal—the views were expansive, and the experience was unforgettable. As the day progressed, we increased our pace, minimizing time between laps and maintaining strong efforts throughout.
Conditions shifted dramatically during my third ascent. Clouds rolled in quickly, followed by fog, wind, and eventually steady rain that intensified into a cold, torrential downpour near the summit. The descent became especially challenging, with water flowing down the trail, slick footing, low visibility, and strong winds. Despite these conditions, I was able to complete all three laps safely.
For the descent of Summit #2 and the entirety of Summit #3, I was running alone. I did pass my buddies along the way at several points. We left out supplies in the parking lot so that we could get more water and fuel as needed in between summits. This was a self-supported effort.
Recorded Times (Trailhead-to-Trailhead):
- 2x Summits: 00:04:57:51
- 3x Summits: 00:07:43:39
Based on the current listings, the existing FKT for “most laps in 12 hours” includes a 3-lap effort completed in approximately 9 hours and 15 minutes. While I did not exceed the total number of laps within the 12-hour window, my time for three laps is significantly faster.
Because of this, I would like to respectfully propose consideration for the following:
1. Recognition within the existing “laps in 12 hours” category
Given that my 3-lap time is faster than the current listed performance, it may be worth noting as the fastest known time for that lap count within the category.
2. Creation of additional categories for fixed lap efforts
Guadalupe Peak could support:
- 2x Summits (trailhead-to-trailhead x2)
- 3x Summits (trailhead-to-trailhead x3)
This would allow for direct comparison of like-for-like efforts and recognize performances based on total time rather than only maximum laps within a fixed duration.
3. (Optional consideration) A shorter time-window category (e.g., laps in 8 hours), though I understand if this adds unnecessary complexity.
This effort represents one of the most physically and mentally challenging days I’ve had in the mountains, and I’m honored to submit it for consideration. Guadalupe Peak is an incredible objective, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a rewarding challenge.
Lastly, a huge thank you to the crew who made the day unforgettable: Nathan, Erik, Ben, Sam B., and Sam P.
I appreciate your time and consideration, and I’m happy to provide any additional data or clarification if needed.