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. It’s very likely we would have continued moving if the weather did not take a turn for the worst.
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. We left out supplies in the parking lot so that we could get more water and fuel as needed in between summits.
It’s wild that I was even able to get three round-trip summits after my left foot started hurting. I’ve been having some left planter fascia trouble for the last four months. Halfway through this effort th bottom of my left foot was very tight and uncomfortable on every step to a point where I was to stop after two summits. I prayed for healing of my left foot in the name of Jesus and guess what? Within minutes there was zero discomfort anymore. I was able to finish summit #2 and go for a third. Praise God. Super surreal moment for me that I will forever remember.
Recorded Times (Trailhead-to-Trailhead):
- 2x Summits: 00:04:57:51
- 3x Summits: 00:07:43:39
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.
Shout out to the Ultra Bros who made the day unforgettable: Nathan, Erik, Ben, Busta, and Prestwood!