‘We're rolling!' Ultrarunner becomes fastest-ever to complete 220-mile John Muir Trail

Seattle ultramarathoner Joe "Stringbean" McConaughy became the quickest individual to finish the John Muir Trail stretch in September 2026. The 220-mile route, situated in California's Sierra Nevada mountains, is a challenge for endurance athletes, with traditional hikers taking 2-3 weeks to complete. McConaughy, a 33-year-old running coach, crossed the finish line at Yosemite Valley's Happy Isles, having accomplished the feat in 2 days, 16 hours, and 17 seconds. This time breaks the previous record set by French runner François Haene in 2017.

McConaughy set his sights on this record after a decade of chasing similar trails, including the Pacific Crest Trail and the Appalachian Trail. In August 2022, he completed the John Muir Trail in 3 days and 1 hour, but was beaten by another ultrarunner by 14 minutes. McConaughy didn't let this setback discourage him; instead, it motivated him to attempt the record again.

To prepare for his quest, McConaughy had a team of ultrarunners supporting him on his journey. Caroline Himbert, who had previously set a speed record on the John Muir Trail, was among them. As McConaughy tackled the grueling 200-mile hike from Mount Whitney's summit to Yosemite Valley, Himbert conveyed her admiration for his progress through text messages.

In an interview with the Chronicle post his accomplishment, McConaughy expressed his elation, stating the experience was "one of those days where everything went well." He emphasized the joy and hard work that come with chasing these mountain records, highlighting the richness of the journey beyond just the time.