Joe McConaughy Sets New John Muir Trail FKT — image accompanying Canadian Running's report. Image accompanying Canadian Running’s report; reduced and presented for news commentary with the attributed report. View the complete source report.
Joe McConaughy, known as 'Stringbean,' set a new Fastest Known Time on the John Muir Trail. He completed the 352-kilometre route in two days and 16 hours. This was his third attempt, surpassing the 2017 record by three hours.
The trail includes over 1,400 metres of elevation gain and summits Mt. Whitney. His record is supported, meaning he received help at checkpoints. He averaged 133 kilometres a day for the new mark. Read more trail coverage.
McConaughy has set multiple FKTs, including the Appalachian Trail and Arizona Trail. His latest achievement brings his total to four FKTs. Despite fewer headlines, he remains active in ultrarunning. Related: Joe 'Stringbean' McConaughy Sets New John Muir Trail FKT.
This original Runner World brief is based on reporting from Canadian Running. Visit the source for its complete reporting, context and any later corrections.
Reader questions
Questions about this report
What should runners know about Joe McConaughy Sets New John Muir Trail FKT?
Seattle-based runner beats previous record by three hours. Joe McConaughy, known as 'Stringbean,' set a new Fastest Known Time on the John Muir Trail. He completed the 352-kilometre route in two days and 16 hours. This was his third attempt, surpassing the 2017 record by three hours.
When did Runner World publish this trail brief?
Runner World published this brief on September 24, 2026. The underlying Canadian Running report was dated September 24, 2026.
Where can readers find the complete original report?
This summary is based on reporting from Canadian Running. The attributed source link in the article leads to the publisher’s complete report.
THE WEEKLY BRIEFING
Start the week a step ahead.
A concise edit of the running stories worth knowing, sent every Monday.
