Big Texas Ultra

Austin Solstice Circuit Challenge

The Fastest Summer Ultramarathon in Texas

July 25 & 26, 2026 | Pace Bend Park, Lake Travis

Set a PR!

Scenic Hill Country Course

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Texas Hill Country as you run on smooth paved roads winding through majestic oak trees. With Lake Travis as your backdrop, this picturesque route combines natural beauty with the perfect running surface for speed and comfort.

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Set your sights on a personal record at the Austin Solstice Circuit Challenge. This unique event features a perfectly engineered 1.64-mile paved loop with an elevation gain of just 33ft at scenic Pace Bend Park on Lake Travis, designed for speed and performance even in July.

Race Distances

52.7 Mile Race

Loops: 32

Distance: 52.7 mi

Start: 7:00 PM 07/25

50K

Loops: 19

Distance: 31.0 mi

Start: 7:00 PM 07/25

Marathon (USATF Certification code: TX25015LAB)

Loops: 16

Distance: 26.35 mi

Start: 7:00 PM 07/25

25K

Loops: 10

Distance: 15.5 mi

Start: 7:00 PM 07/25; 7:00AM 07/26

10K

Loops: 4

Distance: 6.2 mi

Start: 7:00 PM 07/25;

7:00 AM 07/26

5K

Loops: 2

Distance: 3.1 mi

Start: 7:00 PM 07/25

7:00 AM 07/26

Carpe Diem 60

One Hour. One Sunrise.

Beat the heat.

Seize the morning.

Earn your day.

Start: 6:00 AM 07/26

7:00 AM 07/26

Why Choose This Race?

Fast, PR-Friendly USATF Certified Marathon Course (Boston Qualifier)

Unlike typical Texas summer ultras with brutal heat and technical trails, our smooth asphalt loop with minimal elevation gain creates ideal conditions for record-setting performances. This is a USATF-certified course: Certification code: TX25015LAB.

Evening Start Format

Race as the sun sets and July's magnificent Buck Moon rises over the limestone bluffs. Our strategic evening start times for longer distances mean cooler temperatures when you need it most.

Pacers Allowed

While we won't be providing official pacing groups for the Austin Solstice Circuit Challenge due to our size, we enthusiastically welcome personal pacers for both the Marathon, 50K and 52.7 Mile Solo events. Personal pacers can join Marathon and 50K participants after 8 loops and 52.7 Mile runners after 16 loops (approximately halfway points). Each pacer must pay a $15 fee that covers park entry, administrative costs, and an official pacer bib. Pacers need to sign a waiver and wear their designated "PACER" bib while on course. Runners are responsible for arranging their own pacers, but the loop format makes it particularly convenient for your support crew to join when you need them most. We find this flexibility is especially appreciated by first-time marathoners and ultra runners who benefit from personalized support during the challenging later miles as day turns to evening.

Pickup Information:

Saturday Packet Pickup:

Available from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM.

Race Day Pickup:

For those unable to attend on Saturday or who prefer to pick up on race day, same-day packet pickup will be available Sunday morning from 5:30 AM to 6:30 AM.

Carpe Diem 60

One Hour. One Sunrise. Start your day with purpose.

Carpe Diem 60 is a 60-minute sunrise endurance challenge on this out-and-back course. At 6:00 AM, you’ll have one hour to cover as much distance as possible with early morning focus. Most Distance Covered Wins

Beat the heat. Seize the morning. Earn your day.

Course Details

The distinctive figure-8 course winds through the breathtaking Hill Country landscape of Pace Bend Park, featuring limestone bluffs, majestic oak trees, and views of Lake Travis. The smooth asphalt surface throughout makes it perfect for both day and night running, with the main loop connecting to a smaller upper loop.

• Surface: 100% smooth, paved asphalt – ideal for consistent pacing

• Elevation: Minimal gain per loop – gentle, predictable terrain

• Loop Length: 1.64 miles in a figure-8 configuration

• Scenery: Limestone bluffs, oak-covered hills, and Lake Travis views

• Aid Station: Access every 1.64 miles at the start/finish hub

• Marking: Fully marked with reflective markers for nighttime visibility

"Whether you're chasing a PR, a qualifying time, or simply want to experience the joy of running fast through a Texas summer night beneath towering oaks and limestone cliffs, the Solstice Circuit Challenge offers a rare opportunity to push your limits under optimal conditions."

Amenities

Aid Station

Fully stocked station at the start/finish hub

Restrooms

Convenient toilet vault facilities

Camping

First-come, first-served sites surrounding the course

Parking

Multiple areas for easy access

Finisher Awards

Medals and custom challenge coins for all finishers

Commemorate your achievement with a premium custom-designed medal featuring Lake Travis. These coins are part of the Race Austin Series: Collector's Challenge, which allows you to exchange three same-tier coins from different Fit Foundation races for a complimentary race entry of the same tier.

Race Austin Coin Challenge Race Austin Coin Challenge Race Austin Coin Challenge

Join Us for an Unforgettable Experience

Race from sunset to stars beneath the Buck Moon on the fastest summer ultra course in the Texas Hill Country.

REGISTER NOW!

Ready to prepare? Check out our comprehensive training guide designed specifically for the Solstice Circuit Challenge.

August 8th, 2025.

This is the culminating event in the Capt'n Karl's Trail Series at one of the best privately owned adventure parks in all of Texas, the amazing Reveille Peak Ranch! This park is located 55 miles northwest of Austin in the historic town of Burnet. The amenities at RPR are first class & we will be taking advantage of this by providing our runners, spectators & volunteers with a series finale party. But first, runners will be treated to unique & spectacular geological formations. Navigating over large rock domes with amazing views, while tackling the most elevation gain of our four venues (3812 ft). This course really has it all….single track, exposure, tree-covered woods, hills & technicality. All to challenge even the most seasoned trail runner.

While every racer will get some cool swag, July 16th is the deadline to get a shirt.

Location Confirmed: Lake Pflugerville Park

The Summer Meltdown Half Marathon: Embrace the Heat, Conquer the Challenge

Welcome to the ultimate test of endurance and spirit, The Summer Meltdown Half Marathon! Set against the picturesque backdrop of Texas' stunning parks, this exhilarating race kicks off at 7am, offering a fresh start to your summer day. As the golden sun rises, casting a warm glow over the landscape, you'll embark on a journey through some of the most beautiful and serene natural settings Texas has to offer.

The race route winds through lush, shaded trails, alongside sparkling rivers, and across rolling hills, providing both a challenge and a feast for the eyes. Despite the early start, the notorious Texas heat will make its presence felt, adding an extra layer of intensity to your run. But fear not, for the course is dotted with well-stocked aid stations, ensuring you stay hydrated and energized as you push your limits.

As you navigate the course, you'll be treated to the sights and sounds of nature in full summer bloom. Majestic oak trees offer brief respites of shade, wildflowers blanket the meadows, and the cheerful songs of birds accompany your footsteps. The camaraderie of fellow runners and the support of enthusiastic volunteers create an electric atmosphere that propels you forward, mile after mile.

Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or a first-time half marathon participant, The Summer Meltdown Half Marathon promises an unforgettable experience. It's more than just a race; it's a celebration of resilience, community, and the breathtaking beauty of Texas' natural landscapes. So lace up your running shoes, embrace the heat, and get ready to conquer The Summer Meltdown Half Marathon. Let the summer adventure begin!

Get ready to strap on your sneakers and join us for the Summer Meltdown Half Marathon. The Texas heat isn't going to slow us down. Join in all the festivities you have come to expect from a Bigfoot Running Company event. Awesome medals, cool Tee's, high energy staff, 100% focus on participant experience, live awards, and lets not forget the coveted Bigfoot Trophy's. Snacks and refreshments will be available when you finish at the race rally tent. Our DJ will be playing all the hits and announcing every runner. All award winners will be announced and recognized for their accomplishments. Aid stations will be on the course to provide water and to assist should you have any concerns during your run. Come join us for the hottest Half Marathon this Summer! Our primary focus is to make your race fun, safe and exciting.

*Youth-based pricing for the 5k & Quarter Marathon 12 & Under are only $15!

*Participants will receive a $20 refund if they refer 5 others.

*Join as a group and receive special group discounts. The larger your group gets the larger your groups discount gets.

Race Distances offered:

Kids Dash - This event if for our little Yeti's and is typically about a 20 yard dash. Designed for kids 10 and under. This is not timed and includes a tee shirt, race medal, and exclusive Kids Dash recognition pin. Your little Yeti will get to experience what races are all about as we focus all the attention on them and get the crowd involved in cheering them on. Our crew will be present with our professional race camera capturing all the fun so that you can share the memory of this awesome experience with friends and family.

1 Mile - Our 1 mile race is designed for all ages and experience levels. This event is not chipped timed and includes a tee shirt and race medal.

5K - Our 5K race will take you 3.11 miles through the course. This event is chip timed and features 1st overall trophy's for male and female finishers, special recognition pins for 1st place male and female master's category as well as our standard age group awards.

1/4 Marathon - Our Quarter Marathon race will take you 6.55 miles through the course. This event is chip timed and features 1st overall Bigfoot trophy's for male and female finishers, special recognition pins for 1st place male and female master's category as well as our standard age group awards.

Half Marathon - Our Half Marathon race will take you 13.1 miles through the course. This event is chip timed and features 1st overall Bigfoot trophy's for male and female finishers, special recognition pins for 1st place male and female master's category as well as our standard age group awards.

Standard Age Group Awards for 5K, Quarter Marathon and Half Marathon

1st overall M/F - Trophy

1st overall M/F Masters age 40+ - Special recognition award lanyard pin

10 and under M/F - 1st Gold, 2nd Silver, and 3rd Bronze award pin

11-14 M/F - 1st Gold, 2nd Silver, and 3rd Bronze award pin

15-19 M/F - 1st Gold, 2nd Silver, and 3rd Bronze award pin

20-24 M/F - 1st Gold, 2nd Silver, and 3rd Bronze award pin

25-29 M/F - 1st Gold, 2nd Silver, and 3rd Bronze award pin

30-34 M/F - 1st Gold, 2nd Silver, and 3rd Bronze award pin

35-39 M/F - 1st Gold, 2nd Silver, and 3rd Bronze award pin

40-44 M/F - 1st Gold, 2nd Silver, and 3rd Bronze award pin

45-49 M/F - 1st Gold, 2nd Silver, and 3rd Bronze award pin

50-54 M/F - 1st Gold, 2nd Silver, and 3rd Bronze award pin

55-59 M/F - 1st Gold, 2nd Silver, and 3rd Bronze award pin

60-64 M/F - 1st Gold, 2nd Silver, and 3rd Bronze award pin

65-69 M/F - 1st Gold, 2nd Silver, and 3rd Bronze award pin

70+ M/F - 1st Gold, 2nd Silver, and 3rd Bronze award pin

Shirt guarantee cutoff is 10 days out from the event. After that date if shirts are still available this page will be updated and a notification of availability will be placed at the top of this listing with details concerning shirt size availability and quantity available if applicable.

Event Schedule

5:30-6:45am Packet Pickup

6:55am Kids Dash (Meet at the Start Line and we will walk participants out to the starting area)

7:00am National Anthem and Race Start!

Results and Awards are live and available at the Registration tent immediately following your finish!

Volunteer then Run includes a custom chip timed bib, super soft tee, and an awesome finisher medal! You can participate in the 5K run offered for this event. You simply show up an hour and a half before race start and help with packet pickup, about 10 minutes before race starts, you join everyone at the starting line for pre-race warmup and start with the starting gun. Then after you run the race and recover you help us hand out awards. (This option does not require you to sign up under the volunteer tab above. This option does not include the Full Race Volunteer benefits' listed below.) THIS OPTION IS LIMITED TO THE FIRST 5 SIGN UPS AND IS FOR THE 5K DISTANCE.

Full Race Volunteer with Us! (you will not be running in this race)

Sign up under the "VOLUNTEER" tab on the top menu. Volunteers earn an Bigfoot race shirt, VIP race access and your choice of a FREE race entry to a future event to use for yourself or to gift to someone else or a $20 pre-paid digital gift card!

Water Station: You will be placed at the water station. Your duties are to simply make sure there are water cups filled and ready for participants. You will be in a prime position to cheer on runners so feel free to bring a radio, pom poms, signs, noise makers etc. POSITION RATING: Chill position that puts you at a vantage point to interact with participants. Feel free to bring a chair if you would like.

Course Monitors: You will be placed along the course route at places that require extra attention for participant safety. You will be in a prime position to cheer on runners so feel free to bring a radio, pom poms, signs, noise makers etc. Example: crosswalks POSITION RATING: Fun, exciting position that puts you in the middle of all the action

Finish Line Helper: Assist the Race Director with general finish line tasks. POSITION RATING: Easy and fun job.

Turtle / Sweeper: You get to hang back with the last runner. Your job is to encourage the last runner and let water station and course monitors know when the final runner has past so they can begin tear down. POSITION RATING: slightly physically challenging. You get to run the longest distance for free. Good day of exercise.

Packet Pickup / Results: You will be very near the start and finish line. You will get the opportunity to interact with participants and share in their joy when they are presented their awards. POSITION RATING: A bit hectic for about 45 min before the race. the rest of your day is pretty chill and very fun. Be part of creating the excitement!

Floater: Provide general race help. Examples: hand out medals, help with snacks, etc. POSITION RATING: Super easy and fun job that puts you right in the action of the race.

Lead Bike: Lead the first runner and complete the course on a bike or scooter. POSITION RATING: You get to enjoy the course with the participants. Your job is to make sure the first people go the correct direction on the longest distance event by following you. POSITION RATING: Fun and good exercise. You are done with your volunteering requirements shortly after the first long distance runner is finished.

Bigfoot Mascot: Wear our provided Bigfoot costume and help cheer on participant, providing high-fives and great photo opportunities'. POSITION RATING: The coolest and by far most fun volunteer opportunity. You get to be the center of attention at the finish line.

Volunteers arrive at the event 1.5 hours before start time and check in at the registration tent.

*Bigfoot races proceed rain, shine, hot or cold.

Packet pickup is always offered for 1.5 hours before the event start time. If an additional packet pickup is scheduled it will be communicated via email to all registered participants a a minimum of 1 week before the race.

Bigfoot Running Company races are typically held at parks and green belts. We make every attempt to stay on paved trails but mixed course surfaces should be expected. You may run on pavement, crushed granite and when unavoidable a dirt paths.

Saturday-Monday, September 5th-7th, 2026.

Located in the beautiful Texas Hill Country, Camp Buckner is a premier Christian camp and event destination—where you can enjoy all the fun of camp while supporting vulnerable children, families, and seniors. Perspective is collaborating with Camp Buckner to create a weekend full of fun activities for kids of all ages and 3 days of trail running fun on trails built specifically for this 3 day event.

While every racer will get some cool swag, August 21st is the deadline to get a shirt.

Click Here for Perspective Pacing Policies (you really do want to know this stuff!)

September 12, 2026.

Get your friends and family, and join in on this close to Austin and San Antonio lake party and trail run! The finish line arch will be as close to the edge of Lake Travis as we can get it (Austin area’s famed lake boasting over 9 miles of shoreline)! So when you finish you can cruise straight into the water to cool off and start your floating post-race party! This means, as the lake rises and falls each year, the distance will possibly slightly change, so we'll add "ish" to each distance...and that's perfect when everything and everyone stays mellow.

We’re incredibly thankful for the support of this race by the Travis County Parks Foundation!

While every racer will get some cool swag, August 18 is the deadline to get a shirt.

During registration, we are collecting $10 for one day of access to the park. If runners are staying for more than one day, they will have to pay additional amounts upon entering the park.

Click Here for Tejas Trails Policies (you really do want to know this stuff)