Mt. Soledad Hill Climb

A physical challenge that represents the weight carried by those who served — and those we’ve lost. 

The Mt. Soledad Hill Climb presented by Kaiser Permanente is a Memorial Day weekend experience rooted in honor, effort, and remembrance. This 1.8 mile ascent, held on Saturday, May 23rd, invites participants to climb Mt. Soledad—home to the Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial—in honor of those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Participants can choose to walk, hike, or take on the added challenge of a ruck by carrying a weighted backpack, symbolizing the physical and emotional weight carried by service members.

For those participating in the Ruck Challenge, participants are encouraged to bring their own rucksack or backpack. Weight will be provided on-site, along with scales to ensure proper load. A limited number of extra rucksacks will be available—please email us in advance if you require one.

Whether pushing your limits or simply showing up in support, this is an opportunity to be part of something meaningful. 

Participant Perks 

• Climb, walk, or take on the Ruck Challenge (40lb Men / 30lb Women)  
• Finish at the historic Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial
• Official Event T-Shirt
• Access to post-climb vendor village at the summit  
• Start the Memorial Day weekend grounded in gratitude, reflection, and intention
• Additional Perks for Ruck Challenge:
  • Weighted challenge experience with on-site load support
  • Commemorative finisher coin
  • Eligibility for Ruck Challenge division awards 

Start Times & Waves

Waves begin at 7:30 AM. Participants may select a preferred start time during registration; however, preferences are not guaranteed and will be assigned based on capacity.

Final start times will be confirmed via email prior to race day.

Supporting Our Beneficiary

Proceeds from additional donations directly support the Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial, a place dedicated to preserving the stories and honoring the service of our nation’s veterans.

The Memorial’s mission is to honor the individual legacies of every American veteran and create a sacred space that preserves their stories as a Beacon of Freedom. It exists to ensure future generations understand and appreciate the character of service.

Entry fees help cover the costs of producing the event. One hundred percent of all additional donations go directly to the memorial to support its preservation, expansion, and ongoing efforts to honor those who served.

Through your support, you are helping protect and preserve the American story. These sacrifices, legacies, and acts of courage will continue to be remembered for generations to come.

Join fellow runners on May 23, 2026 for the Mt. Soledad Hill Climb. It's a fantastic 2.9K featuring a flat and fast course in La Jolla.