I'm a bit unclear about the original question as there's a reference both to making Premier, as well as whether it's too late to get to 50K.

First, as far as making Premier, IMHO it's worthwhile. It only takes 21K this year with the reduced qualification level, so if you're at or over 19K, you could make 21K pretty easily. I'm not that familiar with West Coast fares, but I would guess you could find a quick cheap non-shuttle flight with 2 segments each way. With the 500 mile minimum, that would get you to 21K. Even if it is difficult to upgrade, I think it would be worthwhile: (1) 25% bonus on flights since May (summer from Hell bonus); (2) 25% bonus on all flights next year; (3) Economy plus seating; (4) early boarding; and all the other misc Premier stuff.

From there, you could try to get to Premier Exec, which is only 42K this year. That would obviously take some effort, although the better upgrade opportunities and extra bonus miles (100% versus 25%) are quite nice. I think it depends on whether you think you'd fly enough next year to take advantage of it.

Finally, if you're not Premier Exec to start with, getting to 50K would get you extra bonus miles for the summer from Hell.