Home > Runs & Races

Destination Race – The North Face Whistler Half-Marathon

Canada's Most Scenic Half-Marathon

Whistler Half-Marathon.
Whistler Half-Marathon.

Destination

What: The North Face Whistler Half-Marathon

Where: Whistler, B.C.
When: June 6, 2015
Races: Half-marathon, 10K, Kid’s 1K

Participants: 1,000+
Website: http://www.whistlerhalfmarathon.com/

If you haven’t run the course, you might be intimidated by the mere mention that Whistler, B.C. – one of the world’s premiere alpine ski destinations – hosts a half-marathon sponsored by The North Face. Although the course is challenging, it’s still beginner friendly. There are three major hills, but most of the course is a rolling, undulating tour of the snow-capped vistas of Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. Rather than an extreme mountain race, picture a more scenic version of a traditional city run. “It runs through five of the different neighbourhoods in Whistler,” says race director Dave Clark. “It’s sort of a mini version of New York and the five boroughs.” Of course, the neighbourhoods in Whistler also have wildlife such as bears. Expect to spot a few furry friends, or at least their scat, along the pathway next to the golf course.

The North Face Whistler Half-Marathon began in 2011. It was an instant success, selling out both years well in advance. The breathtaking surroundings and the organization are important factors in the race’s popularity. “There’s a lot of scenery to distract you from the displeasure that may be going on in your body,” says David Palermo, 2012 men’s champion. With hundreds of volunteers throughout the course, runners don’t have to worry about much, except pushing through the pain. The finish line has enough volunteers so that there’s at least a one-to-one ratio for volunteers to runners, even at the busiest times. Kids are involved at neighbourhood water stations, and it’s common to see spectators in their housecoats, watching from their front steps.

There was a problem with the course measurement in 2012, as almost every runner seemed to be recording massive personal bests at the event. It turns out the route was about 1,200m short, a result of a calibration error in the measuring wheel. It was an unexpected hiccup for an otherwise professionally run event. Clark takes the course certification seriously and he’s committed to making sure the same mistakes aren’t repeated. “We create an authentic experience that is all encompassing,” he says. “[Accurate distance] is part of that authenticity.”

It makes sense that Whistler is a popular running destination and could turn into one of the premiere half-marathons in the country. The community is active. The June weather is more pleasant compared to the sweltering heat of Central and Eastern Canada. There’s also an Olympic legacy. Whistler‘s environmental responsibility is likely a big draw too – instead of participation medals, finishers receive prints from a local artist. With over 1,000 runners in each of the past three years, Clark says he’s looking at ways to grow the cap – and he added a 10K option in 2013. It’s only a matter of time before runners start talking about Whistler with the same conviction that skiers do.

IF YOU GO

Getting there: All major airlines fly into Vancouver. Whistler is about a two-hour drive up the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway (No. 99). The highway was twinned for the 2010 Winter Olympics, so it’s much quicker and safer than it was before.
Where to stay: The Crystal Lodge (4154 Village Green) is a pet-friendly hotel with reasonable summer rates, an outdoor hot tub and spacious rooms. Located in the village, it’s close to several restaurants and less than 1K to the start line.

Check out the latest buyer's guide:

The best trainers in Canada under $150

We curated the best performance trainers under $150 to meet your 2024 running goals, while staying on budget