Brand new Canadian trail races

Not so long ago, trail runners could register for any trail race they desired. There were no lotteries, waitlists, or waking up at stupid o’clock to register in time. Luckily, while the growth of our sport means busy registrations, it also means the birth of new and exciting trail running events for people to experience beautiful trails. If you’re planning summer adventures, take a look at these brand new trail races across Canada.

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Liminality Endurance Races

Newfoundland’s longest organized trail race offers something for everyone. Liminality comes from the Latin word limens, which means “threshold.” Participants will have the opportunity to test their endurance running timed laps of counter clockwise and clockwise loops on Canada’s east coast. Loops alternate directions every two hours. Runners are not allowed to begin the next loop until two hours have elapsed on the clock. If you sign up for the one mile event, it’s free.

When: June 1st (International Trails Day)
Where: Clarenville, Nfld.
Distance: 50-mile, 50-mile six person relay, 50K, 16.6-mile, 8.3-mile, 4.4-mile, one mile race distance options
How: sign up here

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Fraser Valley Trail Races

What happens when talented trail runners pour their heart and soul into showcasing some of the best trails in B.C.? The result is Fraser Valley Trail Races. Jenny Quilty and Katrina Abram are excited to share their knowledge and love for the trails with two stunning and challenging trail races this summer. Fraser Valley Trail Races will be a weekend well spent, so don’t miss out on the party.

When: June 8 (Bear Mountain) & July 27 (Manning Park)
Where: Fraser Valley, B.C.
Distance: 8K, 12K, 21K (Bear Mountain) & 10K, 21K (Manning Park)
How: sign up here

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The Mad Trapper Backyard Ultra

Trail and ultrarunners in Quebec are following in Laz’s footsteps this summer. Inspired by Lazarus Lake’s Big’s Backyard Ultra, runners will run 4.16667 mile (6.71K) loops with a time limit of one hour. The original Backyard Ultra is a positive community event, uniting endurance runners and their families together. The Mad Trapper seems no different. Even if you’re not running, join as a volunteer, crew, or just come for the BBQ.

When: June 22, 2019
Where: The Ark, Denholm, Que.
Distance: TBD
How: sign up here

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Tackle the Toad

If you’re looking for a rugged wilderness experience this summer, then look to Nelson, B.C. Tackle the Toad trail race is offering a brand new 25K and 50K course that will be a challenge for the most experienced endurance trail runner. The race will take you on some of the most beautiful and remote areas in the West Kootenays. The course utilizes new sections of The Great Trail taking runners over multiple mountains. Runners will experience ancient cedar hemlock forests and run to rocky spruce alpine with views over Kootenay Lake. Bring your strength, positivity, and bear spray to the start line in Nelson. Proceeds of the event go toward the Nelson Cycling Club, who create and maintain the trails.

When: September 8th
Where: Nelson, B.C.
Distance: 25K with 1,300 metres (half of Toad Mountain) and 50K with 2,500 metres (over top of Toad Mountain and different trails than the 25K)
How: sign up here

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