Conquer the Wilderness: Trail Races near victoria, bC in 2024
Victoria and Vancouver Island offer a wonderful selection of beautiful landscapes and challenging terrains that are perfect for trail running. As we gear up for 2024, the island has an exciting lineup of trail races that cater to all levels of trail runners. Whether you're a beginner, seasoned, or listened to too much David Goggins, Vancouver Island has something for everyone.
Let's check out this year’s races!
The Finlayson Arm Trail race
Rating: Advanced
This iconic trail race is snuggled right into the challenging landscapes of Gowlland Todd Park, near Victoria, and is a testament to the raw beauty and rugged terrain that defines this section of the southern island.
Best known for “The Double”, where racers complete the 50-mile race on Saturday and the 28km race the following day, The Finlayson Arm is no “walk in the park”.
The 50-mile race takes place on highly technical mountainous trails while featuring a river crossing, 4000m of elevation, and a 5am start. If that doesn’t say enough, this event is best suited to the highly-prepared (or *highly* confident) racer.
And don’t let the 50km and 28km lull you in… while shorter, they are certainly their own level of daunting.
The Finlayson Arm Trail Races - September 7th-8th, 2024
50miles/3968m of elevation
50km/2897m of elevation
28km/1511m of elevation
The Double: 50 miles on Saturday, 28km on Sunday
Registration for the Finlayson Arm Races open on February 14th, 2024.
Check out their website for more information.
The Island Trail Series
Rating: Novice to Intermediate
The Island Trail Series kicks off the trail racing season with a bang in early April. The trails series works hard to deliver six amazing events throughout the year, each offering its own distinct distance and elevation profile. The number of unique events allows runners to choose from 10k to 26k with anywhere from 280m to 915m of elevation, offering something for almost any trail runner.
These races are generally beginner-friendly and roll through lush forests, a few challenging ascents, and scenic coastal trails, providing a true exploration of Vancouver Island's diverse terrain.
Royal Roads - April 13th, 2024
11km/300m of elevation
Cobble Hill - May 11th, 2024
20km/915m of elevation
Port Alberni - June 1st, 2024
17km/430m of elevation
Ladysmith - July 20th, 2024
10km/280m of elevation
20km/680m of elevation
Mt. Washington - August 10th, 2024
14km/820m of elevation
Qualicum Bay - October 19th, 2024
26km/350m of elevation
Information on all of the Island Trail Series events, including registration dates, can be found here.
Elk/Beaver Lake Ultras
Rating: Intermediate to Advanced
This annual ultra-distance trail race, organized by the Prairie Inn Harriers Running Club, invites runners to test their speed endurance chops while “trotting” around the lake with runners, pedestrians, and horses alike on the peaceful trails of Elk and Beaver Lake Regional Park.
Featuring roughly 30m of elevation per 10km lap, this course is all about speed - this year especially. In 2024 the event will feature the 100km ACU National Road Championships and the 50km ACU National Road Championships, in addition to the 50 mile race and 40km walk.
Elk/Beaver Lake Ultras - May 11th, 2024
7.5km/154m of elevation
16km/309m of elevation
25km/489m of elevation
Registration for the Elk/Beaver Lake Ultras open on April 1st, 2024.
Check out their website for more information.
The Cumberland Trifecta
Rating: Novice to Advanced
Nestled in the heart of the Comox Valley on Vancouver Island, the Cumberland Trifecta races stand as a beacon for trail running enthusiasts seeking a triple dose of challenge and community.
Comprising three distinct races, each with its own flavour and difficulty level, the Trifecta is more than a series of trail races—it's an experience that celebrates the thrill of running and the spirit of community. All 3 races raise money for a cause, including the Cumberland Community Forest Society, United Riders of Cumberland and Comox Valley Ground Search & Rescue.
The Cumby Races - May 4th, 2024
7.5km/154m of elevation
16km/309m of elevation
25km/489m of elevation
Devil’s Ladder Ultra Races - July 13th, 2024
15km/365m of elevation
30k/938m of elevation
50k/1800m of elevation
Perseverance Trail Run Races - October TBD, 2024
3km/84m of elevation
12km/455m of elevation
Information on each of the races, including registration dates, can be found here: The Cumby, Devil’s Ladder Ultra, Perseverance Trail Run.
Edge to Edge
On the western edge of Vancouver Island the Edge to Edge Race in Ucluelet invites runners to embark on a journey that stretches from “edge to edge”, navigating the world-renowned landscapes of Ucluelet. During the race, runners are treated to panoramic ocean views, dense rainforests, and the unique feel of a small coastal community.
Whether you're a local looking to explore your backyard or a visitor seeking a trail-running challenge that forces you to reflect on your sanity, these races offer an opportunity to connect with nature, push your limits, and experience what so many of us love about Vancouver Island.
Lace up your trail shoes, grab some baby powder, and get ready to crush those trails in 2024!
Looking for something else?
Injured? We can help.
I only moonlight in writing blogs!
I shine as a physiotherapist with a speciality in running injuries.
If a running injury is holding you back, reach out and we can get you back on track!
Join our run group
9am Saturdays at Saanich Municipal Hall
Everyone is welcome regardless of experience!
Follow us to stay updated on the running group and clinic events!