The Monster Marmot
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Monster Marmot Trail Run
Monster Marmot is a community trail race held at Mount Washington Alpine Resort on Vancouver Island. The event is scheduled for September 20, 2026, and 100% of net proceeds from registrations support the Marmot Recovery Foundation.
Distances offered:
- 5 km Steep opening climb then descent through Linton's Loop to Alpine Lodge.
- 10 km West Summit Ridge, exposed ridgeline, forested singletrack, 500+ m elevation gain.
Both distances begin with a sustained climb on Giv'r Trail. The 5 km route descends via Linton's Loop back to the Alpine Lodge. The 10 km continues to West Summit Ridge, crosses exposed ridgeline, drops into forested singletrack, and returns on the Finger Trail. Course terrain includes rocky and rooted sections, technical descents, exposed alpine areas, and sections where hiking is expected.
Event details note that the race will not use chip timing; a finish line clock and manual finish order system will determine podium placements. Marshals and volunteers will staff key intersections. Aid and water on course may be limited, so participants should carry sufficient supplies. Proposed cutoffs are 3 hours for the 5 km and 4 hours for the 10 km. Routes may be adjusted for weather, trail conditions, wildlife activity, or mountain operations.
Mount Washington hosts the Tony Barrett Marmot Recovery Centre, which supports captive breeding and release programs. Conservation efforts have helped the Vancouver Island marmot population grow from fewer than 30 in 2003 to 427 in the wild today. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
