Elk Valley Ultra
Event overview
The Elk Valley Ultra takes place in Fernie, BC on July 25, 2026. The main race is a 50 km mountain trail ultra with 3,000 m of ascent. The event uses James White Park as the 50 km start and finish. A 15 km race, the Headwall Hustle, is offered the following day at Fernie Alpine Resort with 840 m of ascent and can be added as a weekend combo.
Course description
The 50 km route is described in three legs: up and over Mt. Fernie, onto Rocky Road, down to Island Lake Lodge, through Old Growth Forest, along the old Rail Trail, up Gorby and Provincial Park trails, and across the front of Mt. Fernie before a steep descent to the finish. The 15 km route climbs through Cedar Bowl to the base of the Headwall, traverses into Timber Bowl, then descends to the finish.
Entries, categories and logistics
The 50 km field is limited to 200 racers. Categories include Male, Female and Non-Binary, with age groups listed as Open, 40-59 and 60+. Early bird and regular pricing apply for adult and youth entries; a combo entry price is available for the 50 km plus 15 km. Registration opens January 5, 2026. Racer names on waivers must match registration accounts. Shirt sizes are not exchangeable after the May 31 ordering date. Entries may be sold to another participant if unable to race.
Included services
Entries include a race shirt (subject to sizing and ordering dates), finish line BBQ and beer, finisher medals, top-3 trophies by category, free race photography downloads, fully stocked aid stations, and a donation to the Fernie Trails Alliance. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
Distances
- 50 km - Start/Finish at James White Park; 3,000 m ascent.
- 15 km - Start/Finish at Fernie Alpine Resort; 840 m ascent.