Mantario Marathon

Mantario Marathon

The Mantario Marathon is a two-day, self-supported trail event on the Mantario Trail in Whiteshell, Manitoba. The route totals 64 km, run as two stages of about 32 km with an overnight camp at Moosehead Lake. The event is held on the last full weekend of September and has been run since 1980.

This is a Fat Ass event with no fee, no aid, no official organization, and no event staff. Participants must be fully self-sufficient and carry all gear required for two days in the wilderness, including food, water, shelter, clothing, navigation, a means to purify water, repair and first aid supplies. Rules require assisting other participants in need, packing out all waste, and prohibiting the burning of garbage.

The route is unmarked; participants must follow the Mantario Trail using a map, compass and GPS track. The trail runs through boreal forest and the Canadian Shield, includes numerous water crossings, and is often wet and slippery. The course involves more than 1500 metres of cumulative elevation gain and loss and can be hard to follow. Prior experience on long trails, route finding skills, and training while carrying an overnight pack are recommended. For injuries or emergencies, use local emergency services and carry a satellite communicator. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.