Sticks N' Stones Trail Race

Event details

Sticks n' Stones Trail Race takes place on October 10, 2026 at Christie Lake Conservation Area in Hamilton, ON, Canada. The event is sanctioned by Athletics Ontario and partners with La Sportiva, who will have a demo shoe fleet and will give away two pairs of shoes. The race supports Oceana Canada and is held in memory of a family member. Parking for registered entrants is included in the registration fee; spectators must pay park admission. Race kit pick-up is held on-site at the Beach Pavilion on race day. Apparel and finisher items: 5k, 10k, 25k and 50k relay entrants receive a toque; 50k solo finishers receive a hoodie. Hoodies are available for purchase for other categories for $35.

Course and race format

All distances use a single loop around the lake that measures about 5.3 km per loop on primarily dirt, non-technical trail that is described as rolling and runnable. Distances offered:

• 5.3 km - one loop
• 10.6 km - two loops
• 26.5 km - five loops
• 53 km (solo) - ten loops
• 53 km (relay) - ten loops, team up to five members

There are two aid stations each loop - one at the start/finish area and another near the loop midpoint. Aid stations are cup-less; runners must bring a collapsible cup or bottle. Aid stations provide water, electrolyte drinks, pop, fruit, and sweet and salty snacks. The 50k solo event has an 8-hour cutoff. Pacers are generally not permitted; participants over 65 may have a pacer with prior coordination. Finishers receive medals; top three solo finishers and winning relay teams receive awards. Professional timing and race photography are provided. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.