Sticks N' Stones Trail Race

Sticks n' Stones Trail Race 2026

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 supports Oceana Canada; it is held in memory of a relative of the race director.

The course is a 5.3 km loop around the lake. The trail surface is mainly dirt, non-technical, and rolling with generally runnable sections. Relay exchange zones are located at the start/finish area.

Distances offered:

• 5 km - one loop, actual distance 5.3 km
• 10 km - two loops, actual distance 10.6 km
• 25 km - five loops, actual distance 26.5 km
• 50 km SOLO - ten loops, actual distance 53 km
• 50 km RELAY - ten loops, team up to five runners

There are two aid stations per loop: one near the midpoint of the loop and one at the start/finish. Aid stations are cup-less so runners must bring a collapsible cup or bottle. Stations provide water, electrolyte drinks, soda, fruit, and sweet and salty snacks. Race kits include gels from a local nutrition company made with maple syrup, tahini, sea salt, and rowanberry extract. An equipment partner will offer shoe demos and a prize giveaway.

Participant registration includes parking; spectators pay park entry. Race kit pick-up is at the Beach Pavilion on race day. Finishers receive medals; top three solo finishers receive awards and first place relay teams are awarded by category. Professional timing is provided and photographers will be on site. A cutoff of eight hours applies to the 50 km solo event and an early start option is offered. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.