The Bad Thing

The Bad Thing 2026

The Bad Thing 2026 is a point-to-point trail race held on October 24, 2026, along the Maitland Trail in Huron County, Ontario. The race finishes at Auburn Riverside Retreat.

Distances offered:

• 50K starts in Goderich and finishes at Auburn Riverside Retreat.
• 25K starts roughly at the halfway point of the 50K course.

The course is mainly single track and highly technical, with some road and groomed trail sections. The terrain can be muddy and demanding; the race is not intended for inexperienced trail runners.

Because the course is point to point, runners are transported by bus from Auburn to the starting location. Check-in must be completed at Auburn before boarding; the bus ride is mandatory and includes the race briefing and rules.

Minimum age to participate is 18. Registration opened May 1, 2026 and the event is currently full. The refund policy states that all sales are final; no refunds, transfers, or deferrals are issued. If the event is cancelled and not rescheduled for the year, fees minus online registration fees will be applied to the next year's race.

All participants receive food and event items, including barbeque chicken, pulled pork, a vegan option, a Culbert's creampuff, a shirt, beer or cider (non-alcoholic options available), fresh pressed juice, and various swag bag items. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.