The Bad Thing

The Bad Thing 2026 - 25K and 50K Maitland Trail Race

The Bad Thing 2026 is a point-to-point trail race along the Maitland Trail in Huron County, Ontario, finishing at the Auburn Riverside Retreat in Auburn. The 50K option starts in Goderich and finishes in Auburn. The 25K option begins roughly at the halfway point of the 50K course.

The route consists mainly of single-track, highly technical trail with short sections of road and groomed trail. The terrain can be muddy and demanding; the race is not intended for inexperienced trail runners. Because the race is point-to-point, bus transport from the Auburn Riverside Retreat to the start locations is mandatory; participants must check in at Auburn and travel by bus, where the race brief and rules are provided. Minimum participant age is 18 years.

All participants receive food and post-race provisions including barbecue chicken, pulled pork, a vegan option, a Culbert's Creampuff (about 1500 calories), a race shirt, beer or cider with non-alcoholic options, fresh pressed juice, a swag bag and additional snacks and beverages. Registration opened on May 1, 2026.

Refund policy: all sales are final. Race Huron does not issue refunds, transfers or deferrals under any circumstances. If the event is cancelled for weather and not rescheduled that year, fees minus online registration costs will be applied to the following year's race. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.