The Howling Ghost Trail Race
The Howling Ghost Trail Race
The event takes place on September 26, 2026 at Springwater Conservation Area, 47719 Conservation Line, Aylmer, ON. It offers several trail race options through the park's Carolinian forest.
Distances offered:
- New Era Grafix 8k, one loop of the 8k course.
- Always Moving 16k, two loops of the 8k course.
- BackRoads Brews + Shoes 24k, three loops of the 8k course.
- Structural Panels Inc. Night Howl 8k, night race, headlamps mandatory.
- Day/Night combinations pairing a day race with the Night Howl.
Races consist of repeated 8k loops; participants run 1, 2, or 3 loops depending on their event. Trails are mostly wide and groomed. An aid station is located near the start/finish/interloop area and on-course hydration is provided. Aid is available every 8 km. The event is cupless; runners must bring their own cup or bottle. Public washrooms are available at the start/finish area.
Timing is provided electronically by Chiptime Results and the timing chip is attached to the bib. Day race participants receive a combed cotton long sleeve tee; night race participants receive a Howling Ghost toque. All finishers receive a custom finisher medal with different colours for day and night. Race photos are available for free download. Awards are given to top finishers in each gender category when at least three runners are entered in that category. A portion of event proceeds is donated to the Children's Health Foundation. Camping is available at Springwater. The refund policy does not allow monetary refunds but offers race credits depending on withdrawal date. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.