The Rugged Raccoon Night Race

The Rugged Raccoon Night Race 2026

The event takes place at Wildwood Conservation Area in St Marys, Ontario. It is sanctioned by Athletics Ontario and offers both day and night trail running options. The route runs around the lake and includes long winding flat sections, lake views, rocky and rooty terrain, likely muddy sections, and some climbs while not being described as a hilly course.

Three distance options are available:

• 10 km
• 25 km
• 50 km

The 50 km is two loops of the 25 km course and is noted to measure slightly under 50 km. The 10 km is an out-and-back on the route introduced in 2023. Early start options and course cutoffs are available for participants who require more time; early starters may be official finishers but could be ineligible for podium prizes.

There are four full aid stations located at about 4.5 km, 10 km, 15 km and 20 km. Aid stations provide water, an electrolyte drink, PB & J and sweet and salty snacks. The event is cup-less so runners must carry a collapsible cup or bottle to refill.

All night runners must carry a headlamp or flashlight with a minimum of 100 lumens; 200 lumens or more is recommended and headlamps are strongly encouraged. Race inclusions include a shirt (unisexe or women's cut), a small race bib, additional race items, chip timing, and a medal. La Sportiva will bring demo shoes and give away two pairs at each event. Local nutrition company THN Labs will supply gels in race kits and at aid stations. The event supports Ontario Nature and its Nature Guardians youth program. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.