OVERVIEW

The Grizzly Ultra is a high‑energy, crowd‑favorite endurance event held at the iconic Canmore Nordic Centre — a world‑class trail network surrounded by towering peaks, dense forest, and crisp mountain air. Known for its fast, flowing singletrack and punchy climbs, the race blends runnable terrain with technical features that keep runners engaged from the first kilometer to the last. With its electric atmosphere, smooth organization, and stunning autumn backdrop, the Grizzly Ultra has become a staple of the Alberta trail‑running calendar, with the option to run either Saturday or Sunday!

Whether you’re tackling the course solo or sharing the adventure with a relay team, the Grizzly Ultra delivers a fun, challenging, and unforgettable mountain experience.

RACE DISTANCES OVERVIEW

The Grizzly Ultra typically offers multiple ways to take on the course:

• Solo 50 km: A fast, runnable ultra with rolling elevation and classic Nordic Centre singletrack.
• Two‑Person Relay: Split the distance and share the challenge with a partner.
• Five‑Person Relay: A team‑focused option perfect for groups, clubs, and runners new to longer distances.

Each option highlights the flowy, forested, and deceptively challenging terrain that defines the Grizzly Ultra.

THE RACE

The Grizzly Ultra celebrates the rhythm and beauty of mountain trail running. The course winds through dense forest, open meadows, rolling hills, and technical singletrack, creating a dynamic mix of speed and challenge. With crisp fall weather, golden larch and aspen colours, and the dramatic backdrop of the Bow Valley, the race offers an immersive mountain experience without venturing deep into backcountry terrain.

Runners experience:

• A well‑organized, volunteer‑powered event with strong community spirit
• A mix of singletrack, doubletrack, rolling climbs, and fast descents
• Aid stations offering hydration, nutrition, and enthusiastic support
• A lively, inclusive atmosphere that embraces runners of all backgrounds

Whether you’re chasing a personal best or simply soaking in the mountain scenery, the Grizzly Ultra delivers a memorable and motivating challenge.

WHY RUN THE GRIZZLY ULTRA

The Grizzly Ultra is more than a race — it’s a celebration of community, mountain culture, and the joy of fall trail running. Participants return because of:

• A course that blends speed with technical trail fun
• A supportive, festival‑like atmosphere shaped by passionate volunteers
• Clear markings, smooth logistics, and a polished race‑day experience
• A chance to run in one of Canada’s most iconic trail systems
• The powerful sense of accomplishment that comes from finishing a classic Canmore ultra

With its accessible location and vibrant energy, the Grizzly Ultra is ideal for both new and experienced trail runners.

EVENT AMENITIES

The Grizzly Ultra focuses on runner comfort, safety, and smooth race‑day flow. Participants benefit from:

• Pre‑race check‑in and briefing
• Well‑spaced aid stations with hydration, nutrition, and encouragement
• Course marshals at key intersections and technical sections
• Relay transition zones for team events
• Post‑race food, recovery space, and celebration area

Every detail is crafted to help runners stay confident, fueled, and ready for the next climb.

COMMUNITY & GATHERING SPACES

The Grizzly Ultra brings together runners, families, and volunteers in a warm, supportive environment. Throughout the weekend, people gather at:

• Race HQ, the central hub for check‑in, awards, and community connection
• Relay transition areas, where teams cheer, swap stories, and support their runners
• Finish‑line festivities, where accomplishments are celebrated and memories are made

These spaces create the camaraderie that makes the Grizzly Ultra feel like a gathering of Alberta’s trail‑running community.

FOOD & REFUELING OPTIONS

While the race provides strong aid station support, runners and crews will find plenty of food options in Canmore.

Popular choices include:

• Local cafés and bakeries for pre‑race fueling
• Mountain‑town pubs and restaurants for hearty meals
• Coffee shops for early‑morning caffeine and grab‑and‑go snacks
• Post‑race dining spots perfect for celebrating your finish

Canmore’s vibrant food scene — paired with its alpine charm — makes race weekend both smooth and unforgettable.