Sulphur Springs Trail Race 2026

The Sulphur Springs Trail Race stands as Canada's longest-running ultra trail race, a prestigious event that has been challenging runners since 1992. Set in the stunning Dundas Valley Conservation Area in Hamilton, Ontario, this Athletics Ontario sanctioned event represents the pinnacle of Canadian trail running excellence.

As Ontario's FIRST and ONLY Western States Endurance Run (WSER) Qualifier, the Sulphur Springs Trail Race holds a special place in the ultra-running community. Finishers of the 100-mile distance who complete the course within 30 hours earn entry into the coveted WSER ballot lottery, making this race a gateway to one of the world's most prestigious ultra-marathons.

Organized by Burlington Runners Club in partnership with Straw Dog Racing, the event offers an impressive range of distances from 10K to 100 miles, accommodating everyone from trail running newcomers to seasoned ultra-marathon veterans. The race also features innovative team relay options, allowing groups to share the challenge and celebration.

The rolling 20K loop course weaves through the beautiful Dundas Valley, offering participants a mixture of groomed trails and moderately challenging single track with significant elevation changes. Each loop provides over 500 meters of elevation gain, creating a cumulative challenge that tests endurance, strategy, and mental fortitude.

This event sells out annually, testament to its reputation for excellent organization, challenging courses, and the unique opportunity it provides for WSER qualification.

Course Overview:

• Format: Rolling 20K loop system through Dundas Valley Conservation Area
• Base Location: Morgan Firestone Arena, Ancaster (Hamilton), Ontario
• Terrain: Mixture of groomed trail to moderately challenging single track
• Elevation Profile: Over 500m elevation gain per 20K loop
• Technical Difficulty: Rolling easy hills with steep climbs and descents

Loop Structure:

• 10K Loop: Single shorter loop option
• 20K Loop: Full loop with complete elevation profile
• Distance Building: Longer distances built from multiple 20K loops (e.g., 100K = 5x20K)
• Navigation Aid: GPX files available for both 10K and 20K courses
• Video Overview: Course preview by Anthony Barton available

Aid Station Support:

• Station Count: 4 strategically positioned aid stations
• Crew Access: Dedicated crew tent area for longer distances
• Refuel Opportunities: Multiple chances to regroup and recharge
• Safety Protocol: Professional medical support throughout event

Course Features:

• Conservation Setting: Pristine Dundas Valley natural environment
• Trail Variety: From groomed pathways to technical single track
• Seasonal Conditions: Late May timing provides optimal trail conditions
• Spectator Access: Multiple viewing opportunities around loop system

Technical Specifications:

• Total Climbing: Significant cumulative elevation for ultra distances
• Surface Types: Natural trail surfaces with varied technical challenges
• Weather Considerations: Spring conditions with potential for variable weather
• Emergency Access: Multiple access points for safety and emergency response

• Historic Significance: Canada's longest-running ultra trail race, operating since 1992
• WSER Qualifier Status: Ontario's FIRST and ONLY Western States Endurance Run qualifier
• Comprehensive Distance Options: 10K, 20K, 50K, 50 Miles, 100K, and 100 Miles
• Team Relay Events: 50 Mile Night Relay and 100 Mile Team Relay options
• Scenic Dundas Valley Setting: Beautiful trails through Hamilton's conservation area
• Challenging Elevation: Over 500m elevation gain per 20K loop
• Professional Organization: Burlington Runners Club and Straw Dog Racing partnership
• Athletics Ontario Sanctioned: Official provincial athletics body recognition
• Sells Out Annually: High demand event requiring early registration
• WSER Lottery Access: 100-mile finishers gain entry to Western States ballot
• Multiple Aid Stations: 4 well-positioned aid stations for safety and support
• Technical Course Variety: Mix of groomed trails and challenging single track
• Weekend Event Format: Two-day event accommodating various distances
• Course Technology: GPX files available for training and navigation