2025 Emperor's Challenge

This page is kept as a past race archive for the Aug 9, 2025 edition in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia. Use the links below to find upcoming races in the same area or distance category.

The Emperor’s Challenge is a challenging half marathon held on Babcock Mountain in the Tumbler Ridge UNESCO Global Geopark. Covering 20 kilometers with a summit climb at 11 kilometers and an elevation gain of 610 meters (2,050 feet), this race has been a cornerstone event since 1999, raising funds for the Wolverine Nordic & Mountain Society to support trail maintenance and community activities.

The 2025 race celebrates the 25th anniversary, inviting trail runners to experience the stunning mountainous terrain and the unique challenge of climbing over 6,100 feet in elevation, starting at over 4,000 feet. The event is capped at 1,000 participants and includes kids' races following the main event.

• Starts at Core Lodge site, elevation over 4,000 feet
• Summit reached at 11 km, total 20 km distance
• Total elevation gain of 610 meters (2,050 feet)
• Aid stations at 8.5 km (must reach by noon) and 14 km (must pass by 1:30 PM)
• Maximum race time: 5 hours
• Trail surface throughout

• Scenic mountainous course within Tumbler Ridge UNESCO Global Geopark
• Challenging summit climb reaching over 6,100 feet elevation
• 25th anniversary event in 2025
• Fundraiser supporting local trail maintenance and community
• Kids' races following the main event