WILDHORSE TRAVERSE 50k 2026

This page is kept as a past race archive for the May 2, 2026 edition in Kelowna, BC. Use the links below to find upcoming races in the same area or distance category. You can also browse the 2026 race calendar.

The Wildhorse Traverse 50K is a point‑to‑point trail race taking place on May 2, 2026 in Kelowna, British Columbia, organized by PACE Trail Runs. The route crosses the Okanagan landscape from Bertram Creek Regional Park to the lakeside village of Naramata (Manitou Park). The event showcases the rugged canyon and KVR rail corridor terrain that draws trail runners to this region each spring.

This edition runs as a single‑day 50 km event with a 7:00 am start. A mandatory 15‑minute pre‑race briefing precedes the gun. Runners must attend race‑morning gear check (slots open around 6:00–6:45 am) and are expected to be self‑sufficient on long stretches between aid stations. The race operates a shuttle from Naramata to the start (fee applies) and allows one drop bag to be left for Aid Station #2.

What sets Wildhorse Traverse apart is the combination of technical single‑track, sections along the historic Kettle Valley Railway corridor and remote canyon running, all packed into roughly 1,896 m of ascent and 1,903 m of descent. Organizers emphasize preparedness: a short mandatory gear list, minimum carry hydration and on‑course check‑ins at three staffed aid stations (Aid #1 is boat‑access only with limited supplies). Entry includes event swag (soft‑style shirt and shoe bag), post‑race lunch and snacks, professional timing, handmade finisher medals and a donation component supporting F.O.S.S. & COSAR. The race also follows cup‑less and recycling practices at aid stations and the finish.

Registration opens November 14 at 7:00 am PST; early pricing and a 400‑runner cap apply. Shuttle sign‑up and other deadlines are posted with registration.

• Start at Bertram Creek Regional Park (Kelowna) and finish at Manitou Park in Naramata
• 50 km point‑to‑point course over technical single‑track, historic KVR rail grades and remote canyon sections
• Total ascent approximately 1,896 m and total descent approximately 1,903 m
• Three staffed aid stations: Aid #1 (remote, boat access), Aid #2 (south parking lot of OK Mountain Provincial Park off Chute Lake Road) and Aid #3 (Smethurst Parking Lot along the KVR)
• Mandatory gear and start requirements include a lightweight jacket, emergency blanket, a minimum 1.5 L carried hydration and at least 400 calories

• Big climbing reward: 1,896 metres of ascent packed into the 50 km point‑to‑point course
• Remote aid station: Aid #1 is accessible only by boat and carries limited supplies—plan to start with at least 1.5 L of fluid and 400 calories
• Historic rails and canyon single‑track: Significant sections run along the KVR grade and through narrow canyon terrain for varied, technical trail running
• Included post‑race meal: Entry includes lunch (pizza and curry) and post‑race snacks at the finish
• Sustainable race operations: cup‑less aid stations, recyclable bibs and composting at starts/finishes minimize race waste