The Okanagan Valley sits at a unique crossroads of terrain. Dry grasslands blend into pine forests, rolling lakeshore trails rise into rugged alpine, and long runnable stretches are never far from steep, technical climbs. For trail runners, that variety is pure gold. While many standout events call the Okanagan home, a few must-do races lie just beyond the valley, still within a reasonable drive, expanding the season to include early-spring forest races, high-summer alpine ultras, and crisp fall events that round out the year in classic Interior BC fashion.

February 21 - Run Ridge Run (SOLD OUT)

Location: Anmore, BC
Date: Saturday, February 21 2026
Difficulty: Moderate
Distances: 13km, 25km
Website: trailrunning.ca/race/run-ridge-run/

A classic early-season trail race winding through the forested trails around Sasamat and Buntzen Lakes. Expect punchy climbs, rooty singletrack, and cool winter conditions that reward smart pacing and solid footing. A great tune-up race to kick off the year.

April 11 - Diez Vista 50k (SOLD OUT)

Location: Anmore, BC
Date: Saturday, April 11 2026
Difficulty: High
Distances: 50 km
Website: trailrunning.ca/race/diez-vista/

A legendary west-coast ultra known for relentless climbing and technical descents. The Diez Vista 50k is not for the faint of heart and is often considered a rite of passage for BC trail runners.

May 3 - Dirty Feet Kal Park 50

Location: Vernon, BC
Date: Sunday, May 3 2026
Difficulty: Moderate/High
Distances: 8km, 25km, 50km
Website: dirtyfeet.ca/product/dirty-feet-kal-park-50/

Set in the stunning grasslands and lakeside trails of Kal Park, this race offers a distance for everyone. Rolling terrain, great views, and typically fast conditions make it a favorite in the Okanagan.

May 30 - Run For Water Trail Race

Location: Abbotsford, BC
Date: Saturday, May 30 2026
Difficulty: Moderate to High
Distances: 10km, 25km, 50km
Website: runforwater.ca/trail2026

A purpose-driven race supporting clean water initiatives worldwide. Expect challenging climbs, forested trails, and a strong community vibe.

June 20 - Slay The Dragon

Location: Silver Star (Vernon, BC)
Date: Saturday, June 20 2026
Difficulty: High
Distances: 13.6km, 25km, 50km
Website: www.bushbabestrailrunning.com/slay-the-dragon-trail-race

High-alpine running with serious elevation gain. Expect rugged climbs, sweeping views, and unpredictable mountain weather.

June 27 - Tackle the Toad

Location: Nelson, BC
Date: Saturday, June 27 2026
Difficulty: High
Distances: 20km, 50km
Website: tacklethetoad.com

A challenging Kootenay race with technical trails, steep climbs, and a strong local trail community backing the event.

July 18 - Broken Goat

Location: Rossland, BC
Date: Saturday, July 18 2026
Difficulty: High
Distances: 12km, 25km, 50km
Website: pacetrailruns.com/broken-goat

Known for its rugged alpine terrain and classic mountain ultra feel. Expect big climbs, remote sections, and a true backcountry atmosphere.

September 13 - Frosty Mountain

Location: Manning Park, BC
Date: Saturday, September 13 2025
Difficulty: High
Distances: 13km, 27km, 50km
Website: trailwhisperer.ca/frosty/

An alpine classic featuring rocky ridgelines, dramatic scenery, and unpredictable mountain weather. A longtime favorite among BC trail runners.

October 10 - Wandering Moose

Location: Kelowna, BC
Date: Saturday, October 10 2026
Difficulty: Moderate
Distances: 12km, 25km, 35km
Website: www.pacetrailruns.com/wandering-moose1

A fall favorite in the Okanagan with runnable trails, cooler temps, and a relaxed, community-focused atmosphere to close out the season.

Final Thoughts

BC’s trail race calendar offers something for every type of runner. If any of the information needs updating, or if there is an event I missed, please leave a comment or email me at daniel@okaywego.com or leave a comment on which races you'll be attending.