Few places in Alberta are more scenic than Castle Provincial Park in the fall, with the slopes covered in fiery red brush and bright tamarack. The valley is now home to Castle Alpine Trail Race; one of Canada’s most remarkable mountain runs. “This is a special place in our province,” says race director Brian Gallant, adding, “I love everything about the area and I want people to get the chance to enjoy it”.
Hosted at Castle Mountain Resort, the race, which is affectionately known as CAT, offers the experience of a big alpine trail race in a single day. This is a classic trail run covering two mountain summits and one of the most serene alpine valleys in the region. Each stage starts and ends at the resort, so it is easy to take advantage of the services throughout the day.
CAT combines wide-open vistas, rugged single track, a bit of off-trail alpine running, and lots of climbing. At 28 km, it is not an extraordinarily long race distance-wise, but will challenge everyone with its elevation and rugged terrain. The eight-and-a-half-hour time limit means that there is a high finish rate so it is a great event for people who are new to trail running. The race is open to solo runners and teams of two or three.
As the day winds down, racers get to enjoy live music, a catered BBQ meal, and a bonfire with their competition and the race crew.
Register early if you want to reserve a spot. Due to the sensitive landscape and wildlife movement in the area, the race is capped at 200 people. If you are feeling extra ambitious, CAT is also a part of the Sinister Sports Four Horsemen series, where competing in any solo distance in Sinister 7 Ultra, Canadian Death Race, Black Spur Ultra, and CAT earns you a unique belt buckle.
