The Whistler Insider
A runner comes into Whistler Village at the end of the Whistler 50 Relay and Ultra amidst the fall colours.
In Festivals & Events

10 Heart Pumping Bike and Running Race Events in Whistler

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There’s nothing like the energy of a group sporting event – racing side-by-side with your competitors, hearts beating and energy pulsing as you challenge your mind and body. Whistler’s in-person running and biking events are back this fall after going virtual last year.

A runner comes into Whistler Village at the end of the Whistler 50 Relay and Ultra amidst the fall colours.
Enjoy fall colours and epic mountain views in any of Whistler’s races. PHOTO CLINT TRAHAN

Here are 10 events you won’t want to miss, and a few tips for how to elevate your race experience.  

The Back Forty, Marathon XC Mountain Bike Race

September 11, 2021

In the spirit of Pemberton’s leg-wobbling NIMBY Fifty, The Back Forty bike race is a punishing cross-country grind from Function Junction south to Cougar Mountain. But, don’t let that dissuade you. The inaugural three-stage course covers 29.4 kilometres (18.2 miles) of singletrack, with a gruelling 1,800 metres (5,900 feet) of ascent — don’t worry, there is a descent too. The event is in support of the Whistler Off-Road Cycling Association (WORCA) and memberships are required for registration. 

 

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INSIDER TIP: The official après takes place at RideWrap in Function Junction and the perfect location for a post-party pint would be at Whistler Brewing Company and / or Coast Mountain Brewing. 

Whistler X Triathlon

September 12, 2021

This isn’t your ordinary triathlon. The Whistler X Tri course, which takes place in and around Lost Lake Park, features a 750 metre (0.5 mile) swim, 11.6 kilometres (7.2 miles) of beginner and intermediate bike trails and 5.2 kilometres (3.2 miles) of running.

In addition to the sport category, there are also separate Age Group World Championship spots to qualify for the 2022 ITU World Cross Triathlon Championships in Townsville, Australia. Since there is no parking at Lost Lake on race day, you can walk or bike along the Valley Trail from Whistler Village to reach the start, finish and transition areas. 

INSIDER TIP: Lost Lake is a stone’s throw away from the Scandinave Spa, a prime spot to soothe your aching muscles after a hard day of activity.

West Side Wheel Up Mountain Bike Race

September 18, 2021

The 29th annual West Side Wheel Up will soon roll into town. The WORCA cross-country mountain bike event—affectionately dubbed “Whistler’s coolest mountain bike race” – is one of BC’s longest-running bike races. This race isn’t exactly a piece of cake though. Starting and ending at Rainbow Park, the course (with dessert-inspired trail names like Whipped Cream and Green Jello) winds through 14.7 kilometres (9 miles) of classic Whistler XC trails, with 420 metres (0.26 miles) of climbing. 

INSIDER TIP: Once the after-party wraps up in Rainbow Park, head into Whistler Village for casual bites and drinks at Stonesedge Kitchen.

Rotary Brandywine Boogie Trail Run

September 18, 2021

Explore the natural beauty of the Sea to Sky Trail when you participate in the Rotary Brandywine Boogie Trail Run. This 9 kilometre (5.6 mile) point-to-point run takes you through the lush forest from Cheakamus to Cal Cheak Campground along an undulating gravel trail. The fun continues, as all runners are automatically entered into the impressive prize draw. 

INSIDER TIP: Since you’re heading to Function Junction, be sure to stop in at Creekside Village on the way and grab post-race goodies at Confetti Gelato and BReD. 

Whistler Alpine Meadows Trail Running Races

September 24-26, 2021

The acronym (WAM) says it all. With panoramic alpine vistas and next-level physical challenge, the Whistler Alpine Meadows Trail Running Series will simply take your breath away. The three-day event features six different races that traverse over bridges, through lush alpine meadows, and wind their way up, way up.

On the way, runners will see waterfalls, wildflowers, tarns, and lakes as they summit some of Whistler’s most challenging trails. Races include the Blackcomb Ascent run, as well as a 25 kilometre (15.5 mile), 50 kilometre (31 mile), 90 kilometre (60 mile)—plus the Triple WAMMY and Triple WAMMY!+ (because your legs can handle it, right?). Young trail runners aged three to 10 can participate in their very own Kids Race, too. What’s more, $5 per entry will be donated to local, Whistler trail organizations. 

INSIDER TIP: Treat yourself to some post-run pampering at The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel. On the menu? A much-needed sports massage and signature Canadian Maple Syrup and Brown Sugar Scrub. 

Comfortably Numb Trail Race

October 2, 2021

Comfortably Numb Trail Race lives up to this name. Take to this famous mountain bike trail on two feet instead of two wheels. The 25 kilometre (15.5 mile) iconic point-to-point singletrack trail runs from Wedgemount pit parking area to Spruce Grove Park, travelling over technical terrain with breathtaking views along the way. Shuttle buses from Spruce Grove Park depart from 5:30 AM and cost $5 to the start line. 

A runner heads through the forests in the Comfortably Numb race in Whistler.
Gnarly root-filled trails face runners in the Comfortably Numb race. PHOTO MIKE CRANE
INSIDER TIP: Since you’ll be burning some serious calories, why not indulge in a hearty meal to fuel your body? Comfort foods at Hunter Gather or Ohyama Ramen in Whistler Village might just do the trick. 

Whistler Half Marathon

October 9-10, 2021

The Whistler Half Marathon – with its spectacular scenery, varied terrain, and fun atmosphere – is a bucket-list event for many runners. What began as a single half marathon in 2010 has blossomed into an exciting multi-day event that celebrates the sport of running. The event kicks off with the signature Half Marathon and the 30 kilometre (18.6 mile). Both are sold out for the 2021 season, but you can still cheer on the hard-working athletes. If you want to be part of the fun without the intensity, you can check out the 5 kilometre (3.6 mile) or 10 kilometre (6.2 mile) on Sunday.

Runners head down the Whistler Valley Trail between a river and the forest in the Whistler Half Marathon.
PHOTO JUSTA JESKOVA
INSIDER TIP: After the run has wrapped, visit The Spa at Nita Lake Lodge to heal your body and mind. Their specialty package includes a gentle Kundalini Massage, which uses essential oils, chakra, sound healing and ancient massage techniques.  

The Whistler Turkey Trot

October 11, 2021

After gobble-gobbling your way through the Canadian Thanksgiving long weekend, you can work off the feast with the family-friendly Whistler Turkey Trot. Part of the Whistler Half Marathon family, the Turkey Trot is a feel-good event with a celebratory vibe. Runners will descend upon Lost Lake for a fun-filled 5 kilometre (3.6 mile) or 10 kilometre (6.2 mile) trail run in support of Crohn’s and Colitis Canada. 

INSIDER TIP: Aside from running, there is plenty of fun to be had in Whistler over the Thanksgiving long weekend. Browse for gear at early season sales, see the fall colours up close with an ATV or zipline tour, and enjoy entertainment in Whistler Village. 

Canadian National Enduro Series

October 15-17, 2021

Whistler is a signature stop on the Canadian National Enduro Series circuit. The has become the flagship enduro series in Canada and the preeminent enduro series in North America. Riders can expect a minimum of 2,000 metre (6,500 foot) of climbing and 3,500 metre (11,400 foot.) of descending, spanning across approximately 45 kilometres (28 miles) of cross-country track. 

INSIDER TIP: After an epic ride like that, you’ll want to celebrate. The Fitzsimmons Pub in the Upper Village (self-proclaimed “Whistler’s coziest pub”) is a small place with a big heart; serving craft beer, a killer Caesar and a great selection of bourbon and whiskey.

Whistler 50 Relay and Ultra

October 16, 2021

Run for the party. Run for the community. Run for yourself. No matter what your reason, everyone is welcome at the Whistler 50 Relay and Ultra, benefiting Food Banks in the Sea-to-Sky Corridor. Relay teams of four or eight people can tag-team distances ranging from 10 kilometre (6.2 mile) to 50 kilometre (31 mile). Whether you’re a first-time runner or an experienced ultra-marathoners, there’s something for you. 

Runners crossing the line at the Whistler 50 Relay and Ultra.
Fist pumps at the finish line. PHOTO CLINT TRAHAN
INSIDER TIP: The morning after your run, you might just want to head for a carb-filled brunch. Try Crêpe Montagne in Whistler Village, the Wildflower Restaurant at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler in the Upper Village, or Southside Diner in Creekside for sweet and savoury delights. 

Find more upcoming events and what’s on details at Whistler.com/events. Fall in Whistler offers great value on accommodation with rooms from $129 per night, plus a free $100 Dining Voucher when you book a stay of 3 nights or more with Whistler.com.

Author

Amber is a freelance storyteller and outdoor adventurer who has spent 9 years living in the beautiful Sea to Sky Corridor. When not crafting content and creative for her clients, she spends her spare time snowboarding, hiking, biking and SUPing her way through the wilds of BC. Fun Fact: she spent the first 7 years of her life living on a sailboat and travelling the world with her family. Now, she has the best of both worlds, splitting her time between ocean and mountains—and loving every minute of it.

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