Melissa's Road Race 2026 returns to Banff, Alberta on September 26th as one of Canada’s most historic and popular running events. This race offers a unique blend of competitive spirit and scenic beauty in the heart of Banff National Park. On race morning, runners will gather at the Banff Upper Hot Springs parking lot, surrounded by the lush greenery and towering mountains characteristic of this renowned park. The atmosphere is electric with participants from all walks of life who share a passion for running. As the sun rises, it casts an ethereal glow over the course, enhancing the natural beauty that defines this race. Since 1979, Melissa's Road Race has been a cornerstone event in Banff’s sporting calendar. It routinely attracts thousands of participants each year and is known for its entertainment along the route, contagious spirit, post-run party, and long-sleeved commemorative running shirt featuring local art. Over the years, it has received multiple awards as Alberta's Best Road Race, cementing its place in the community. The race offers a 5K for adults and a Kids K for younger runners, alongside a half marathon option. Each distance presents unique challenges and rewards, making this event suitable for both seasoned athletes and newcomers to competitive running. The course winds through Banff National Park, offering stunning views of waterfalls, forests, and wildlife. The start is at the Upper Hot Springs parking lot in Banff townsite, near the iconic Bow Falls. The half marathon route climbs gently with a total elevation gain of 250 meters before descending into the valley for its final stretch. Runners will pass by the picturesque Lake Louise on their way to the finish line back at the park entrance. Aid stations are strategically placed along the course, offering water and electrolyte stations every two kilometers. The race features a post-run party in downtown Banff, where participants can celebrate with local food and music after crossing the finish line. The typical weather for September 26th will see temperatures ranging from 5 to 19 degrees Celsius, feeling quite comfortable at around 12 degrees. With an average wind speed of four kilometers per hour and a humidity level of 69%, conditions should be ideal for running with minimal discomfort due to heat or cold.
Virtual Run - Half Marathon/10K/5K - International Start: 10:30:00 • Fee: $130.26
To secure your spot, register at https://raceroster.com/events/2026/111686/melissas-road-race-2026 by the deadline to avoid disappointment. Bib pickup is on race day from 7:30 am onwards at the Banff Upper Hot Springs parking lot; bring your ID and a pen. The starting address for this event is Banff Upper Hot Springs Parking Lot, Banff, Alberta T1L 1A5. Age requirements are open to all runners over the age of 18 with no exceptions. A first-timer would do well to double-check their race packet at bib pickup before heading out on the course. Melissa's Road Race 2026 in Banff, Canada, is a must-attend event for its rich history and beautiful setting. The race offers not just a challenge but an experience that celebrates community spirit and natural beauty.
Races Offered
10K
Sep 26, 2026
straighten
Distance —
10km
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
10:30
sell
$119.49
5K
Sep 26, 2026
straighten
Distance —
5km
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
10:30
sell
$97.95
Half Marathon
Sep 26, 2026
straighten
Distance —
21km
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
10:30
sell
$151.80
Virtual Run - Half Marathon/10K/5K - Canada
Sep 26, 2026
straighten
Distance —
21.1K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
10:30
sell
$108.72
Virtual Run - Half Marathon/10K/5K - International
Sep 26, 2026
straighten
Distance —
21.1K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
10:30
sell
$130.26
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for September in Banff.
thermostatTemperature
4.9° / 18.9°
wb_sunnyFeels like
2.6° / 16.4°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
10h 19m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
0.9 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
0.1 cm
air
Avg wind speed
4.4 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Low
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (3.5)
humidity_mid
Humidity
69.5%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
07:18
nightlight
Sunset
19:54
About Banff
Learn more about the host city, Banff.
The town of Banff in Banff National Park, in the Canadian Rockies, is the larger of the two populated areas in Banff National Park, about an hour and a half drive west of Calgary and four hours south of Jasper. Banff is part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site. Like many mountain towns, Banff has a very different character in winter and summer. There is a decent selection of bars and restaurants but predictably a few too many souvenir shops and boutiques. European travellers will especially welcome the sidewalks that facilitate exploration of the town on foot.
