Movement is Medicine

Starting at Lions Bluff trailhead and climbing steeply up to the CBC tower, runners will traverse Nelson's iconic Elephant Mountain. After conquering the summit, the course descends past Flagpole and Pulpit Rock before finishing with a run/walk across Orange Bridge into Lakeside Park. This is approximately 13km of well-marked trail and 3km on road, making it an all-day adventure for both fast hikers and runners.
This event has been running since 2022, growing in popularity each year as participants from around the region gather to support local charities and scholarships. With over a hundred participants expected this time, Movement is Medicine remains a significant community gathering, fostering unity and promoting health through movement.
The course venue offers a mix of terrain with firm but slightly soft trails that can be slippery after rain. The UV index on race morning will likely range from 3 to 4, indicating moderate exposure risk. Runners should expect cooler temperatures in the early afternoon, around 10°C, with some wind and light cloud cover which could make conditions feel a degree or two colder.
The Elephant Mountain Challenge | 16K is open for registration at https://raceroster.com/events/2026/125440/movement-is-medicine. The fee to participate is CA$55.76, with early bird deadlines closing on September 1st and regular registrations ending by the day of the event.
Participants should arrive at Lions Bluff trailhead around race time, bringing their own water supply as there will be no aid stations along the course except for a basic first aid checkpoint between Flagpole and the CBC tower. Bib pickup is available from Nelson Running Company on September 24th and 25th during regular business hours.
For those new to Movement is Medicine, remember that this event requires a minimum of two layers due to cooler temperatures in late afternoon. Age requirements are open to all runners over 18 years old; first-timers should ensure they have appropriate footwear and clothing for the varied terrain.
Movement is Medicine Nelson, British Columbia on September 26th brings together community members through challenge and support. With its unique course that showcases Nelson's natural beauty while supporting local causes, this event stands as a testament to the power of movement in medicine.