The Howling Ghost Trail Race returns to the Springwater Conservation Area in Aylmer, Ontario on Saturday, September 26th, 2026 for its fourth edition. The race offers a challenging journey through the Carolinian forest with options including the New Era Grafix 8k, Always Moving 16k, and BackRoads Brews + Shoes 24k. For those seeking an extra challenge, the Structural Panels Inc. Night Howl sub-event is open to runners who wish to complete a 5K during night hours.
New Era Grafix 8k
8K • Start: 10:30:00 • Fee: CA$65.42
Structural Panels Inc. Night Howl 8k
8K • Start: 10:30:00 • Fee: CA$65.42
The Howling Ghost Trail Race has been running since 2023, and this year marks its fourth edition. Over three years of operation, it has attracted numerous participants each time, making it a beloved event in the community. The race benefits the Children's Health Foundation with proceeds donated by the organizers to support local initiatives. The course is marked by wide, groomed trails that offer both novice runners and seasoned trail enthusiasts an excellent experience. For the Always Moving 16k, you'll complete two loops of the 8k course; the BackRoads Brews + Shoes 24k requires three loops. The New Era Grafix 8k is a single loop, while for those participating in the Day/Night Challenge, there are limited spots available to run one race during daylight and return later that night. Gates open at 9:00 AM on September 26th for day races; Night Howl participants must arrive by 6:00 PM. The weather is expected to be firm and slightly soft with a moderate UV index, ensuring conditions are conducive to running but not overly harsh. Trail runners should consider the temperature range and potential wind or precipitation risks. Registration can be done via https://raceroster.com/events/2026/116510/the-howling-ghost-trail-race. The cost for Always Moving 16k is CA$70.88, with limited spots available. For the BackRoads Brews + Shoes 24k, it's a bit more at CA$76.32, also with limited availability. Day/Night Challenges are priced higher but offer unique experiences. Bibs can be picked up on race day from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM; runners need to bring their own water bottles and warm clothing for the night event. The start location is at Springwater Conservation Area, located just off Aylmer Road in Aylmer, Ontario. This year’s Howling Ghost Trail Race offers a rewarding experience with scenic trails and supportive community atmosphere. It's an exceptional opportunity for runners to explore beautiful fall foliage while contributing to local health initiatives.
Races Offered
Always Moving 16k
Sep 26, 2026
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Distance —
16K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
10:30
sell
$70.88
BackRoads Brews + Shoes 24k
Sep 26, 2026
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Distance —
24K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
10:30
sell
$76.32
Day/Night 16k/8k
Sep 26, 2026
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Distance —
16K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
10:30
sell
$119.89
Day/Night 24k/8k
Sep 26, 2026
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Distance —
24K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
10:30
sell
$122.07
Day/Night 8k/8k
Sep 26, 2026
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Distance —
8K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
10:30
sell
$116.62
New Era Grafix 8k
Sep 26, 2026
straighten
Distance —
8K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
10:30
sell
$65.42
Structural Panels Inc. Night Howl 8k
Sep 26, 2026
straighten
Distance —
8K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
10:30
sell
$65.42
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for September in Aylmer.
thermostatTemperature
13.4° / 22.7°
wb_sunnyFeels like
12.2° / 22.1°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
10h 26m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
1.5 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
10.1 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Moderate
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (5.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
77.1%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
07:04
nightlight
Sunset
19:32
About Aylmer
Learn more about the host city, Aylmer.
Aylmer is a town of about 7,700 people (2021) in Southwestern Ontario in Canada.
