The Valley Vertikiller Trail Race 2026 returns to Abbotsford in British Columbia on October 10th. This event offers three loop courses designed for runners seeking a fast, flowy challenge with technical terrain.
10k
10km • Start: 09:00:00 • Fee: $88.25
20k
20km • Start: 09:00:00 • Fee: $99.03
30K
30km • Start: 09:00:00 • Fee: $109.80
Race morning finds participants gathering at the picturesque Green Park, located near downtown Abbotsford and surrounded by lush greenery and scenic trails. The atmosphere is vibrant as runners prepare to tackle the demanding courses through forested paths, steep climbs, and challenging single-track sections. The event spans a range of distances—10 km, 20 km, and 30 km—with each course offering unique features such as picturesque Chadsey Lake views and an aid station at the Eastern Lookout.
The race has been running since its inception, building a tradition that supports Central Fraser Valley Search and Rescue. This year marks the event's seventh edition, with over 500 participants expected to join in from various communities across British Columbia.
### COURSE AND CONDITIONS
This course venue features predominantly technical single-track trails, providing runners with an array of challenges as they ascend Sumas Mountain for the full 30 km distance. The 20 km race follows a similar route but without the summit climb, while the shorter 10 km Verticuddler offers a more manageable elevation gain and scenic views.
The starting line is at Green Park, with runners heading out on their respective courses before converging back to the finish area near the park. The course layout includes several aid stations where participants can refuel with well-stocked supplies. Additionally, there's a fully catered finish-line celebration complete with custom racer swag and podium cash prizes for top three finishers.
The 30 km Team Challenge allows groups of five or more runners to compete against each other, combining the fastest times from the team members to determine overall results. Teams will earn their name on the trophy and special prizing, plus a 10% discount off registration fees when they sign up as teams.
### WEATHER
The typical weather for October in Abbotsford is mild with an average temperature of 10.4°C (50.7°F) and feels like 10.4°C at race time. The humidity ranges around 85%, making the air feel slightly damp, but not overly oppressive. With a low UV index of 2.8 indicating minimal sun exposure risk, runners can focus on their performance rather than sunscreen application.
The day's winds average around 7.6 km/h (4.7 mph), providing consistent trail conditions that are firm yet slightly soft underfoot. The chance of light rainfall with only 5.8 mm expected means runners should come prepared for wet shoes but no deluge. With five hours and forty-seven minutes of sunshine, the weather is perfect for an early morning race start.
### DISTANCES
The race offers a 10 km (Verticuddler) for those seeking a shorter challenge with moderate elevation gain, a 20 km route that includes much of the same terrain as the longer course but without the full summit climb, and the grueling 30 km option featuring almost 1,500 m of ascent to Sumas Mountain.
### LOGISTICS
To register for this event, visit https://raceroster.com/events/2026/114999/valley-vertikiller-trail-race-2026. The registration fee is $88.25 for the 10 km Verticuddler, $99.03 for the 20 km race, and $109.80 for the 30 km option. Early bird pricing ends on September 1st.
Bib numbers will be available for pickup at Green Park from October 7th to October 9th between 9 AM and 6 PM. Participants should bring their ID and a photo of payment confirmation when picking up bibs.
The start location is Green Park, where runners can find detailed course maps on our website. Age requirements vary by distance—10 years old for the 10 km, 14 years old for the 20 km, and 16 years old for the 30 km. New this year are team challenges with a discount of 10% off registration fees when signing up as teams.
### CLOSING
The Valley Vertikiller Trail Race 2026 on October 10th in Abbotsford offers runners an exciting challenge through technical single-track trails and stunning scenery, all while supporting Central Fraser Valley Search and Rescue. With its unique mix of distances and the opportunity to test your skills against some of British Columbia's best terrain, this race is a must for any trail runner looking to push their limits.
