Vancouver Island Trail Running Series - Port Alberni 2026

The Vancouver Island Trail Running Series - Port Alberni 2026 takes place on Saturday, June 6, 2026, starting at 10:00 AM PDT from E.J. Dunn Elementary School on Argyle Street in Port Alberni, British Columbia, Canada. As part of Vancouver Island's premiere trail running series, this event takes runners off the roads and onto some of Western Canada's most amazing trail networks, featuring a Long Course of approximately 22km with 530m vertical gain and a Short Course of approximately 10km with 250m vertical gain, plus a kids' run – all starting and finishing at EJ Dunn Elementary School with a post-race BBQ.

Event Logistics and Participant Information:

• Registration Opens: Friday, December 5, 2025, at 7:00 AM PST.
• Online Registration Closes: Thursday, June 4, 2026, at 11:59 PM PDT. No online registrations are accepted after this time.
• Post-Race BBQ: A post-race BBQ is included for participants, adding to the festive atmosphere.
• Charitable Component: The event supports the Alberni Valley Rescue Squad, with CA$600 raised toward a CA$2,000 goal.
• Course Characteristics: Port Alberni trails are described as technical, fast, flowy, beautiful, and fun – offering a complete trail running experience.
• Location: Start and finish at E.J. Dunn Elementary School, providing a central and accessible race hub.

Route and Atmosphere:

• Terrain: The Port Alberni trail network features a mix of technical sections, flowing singletrack, and beautiful forested landscapes typical of Vancouver Island.
• Long Course Profile: Approximately 22km with 530 metres of vertical gain – suitable for experienced trail runners seeking a challenging distance.
• Short Course Profile: Approximately 10km with 250 metres of vertical gain – accessible for intermediate runners or those newer to trail running.
• Kids' Run: A shorter, untimed event for younger participants, encouraging family involvement and early exposure to trail running.
• Community Vibe: The post-race BBQ and school-based start/finish create a welcoming, community-oriented atmosphere for runners, volunteers, and spectators.
• Series Prestige: As part of the Frontrunners Vancouver Island Trail Running Series (the region's premiere trail series), this event attracts runners from across Western Canada.
• Scenery: Runners experience some of the most amazing trail networks in Western Canada, with forest cover, natural surfaces, and island topography.

The Vancouver Island Trail Running Series - Port Alberni 2026 invites trail runners to experience technical, flowy, and beautiful courses on Vancouver Island's premiere trail network – with distances for all ages and a post-race BBQ celebrating the spirit of community trail running in Port Alberni, British Columbia.