You live here or youâve always wanted to come here. Let Vancouver Island take your breath away with its running experiences. From waterfront marathons to lively 10Ks and challenging ultras, weâve got something for everyone. Whether youâre looking for a gentle jog, a scenic trail run, or an all-out ultra-marathon challenge, the Island delivers.
Hereâs a full look at whatâs coming up this season on Vancouver Island, lots of chances to run, explore, compete, and connect with our local running community.
Island Road Series - Perfect for Road Runners & 10K/Half-Marathon Fans
If you prefer pavement, fast times, and organized road-race vibes, the Road Series is for you. Organized by Vancouver Island Race Series, this series brings regular, certified races from early winter through spring.
January 11 - Pioneer 8K
A great way to kick off your race year: flat-ish roads, good crowd, and a fast 8 km to shake off the holidays.
January 25 - Cobble Hill 10K
A great 10K distance on gentle roads, perfect if youâre building toward a half or just want a solid early-season run.Â
February 8 - Hatley Castle 8K
Run past the historic grounds and through scenic areas around Colwood. A nice mid-winter challenge for those wanting a shorter but beautiful route.Â
February 22 - Bastion 12K
Get some extra kilometers in, a 12 km road run to challenge yourself a bit more.Â
March 8 - Sooke 10K
A challenging 10K, ideal for those who are training for an upcoming half or a marathon, breeze, and a slightly different vibe from the city runs.
March 22 - Comox Half Marathon
The half-marathon pick for the season, a bigger challenge and a good mid-season goal if youâre training for longer distances.Â
March 29 - McLean Mill 10K
Port Alberni hosts this 10K road run, a good option for island folks a bit farther north. Beautiful roads to run on.Â
April 12 - Bazan 5K
A shorter, fun 5 km. Great for recovery runs, newcomers to racing or runners who prefer speed over distance. This race often brings the fastest athletes on Vancouver Island or abroad.Â
Check out the Island Race Series HERE --->
These road races are ideal if you want measured distances, consistent pace, and a nice mix of community, competition, and approachable logistics.
Island Trail Series - For Trail Lovers, Adventure Seekers & Nature Runners
If you love forest paths, dirt trails, and the unpredictability of nature underfoot, the Island Trail Series brings fun, challenge, and variety across the island. Island Trail Series
April 11 - Royal Roads 11 km / 6 km
An easy-to-moderate trail run, good for beginners, families or anyone wanting a relaxed trail start to the season.
May 9 - Lake Cowichan 26 km / 13 km
Challenging but scenic, pick either the long or short course depending on your training.Â
June 6 - Port Alberni 22 km / 10 km
A beautiful forest route with a mix of terrain, good for those who like variety in trail runs.
July 4 - Ladysmith 20 km / 10 km
A summer trail run through island woodlands, perfect for mid-year training or a holiday-weekend challenge.Â
August 15 - Cobble Hill 25 km / 12 km
A longer-distance trail run for seasoned trail runners or those wanting to step up their distance game.
October 24 - Qualicum Bay 26 km / 11 km
Late-season trail run, crisp air, cooler weather, and the beauty of Vancouver Island trails in fall colours. Join the Banquet after the event for a fun evening celebrating the whole series.Â
Check out the Island Trail Series HERE --->
The Trail Series offers variety: short fun runs, longer trail challenges, and great access for runners across Vancouver Island. Great for folks who love trail running, ultras, or just exploring nature underfoot.
Major Events - For Serious Goals or Festive Runs
Beyond series races, there are a few standout runs that bring together the local community, runners from around the island, and a chance for a bigger challenge.
May 24 - Oak Bay Half / 10K / Kids Run
A family-friendly event with distances for all abilities, great for a big community vibe and inclusive racing.
April 26 - TC 10K
Another solid road run for those who love the 10K distance, a perfect spring tune-up. Community focused and welcomes everyone.Â
October 9-11 - RVM Marathon / Half / 8K / 5K
The big one, marathon weekend for runners who want to go the distance, or choose a shorter race if youâre easing in. Scenic and the whole package. A great boston qualifying race.
These events are often festive, well organized, and attract runners from across the world. Great if you want to test yourself, celebrate with friends, or just enjoy a big race atmosphere.
Coastline Endurance Trail Events - For the Brave, the Adventurous, the Dedicated
For runners who crave rugged terrain, ultra-distances, and breathtaking coastal mountain scenery, the lineup from Coastline Endurance Running and other local trail organizers delivers.
March 14 - Hornby Island 50K / 25K - a trail or ultra-trail run on the island, perfect for those wanting more than a standard race. First time this year and already sold out! Watch out for a spot in 2027!
June 20 - Kusam Klimb 24 K / 13 K - enjoy mountain views and a serious climb for runners looking to challenge themselves beyond steady roads. Best pre and post event experience, camping with friends and the new ones you'll get to meet.
Kusam Klimb Registration --->Â
September 12â13 - Finlayson Arm 50 mile / 50 K / 28 K - perhaps the ultimate test for island trail runners: a coastal-mountain ultra running through old growth forest, coastal trails, and epic views. This race is known for its difficult climbs (Mt. Finlayson, Mt. Work, Jocelyn Hill), rugged terrain, and wild beauty. Beers at the finishline and another big party to welcome all runners. A two day trail festival one might say.Â
Finlayson Arm Registration --->Â
For those chasing trail-running thrills, ultra distances, or simply something completely different from the road, these races are not just runs, but experiences. Stunning landscapes, technical terrain, and real endurance.
Why You Should Run on Vancouver Island This Year
Diverse terrain: Road, trail, coastal, forest, mountain - you choose.
Events all year long: From chilly January road runs to summer trail adventures to autumn ultras, thereâs always a race.
Community-focused: Local runners, clubs, volunteers, and a strong sense of camaraderie.
Accessible options: Whether youâre new to running or seasoned, 5 km to 50+ mile ultras, thereâs an event for you.
Nature & scenery: Vancouver Island isnât just about times and finishes, itâs about forest trails, seaside paths, and coastal views.
Whether youâre chasing a personal best, training for distance, or simply want to explore Vancouver Islandâs beauty, thereâs a race (or three) waiting for you.
See you on the Roads and/or Trails in 2026! #weareallfrontrunners
