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Following a highly successful inaugural season, the second annual Elk Valley Ultra 5K & Relay is set to take place in Fernie on July 28. Set among the stunning backdrop of Fernie’s most scenic and un-raced trails, the race is sure to be breathtaking, both literally and figuratively.

The race starts and ends in Annex Park, which is located next to the Elk River. The race progresses up to the top of Mount Fernie and then onto Windy Pass. It then winds down to Island Lake Lodge and then Old Growth Trail. This first leg of the race is a total of 20.5km and has a vertical climb of 1480m.

The second leg of the race is as follows: Rail Trail – Lazy Lizard – P9 Climb – Stupid Trail Up! – Slunt – Brokeback – Lazy Lizard extension – Provincial Park – Elk Valley Nordic Centre. The third, and final portion for leg 3a is: Elk Valley Nordic Centre – Bridge View Connector – Sherwoody – Happy (angry) Gilmar – Old Goat – Gorby – Provincial Park Connector – EVNC (aid station) and for leg 3b: Stove – Mushroom Head – Red Sonja – Town Loop – Annex Park.

All in all, the race consists of 2800m of climbing and almost 95 percent of single track racing. Runners have the option of competing solo or as part of a relay team. Registration for the race is open until July 20. The cost is $125 for solo runners, $190 for a two-person team, and $285 for a three-person team. The race is limited to 175 solo racers and 25 teams. Fees for the event also pay for a race tee for each participant, a post-race dinner, finishers medal, a Fernie Brewing Co beer at the finish line, prizes and first aid stations.

If you’re planning on racing in the Elk Valley Ultra or cheering on someone who is, then you’ll need some accommodation in the Fernie area. The Fernie Stanford Resort has all the amenities you need for a relaxing stay and we’re very conveniently located for getting to and from the race.