Canmore Quad 2026

Think you’ve got what it takes to crush the Canmore Quad? This isn’t just another trail run—it’s a test of endurance that’ll leave you questioning your sanity. We’re talking about summiting four classic local peaks—Mount Lady MacDonald, Grotto Mountain, the East End of Rundle (EEOR), and Ha Ling—in one relentless, 52-kilometer grind. Oh, and did we mention the 4,700 meters of vertical gain? Yeah, it’s a beast.

Start at SkiUphill downtown Canmore and strategize your own route. This isn’t just a race against time; it’s a tactical battle against the rough and unforgiving terrain the Canadian Rockies throw at us. If you think you’ve got the guts to handle it, this is your proving ground.

So, gear up, grit your teeth, and get ready for a big day up in the hills. The mountains are waiting. Are you ready to answer the call?

See you at the top—or is it at the bottom?

Solo or Teams?

New for this year, we’re opening up a Teams Category! Because friends don't let friends suffer alone. Grab a crew of 2, 3, or 4 runners and tackle the Canmore Quad together. Split the peaks, strategize your approach, and share the highs, lows, and everything in between. Whether you're looking to ease into this epic challenge or just want some company on those soul-crushing climbs, this is your chance to squad up and spread the pain. Teamwork makes the dream hurt less—or at least makes it more fun.

The Format

This is a free and unofficial meetup.

Start and Finish will be at our Canmore store at 906 Bow Valley Trail. It's a pretty central location and it's on the shortest course through town.

• You can do the peaks in whatever order you want, as long as you summit all four. You are free to start with either side of the valley. The current FKT was done starting with Ha Ling then EEOR, then Grotto and Lady MacDonald. However most runners run the Quad in the following order: Grotto, Lady MacDonald, EEOR, Ha Ling. 
• Running across town between the North side peaks and the South side peaks is mandatory. No biking and no driving in between peaks.
• The true summit of Lady MacDonald is accessed through an exposed ridge requiring some hands-on scrambling. To complete the Quad, you have to tag the true summit. However, there is no shame if it is too exposed for your liking. Please use caution and respect your limits!
• Official start time: 5AM - 7AM  (we recommend starting between 5 AM and 6 AM)

You run, we support: 3 aid stations will be setup on the course where you will have access to water, electrolytes, drink mix, gels, and other snacks. 

• The first one will be at Cougar Creek  near the crossing between Grotto Mountain and Lady MacDonald outside of the construction site.
• The second one will be at the EEOR trailhead.
• The third one will be at the store which is also the start/finish line on Bow Valley Trail.

There will be an after-party at our Bow Valley Trail location. 

The Course

• Distance: approximately 52 km
• Elevation gain: Approximately 4700 m
• Strava Route Link
• GPX File