Overview
The 2026 running of the Sulphur Springs Trail Race is brought to you by Altra. We are excited to partner with a shoe brand that understands trail running and the special needs that trail runners have when it comes to staying strong and in control for the entire race; no matter how long you're out there.
Join the Altra team at one of our on-course training runs where you can demo some of the best trail shoes on the market. In fact, Altra is the fastest growing trail shoe in the starting corral at Western States. Altra training run dates will be announced on our social media channels and in emails to registered runners only.
The race uses a looping course that traverses over 500m/1500ft of elevation gain per 20K loop. Nestled in the town of Ancaster, Ontario, the Dundas Valley is home to a beautiful old Carolinian forest, complete with a (mostly) double track trail network that will challenge you and reward you at the same time. Don't dare miss this event, it is Canada's oldest Ultra trail event, and is also Ontario's only WSER 100 Qualifier!
Course Details
This unbelievable 20K looped course is a hidden gem inside the Dundas Valley Conservation Area of Ancaster, Ontario.
With wildlife teeming through this old Carolinian Forest, and waterfalls cascading over rocks along the course, your legs may not even notice traversing the over 500m / 1500 feet of elevation per 20K loop. Expect to be challenged on this (mostly) double track trail as you are supported with 4 fully stocked Aid Stations along the way.
The Sulphur Springs Trail Race 100K and 100 Mile events are now Western States Endurance Run Qualifying Races. We are proud to be the newest in Canada and the First race in Ontario to serve as a WSER 100 Qualifier. More details are available below.
This is the longest running Ultra Race in Ontario, dating back to 1992. Our 2026 race promises to be another great one - get your bibs early, this race sells out!
Course Details
All runners (including relay runners) will start and finish their races/loops at the Sulphur Springs Trail Race Parking Lot behind Morgan Firestone Arena.
It is the responsibility of each participant to be familiar with the course and the trail markings along each 20K loop or the 10K course as applicable.
The basic course is a 20K loop and has a 520m elevation gain per loop.
The 20K GPX File is HERE
The 10K Loop used for the 10K Race, as well as for the first lap the 50K Race, has a 273m elevation gain per loop. The 10K GPX file is HERE
Schedule
Race Kit Pick Up
Wednesday May 20th - Location TBD 11:00 - 18:00
Thursday May 21st - Location TBD 10:30 - 20:00
Friday May 22nd - Location TBD 10:00 - 13:00
Friday May 22nd - On-site @ Race Registration Tent 15:00 - 20:00
Saturday May 23rd - On-site @ Race Registration Tent 5:00 - 6:30
Sunday may 24th - On-site @ Race Registration Tent 5:30 - 8:00
Race Weekend Schedule
Friday May 22nd
16:00 Site opens for runners to setup crew tents.
17:00 100 Mile Club officially opens
Saturday May 23rd
05:30-05:40 Pre-race announcements for ultra and relay runners
05:45 am 50 Mile runners START
06:00 am 100K runners START
06:15 am 100 Mile solo & 100 Mile relay runners START
06:45 Pre-race announcements for 50K runners
07:00 am 50K runners START
18:00 50M Night relay runners START
21:00 50K ultimate cut-off (14 Hours)
24:00 100K cut-off for WSER qualifying (18 hours)
Sunday May 24th
07:15 Pre-race announcements for 20K runners
07:30 20K runners START
08:15 50M, 100K, 100 Mile, & relay runners - LAST LAP Cut-off
08:15 Pre-race announcements for 10K runners
08:30 10K runners START
10:30 10K & 20K Podium awards
10:45 10K & 20K Age group awards
12:15 10K, 20K, 50M, 100K, 100 Mile & 100 Mile & 50 Mile relays
ultimate cut-off (30 Hours for ultra runners
Details
Refer to the Race Website and the 2026 SSTR Runner's Guide for full details on Race Rules and General Race Information. Here are some very important elements of the 2026 SSTR for all runners to understand.
NO CUPS at aid stations. Bring your own vessel/reusable cups/water bottles etc.
NO PETS are allowed in any race event.
NO STROLLERS are allowed in any race event.
Aid stations have a variety of foods; however, we cannot accommodate all dietary restrictions. If you have specific needs, bring what you need.
Although trails will be marked, all runners are expected to have reviewed the course map and directions and latest version of the participant guide and make themselves familiar with these documents. Downloadable GPX files are in the Runner's Guide and on the maps on-site as well.
Race and medical officials have the right to withdraw any runner at any time if deemed necessary (no refund will be issued).
Poles are permitted for use by runners racing distances 50 Miles or longer. Be careful with the use of your poles around other runners.
We appreciate you!
Aid Station
Runners are encouraged to carry a reusable water vessel for use at Aid Stations.
We are a CUP-FREE event, and will only have limited number of compostable cups.
Lemon-lime Skratch Hydration mix will be available at all stations.
Hot soup cups will be available for the night time runners.
Aid station fuel is available from Saturday @ 6am to Sunday @ 12pm and this includes a
range of fluids and foods. As night approaches, hot food/drinks and heartier food will be
available for ultra runners. Aid stations supplies are not guaranteed to be allergen free, it
is your responsibility to have the fuel you need for race weekend success. A list of menu
items will be released ahead of race weekend.
Aid Stations are HOSTED by different groups/clubs each year. These clubs are
compensated to provide you with support. To inquire about HOSTING an Aid Station please email sulphursprings@burlingtonrunners.com 20K Aid Station Locations:
Aid Station #1 – Start / Finish Area
Aid Station #2 – Merrick Parking Lot 4.4K
Aid Station #3 – Hermitage Lot 8.3K
Aid Station #4 (twice) – Martin Road 13K and 19K
10K Aid Station Locations:
Aid Station #1 – Start / Finish Area
Aid Station #2 (twice) – Martin Road 3.5K and 9K
Accomodations
Please consult Greater Hamilton Tourism as well as Burlington Tourism for nearby Hotels, Motels & Camping in the Hamilton, Ancaster and Burlington areas.
There is NO overnight camping allowed at the race site.
Results
Current results will be posted on-site during the event as they become available. Please check at the Enfield Results Tent in the vendor village. Live Race results will be available online at
EnfieldTiming.com.
Also, check EnfieldTiming.com for the results from prior years.
Awards
10K, 20K, 50K, 50M, 100K and Relay Finishers will receive a Sulphur Springs Trail
Race Finisher medal, while 100 Mile Finishers will receive an SSTR belt buckle.
The Top 3 Female, Male & Non-Binary finishers in each distance will win special awards.
First to Third awards for the 100M, 100K, 50M & 50K athletes will be presented to
the winner upon crossing the finish line. No podium presentation for these awards.
ONLY The First Place Relay Team will receive a Team Award.
First to Third Overall awards for 10K and 20K runners will be awarded at 10:30 am on
Sunday. Overall 10K & 20K podium runners are NOT eligible for age group awards.
FIRST in Age group awards for the 10K and 20K Races will be presented at 10:45 am
on Sunday morning. Categories are: Male, Female & Non-Binary, Age Groups: 18-39,
40-54, 55+. **Age group awards ONLY awarded for the 10K and 20K races**.
Sponsors
We’re grateful for the partners who help make this event possible. Their support allows us to focus on what matters most: good trails, good people, and a great day out there.
FAQ
What kind of course should I expect?
This is a true trail race featuring rugged, technical terrain with significant elevation gain. Most race distances are based on a repeating 20K loop through the Dundas Valley Conservation Area, offering a mix of runnable sections and challenging climbs.
Do runners need to follow the marked course exactly?
Yes. All runners must stay on the officially marked trail at all times. If you leave the course for any reason, you must return unassisted to the point where you exited before continuing.
Is outside assistance allowed during the race?
No assistance of any kind is permitted between aid stations. Runners may receive support only within designated aid station areas, and runners are responsible for the behavior of their crew and pacers.
Are pacers allowed?
Pacers are permitted only for 100 Mile solo runners and must follow specific safety and conduct rules. Pacers are there for support and safety but may not carry supplies or provide physical assistance.
What are the rules around music and headphones?
The use of headphones and personal music devices is strongly discouraged to ensure runners remain aware of other trail users, volunteers, wildlife, and safety instructions.
What safety support is available on course?
Professional medical services are provided on site and at aid stations by trained paramedics. Emergency services are aware of the event, but runners should be prepared for delayed access in remote sections of the course.
What lighting is required for running after dark?
Any runner or pacer on course at night must carry a minimum of two light sources with sufficient battery life. If a light fails, runners should wait for assistance rather than attempting to navigate in the dark.
Are aid stations cup-free?
Yes. This is a cup-free event. Runners are expected to carry a reusable cup or bottle. Limited compostable cups may be available, but they are not guaranteed.
What kind of food and hydration are provided at aid stations?
Aid stations offer a variety of fluids and food, including electrolyte drink mix. As the race progresses into night hours, warmer and heartier options may be available. Aid station offerings are not guaranteed to be allergen-free.
Can runners leave gear near the start/finish area?
Select race distances are provided with a designated bag drop area near the start/finish. Bags must be clearly labeled and limited in size. Crew tent areas may also be used for support and rest.
Is the race held on closed trails?
No. The course remains open to other trail users, including hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders. Runners must yield appropriately, especially when encountering horses, and show courtesy at all times.
What are the main risks runners should be aware of?
Trail running carries inherent risks including falls, weather exposure, wildlife encounters, and medical emergencies. Participants are responsible for assessing their readiness and managing challenges independently on course.
Are awards given for all race distances?
Finishers receive race-specific awards, with additional recognition for top overall finishers in select categories. Age-group awards are limited to certain race distances only.
Are race photos available after the event?
Yes. Professional photography is provided, and runners will have access to high-resolution images following the event. Additional photo purchases may be available through the photographer’s gallery.