A new high-alpine challenge is set for Valemount, British Columbia, as the inaugural Alpenglow 100 trail race will take place from July 4 to 6. Organized by Coast Mountain Trail Running, the race features three distance options—35K, 60K, and 100K—offering participants a demanding course through alpine singletrack with substantial elevation gains.
Valemount, at the confluence of the Rockies, Cariboos, and Monashees, will make for a stunning race landscape. The course reaches an elevation of 2,400 metres, allowing runners to take in breathtaking mountain vistas alongside a serious physical test. The town is 20 minutes from Mt. Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, making it an attractive destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Race director Gary Robbins emphasizes the allure of the region, describing the views from the course as unparalleled in the Canadian Rockies. He noted that the area has long been a hidden gem for adventurers and that the race provides a unique opportunity for runners to immerse themselves in the landscape.
“Looking for the perfect excuse to finally take that dream family vacation to the Canadian Rockies, look no further than the Alpenglow 100 in Valemount, BC,” Robbins says. “A small community of outdoor enthusiasts have built a relative mecca for outdoor adventures, and even the most seasoned mountain travellers will be taken aback by all this area has to offer. Family friendly hikes to epic scenery abound, including Kinney Lake at the foot of Mt. Robson, which is but a 20 min drive away. If you’ve never stared up at the dramatic south face of this almost 13,000ft behemoth, then quite frankly you’ve not seen all that the Canadian Rockies has to offer.”
Beyond the race itself, the event will bring an influx of visitors to Valemount, where the local community is preparing to welcome participants. The weekend will include post-race festivities with live music and food, adding to the appeal of the event. Organizers hope that racers and spectators alike will take advantage of the many recreational opportunities available in the region, from hiking and biking to paddling.
Registration for the race opens on Feb. 14, and spots are likely to fill quickly. Organizers are seeking volunteers, with sign-ups beginning in March.
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