Top 10 Thrilling Bike and Running Races in Whistler: Heart-Pounding Adventures
There’s nothing like the electric energy of a group sporting event—racing side-by-side with competitors, hearts pounding, and adrenaline surging as you push your mind and body to the limit. Whistler’s in-person running and biking events returned in fall 2021 after a virtual year.
Here are 10 unmissable events, complete with tips to elevate your race day experience.
The Back Forty Marathon XC Mountain Bike Race
September 11, 2021
Inspired by Pemberton’s leg-shaking NIMBY Fifty, The Back Forty is a demanding cross-country grind from Function Junction south to Cougar Mountain. The inaugural three-stage course spans 29.4 kilometres (18.2 miles) of singletrack with a grueling 1,800 metres (5,900 feet) of ascent—and rewarding descents. Supporting the Whistler Off-Road Cycling Association (WORCA), WORCA membership is required for registration.
INSIDER TIP: Join the official après at RideWrap in Function Junction, then grab a post-race pint at Whistler Brewing Company or Coast Mountain Brewing.
Whistler X Triathlon
September 12, 2021
This off-road triathlon at Lost Lake Park features a 750-metre (0.5-mile) swim, 11.6 kilometres (7.2 miles) of beginner/intermediate bike trails, and 5.2 kilometres (3.2 miles) of running. Sport categories include Age Group World Championship qualifiers for the 2022 ITU World Cross Triathlon Championships in Townsville, Australia. No parking at Lost Lake on race day—bike or walk the Valley Trail from Whistler Village.
INSIDER TIP: Recover at nearby Scandinave Spa with a relaxing soak for sore muscles.
West Side Wheel Up Mountain Bike Race
September 18, 2021
The 29th annual West Side Wheel Up—Whistler’s coolest mountain bike race—starts and finishes at Rainbow Park. This WORCA cross-country event covers 14.7 kilometres (9 miles) of iconic XC trails with dessert-themed names like Whipped Cream and Green Jello, plus 420 metres (1,378 feet) of climbing.
INSIDER TIP: After the Rainbow Park after-party, refuel with casual bites and drinks at Stonesedge Kitchen in Whistler Village.
Rotary Brandywine Boogie Trail Run
September 18, 2021
Discover the Sea to Sky Trail’s natural beauty in this 9-kilometre (5.6-mile) point-to-point run from Cheakamus to Cal Cheak Campground along an undulating gravel path through lush forest. All finishers enter an impressive prize draw.
INSIDER TIP: Stop at Creekside Village en route to Function Junction for treats at Confetti Gelato or BReD.
Whistler Alpine Meadows Trail Running Races
September 24-26, 2021
Whistler Alpine Meadows (WAM) Trail Running Series offers panoramic alpine vistas and epic challenges over three days. Six races cross bridges, meadows, waterfalls, wildflowers, tarns, and lakes, including Blackcomb Ascent, 25 km (15.5 miles), 50 km (31 miles), 90 km (60 miles), plus Triple WAMMY challenges. Kids aged 3-10 have their own race. $5 per entry supports local trail organizations.
INSIDER TIP: Indulge in post-run recovery at The Spa at Four Seasons with a sports massage or Canadian Maple Syrup and Brown Sugar Scrub.
Comfortably Numb Trail Race
October 2, 2021
Run the iconic 25-kilometre (15.5-mile) Comfortably Numb mountain bike trail on foot—from Wedgemount pit parking to Spruce Grove Park over technical terrain with stunning views. Shuttles from Spruce Grove ($5) start at 5:30 AM.
INSIDER TIP: Replenish calories with comfort food at Hunter Gather or Ohyama Ramen in Whistler Village.
Whistler Half Marathon
October 9-10, 2021
A bucket-list event with stunning scenery and varied terrain, the Whistler Half Marathon expanded from a single race in 2010. The signature Half and 30 km (18.6 miles) sold out for 2021—cheer them on or join the 5 km (3.6 miles) or 10 km (6.2 miles) on Sunday.
INSIDER TIP: Unwind at The Spa at Nita Lake Lodge with a Kundalini Massage featuring essential oils, chakra, sound healing, and ancient techniques.
The Whistler Turkey Trot
October 11, 2021
Work off Thanksgiving feasts in this family-friendly 5 km (3.6 miles) or 10 km (6.2 miles) trail run at Lost Lake, supporting Crohn’s and Colitis Canada. Expect a celebratory vibe.
INSIDER TIP: Enjoy Thanksgiving weekend extras: early season gear sales, fall ATV/zipline tours, and Village entertainment.
Canadian National Enduro Series
October 15-17, 2021
Whistler hosts this flagship Canadian enduro series, North America’s premier event. Expect 2,000+ metres (6,500 feet) climbing and 3,500 metres (11,400 feet) descending over ~45 km (28 miles) of XC track.
INSIDER TIP: Celebrate at Fitzsimmons Pub in Upper Village—Whistler’s coziest spot for craft beer, Caesars, bourbon, and whiskey.
Whistler 50 Relay and Ultra
October 16, 2021
Run for fun, community, or personal challenge at this Food Banks fundraiser. Relay teams of 4 or 8 tackle 10-50 km (6.2-31 miles). Options for beginners to ultra-marathoners.
INSIDER TIP: Brunch the next day at Crêpe Montagne, Wildflower Restaurant at Fairmont Chateau Whistler, or Southside Diner for sweet and savory delights.
Find more events at Whistler.com/events. Fall stays offer value from $129/night, plus a free $100 Dining Voucher for 3+ nights via Whistler.com.
