There’s no denying trail running is making huge strides in North America. A recent study by the US Sports and Fitness Industry Association reported that participation in the sport jumped from 13.2 million in 2022 to 14.8 million in 2023, a one-year increase of over 12 percent. When questioned about why they partake in the sport, many respondents of the survey cited the scenic, traffic-free settings.
Castlegar, British Columbia is one such place that offers incredible environs for trail runners. There are hillside trails with panoramic views of the waterways, gentle tracks that meander through forests of Ponderosa Pine, and river-side runs past colourful bird colonies and other wildlife. Amidst this natural splendour, the Châteaugar Run Club is thriving, fostering a vibrant community of enthusiasts who find equal parts solace and camaraderie on the local trails.
“Trail running in Castlegar offers a unique blend of beauty, challenge, and community,” says Zachary Robert, the co-founder of Châteaugar. Zachary has been running since 2008 when he lived in Ottawa and he continued to trail run when he moved to Castlegar in 2021. “I bought a house near Millennium Park and the supportive atmosphere and the stunning trails were a big part of why I stayed,” he says.
Launched in 2021, the Châteaugar Run Club now boasts over 200 members and is responsible for two annual trail running races including the Doukhobor Water Line Loop, which will be held on May 25th this year, and the Merry Creek Figure 8, which lands on September 14, 2024. “Our races and club are organized as a not-for-profit and run by 100 percent volunteer power. We rely on the Castlegar Parks and Trails Society, local businesses as well as our community as a whole and the support has been incredible.” When asked what the best trail running loops in Castlegar are, Zachary offered up these four suggestions.
Syringa Provincial Park
Known for its sun-soaked trails and stunning views, Syringa Provincial Park offers loops ranging from 4 to to 7.5 kilometres, with paths that remain dry and accessible longer than most, making it perfect for shoulder season runs. It is also great in the summer months because Arrow Lake is right there and you can jump in for a swim after your run.
Mel Deanna Trail
This trail features beautiful vistas over the Columbia River and Kinnaird, two ponds teeming with birds and wildlife, and an excellent five-kilometre loop that tests any runner’s skills. The technical nature of the trail adds an exciting element to the run.
Skattebo Reach to Ward’s Ferry Trail
This is Zachary’s favourite long run in the area. It is a 20-kilometre-long riverside trail that starts in Brilliant, follows through the small communities of Glade and Rover until its terminus at Old Blewett Road. The best part about this run, aside from the views, is it’s steeped in history: there’s the old Doukhobour waterline as well as the John Ward ferry crossing that was used be people travelling to Nelson as part of their pilgrimage north to untold riches during the early 1900s.
Selkirk College Loops
The first Châteaugar Run Club races were held on the trails beside Selkirk College. There are beautiful sections right on the water at the confluence of the Columbia and Kootenay rivers and tons of bird life. Above the trails you’ll find the Doukhobor Museum and the abandoned apple orchards.
For more information about other trail runs in Castlegar as well as the Châteaugar Run Club events, visit its Facebook page here.