This race will be very unique experience for many of the runners who participate. If you are new to trail running or an experienced adventure racer the powderface42 Half Marathon/Marathon will be a very demanding test for all participants. The entire race course is on single track trails in the West Bragg Creek area and traverses the ridges and valleys along the Elbow River with significant elevations changes. These trails are well established and easily followed. The course will be well marked and all major intersections well defined. You can expect varying trail conditions from smooth pine needle covered single track to rocky terrain where you will have to pay attention. In addition, there are several creek crossings where you will get wet feet.

Please note this is not a typical marathon with aid stations every couple of kilometers. Runners will be traversing through wilderness and can expect to run 6-12km before the next aid station. If you feel you need to carry food and water it will be your responsibility. Please be prepared, it is for your own safety.

It is possible you will encounter wildlife while on the race course. If you come in contact with a bear please remain calm and remember the basic rules in a bear encounter. If you are unfamiliar with what to do if you encounter a bear please visit the following website . A copy of this web page will be included in your race package. Please read it for your own safety. Notify a race official as soon as possible.

Climate & Altitude

The typical weather for race time is warm and dry where mid day temperatures rise to the mid twenties and can reach the low thirties occasionally. Runners have to be prepared for all kinds of mountain weather from thunder showers to snow at higher elevations. The race will start and finish at an elevation of 1400 meters and rise to its highest point at just over 2000 meters. The weather can change significantly in 600 meters.

Aid Stations

There will be 5 aid stations in the marathon and 3 in the half marathon. Each aid station will contain water, energy drink/food and various fruit. Toilets will be available at aid station 2 in the half Marathon and at aid stations 2 & 4 in the marathon. The aid stations will be located at the following distances:

Half Marathon:

4.1 km – Moose Mountain road crossing
9.8 km – Powderface Parking Lot turnaround
16.1 km – Moose Mountain road crossing

Marathon:

4.1 km – Moose Mountain road crossing
9.8 km – Powderface Parking Lot
23.5 km – 2nd road crossing Powderface trail
32.5 km – Powderface parking lot
37.1 km – Moose Mountain road crossing

For all Marathon runners there will be an option to have a personalized package taken out to aid station numbers 2 and 4. Before the start of the race deposit a bag with your name and race number clearly marked at the registration table and it will be waiting for you. This package should contain any items you feel you may need at that point in the race such as extra food, clothing, moleskin etc.

First Aid

There will be qualified medical people on site to provide any necessary first aid. In the event of an injury requiring evacuation or of a more serious nature the Kananaskis Parks will be available to provide assistance.