Welcome to Albion Ascent! This transit-friendly, chip-timed urban trail race takes you on a wild mix of paved paths, dirt trails, and rugged technical sections—showcasing some of Hamilton’s best-kept secrets. Think rivers, waterfalls, forests, and breathtaking fall colors. And the best part? You’re never far from a post-race burger to celebrate your run!
The 5K and 10K routes are beginner-friendly—rolling hills with just enough challenge to keep it interesting. The 10K and 21K step it up, leading runners onto the Bruce Trail and past stunning waterfalls, including the breathtaking Felker’s Falls and Devil’s Punch Bowl. The 21K is technical and best suited for seasoned trail runners, but new runners are always welcome—just take it slow and enjoy the ride! No matter which distance you choose, you’ll get to experience the spectacular King’s Forest and the scenic Red Hill Creek.
Take Albion - Climb Challenge
No matter which distance you tackle, you’ll face the climb—a timed section that will test your grit and determination. This challenging ascent is the same for all three distances, giving every runner a chance to claim the fastest climb. Push hard, dig deep, and see how you stack up against the competition. Will you dethrone the King of the Forest and Take Albion?
Registration fees
Prices are inclusive of mandatory charges, items, and fees
5km
Price changes in 7 days 9 hours-
All concrete paths and dirt trails through King's Forest, plus a little foot bridge river crossing and some Albion hill climbs! This non-technical route is excellent for those looking to avoid gnarly single track, and it's a great intro to trail running for beginners!
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Register for 5km$53.09Now registering Mar 19 – Jun 7
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$58.47Jun 8 – Sept 27
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10k
Price changes in 6 days 9 hours-
Start in King’s Forest, tackle the steep Albion climb, and hit the mighty Bruce Trail for a taste of rugged singletrack. Along the way, you’ll pass two stunning waterfalls and the Red Hill Valley Creek—twice! It's all worth it for the views!
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Register for 10k$63.85Now registering Mar 19 – Jun 6
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$73.54Jun 7 – Sept 27
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21km
Price changes in 8 days 9 hours-
Dare we say it? This might just be the most breathtaking race route in all of Hamilton! Start with a smooth warm-up on the paved paths of King’s Forest, then tackle the relentless Albion climb before hitting the rugged, technical Bruce Trail for the majority of the race. This out-and-back course takes you past the jaw-dropping Felker's Falls and the epic Devil's Punch Bowl—not once, but twice. Trust us, it’s a route worth seeing again!
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Register for 21km$92.92Now registering Mar 19 – Jun 8
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$103.69Jun 9 – Sept 27
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Kids Take the Bridge Race
Price changes in 7 days 9 hours-
A relatively flat out-and-back, across the bridge and along the Red Hill Valley Trail.
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Register for Kids Take the Bridge Race$22.95Now registering Mar 19 – Jun 7
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$22.95Jun 8 – Sept 27
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Course Maps
5km Route Easy terrain
10km Route Easy Terrain
21km Route Difficult Terrain
Rules & Details
Rules & Event Details
1. Bring your own cup or water bottle, we will supply hydration but no cups.
2. Leave no trace! Zero tolerance for litter on the trails.
3. Thank the volunteers, they’re out there to help make this awesome for you!
4. Look up and take in the stunning views and picturesque Hamilton trails!
Start times:
9:00am 21km Starts
9:15am 10km Starts
9:30am 5km Starts
1:30pm Cut-off for all distances
Swag: Each runner will receive a swag bag and all finishers will receive a custom wooden Albion Ascent coaster.
Aid Stations: Xact energy bars, water, electrolyte beverage and surprise snacks will be available at aid stations along the course. Bring your own reusable cup or water bottle.
Albion Ascent Refund & Transfer Policy:
We get it—plans change. That’s why we offer a 100% deferral if you need to cancel at least 30 days before race day. You can defer your entry to the following year’s Albion Ascent, no problem.
Unfortunately, we can’t offer deferrals within 30 days of the race, as everything is already ordered by then. However, you can transfer your bib to another runner for free up to 4 days before the race—just let us know!
Location & Parking
There's ample parking at Greenhill Bowl Park and Rosedale Park, but there's also the option to take public transit, getting off at the Greenhill/Cochrane bus stop and walking down the hill to the start line.
Race Kit Pickup
Runner's Den: Friday, September 26th 4pm to 6pm
Runner's Den: Saturday, September 27th 10:30am to 2pm
Race Day On-site: Sunday, September 28th 7am to 9am
Onsite registration is available but we unfortunately will only accept cash on race day.
With sustainability in mind, we have opted to not provide medals. Or cups, no cups! But we are providing you with some nice swag.
Contact information
- Event contact
- Stephanie Jetté
- Phone
- 289-808-2899
