Sea 2 Sky Midnight Commuter - 58KM Ultra

The Sea 2 Sky Midnight Commuter 58 Ultra takes participants on an unforgettable 58-kilometer journey along one of the most scenic routes in British Columbia, from Squamish to West Vancouver. The race begins at Maple Dr & Guilford St, Squamish, at midnight, and follows the southbound shoulder of Highway 99, providing breathtaking views of the Pacific coastline and surrounding mountains. Participants will experience a challenging but rewarding race, supported by aid stations and guided by reflective signage throughout the route. Detailed Map and Aid Station Maps will be released soon. We have included some of what you will find at the Aid Stations to keep you fueled + hydrated and safe on your run.

Aid Station Locations

There are four well-equipped aid stations along the course, spaced approximately 10-15 kilometers apart, providing essential hydration, nutrition, and medical support for runners.

• Aid Station 1: Britannia Beach (12-13 km)

  • Water, electrolytes (Blonyx Hydra), energy gels, bars, fruits, and first aid.

• Aid Station 2: Porteau Cove (28-30 km)

  • Water, Blonyx Hydra, FitAid, coconut water, snacks, medical personnel, and rest area.

• Aid Station 3: Lions Bay (43-44 km)

  • Hydration (Blonyx Hydra, FitAid), snacks, medical support, and a rest stop.

• Aid Station 4: Caulfeild Exit (50-52 km)

  • Final aid station before the finish, offering hydration, food, and medical assistance.

Each aid station will have volunteers to assist with check-ins, monitor runner progress, and provide medical attention if needed.

Weather Predictions

The race takes place overnight, and participants should be prepared for varying weather conditions along the Sea-to-Sky corridor. Based on historical weather data, here’s what you can expect:

• Temperature: Nighttime temperatures are expected to range between 5°C and 10°C, with potential colder wind chills in exposed areas near the coast.
• Chance of Rain: April is known for its unpredictable weather, with a 40-50% chance of rain. Participants should bring waterproof jackets and gear in case of rain.
• Wind: Areas near Porteau Cove may experience wind speeds of 10-20 km/h, which could lower the perceived temperature.
• Visibility: While much of the race takes place in the dark, reflective gear and mandatory headlamps will help navigate the route safely.

Sunrise Time

As the race progresses into the early hours of the morning, sunrise will occur at approximately 6:00 AM on April 27, 2025. Depending on your pace, you may experience the final portion of the race as dawn breaks, providing a stunning view of the sunrise over West Vancouver.

Course Surface

The route primarily follows the paved shoulder of Highway 99, providing a smooth, hard surface for running. While the course is on the highway shoulder, participants will need to be cautious of any debris or uneven surfaces. The sections near Horseshoe Bay and Lions Bay include some narrow shoulder areas, requiring extra vigilance.

• Surface Type: Paved highway shoulder.
• Elevation: The course features gradual elevation changes typical of the Sea-to-Sky Highway, with some challenging climbs and descents.

Pacer Information:

• Role of a Pacer: Pacers help athletes maintain their pace, stay motivated, and ensure safety throughout the race.
• Pacer Registration: All pacers must be registered before the race. Registration closes one month before the event. Pacers will be issued a bib to wear during the event.
• Where Pacers Can Join: Pacers can join their athlete at any of the four designated aid stations along the course:
  1. Britannia Beach (12-13 km)
  2. Porteau Cove (28-30 km)
  3. Lions Bay (43-44 km)
  4. Caulfeild Exit (50-52 km)
• Pacing Rules:
  • Only one pacer is allowed with an athlete at a time.
  • Pacers cannot carry any gear, food, or drink for the athlete.
  • Pacers must wear reflective gear, a headlamp, and a rear-facing red light.
  • Pacing is optional, but pacers are encouraged to assist runners during the final portions of the race.

Support Team Information:

• Support Team Guidelines: Support teams are allowed to assist athletes at the four aid stations. However, no support vehicles are allowed to follow runners along the course.
• Where Support Teams Can Stop: Support teams can meet their athletes only at designated aid stations. They should not stop along the highway or interfere with traffic.
• What Support Teams Can Do: Teams can provide extra nutrition, gear, and encouragement at aid stations. Athletes must carry their own gear between stations.
• Important Restrictions: No vehicles will be allowed to park or stop along the highway shoulder except at the designated areas near aid stations.

To ensure the safety and well-being of all participants, the following gear is mandatory for all runners during the Sea 2 Sky Midnight Commuter 58 Ultra. All participants will be checked at Check-in to confirm they have the required gear.

1. Reflective Clothing

• Requirement: All runners must wear reflective gear to ensure visibility on the highway during nighttime hours. This includes reflective vests, jackets, or other clothing designed for high visibility in low-light conditions.

2. Headlamp (Front-Facing White Light)

• Requirement: A bright headlamp or chest light with a minimum output of 200 lumens is required to illuminate the road ahead.
• Recommendation: Bring extra batteries or a backup headlamp.

3. Rear-Facing Red Light

• Requirement: A rear-facing red light is mandatory to alert vehicles and fellow runners behind you. The light should be worn on the back of your vest or pack.

4. Weather-Appropriate Clothing

• Requirement: Prepare for cold temperatures (5°C - 10°C) and possible rain. Wear layers and bring a waterproof jacket to stay warm and dry throughout the race.
• Recommendation: Gloves, a hat, or a buff for added warmth, especially during the early hours of the race.

5. Hydration System

• Requirement: A hydration pack or water bottles capable of carrying a minimum of 500 Milliliters of fluid. Aid stations are spaced 10-15 km apart, so you must carry enough water between stations.
• Recommendation: Electrolyte drinks to prevent dehydration.

6. Nutrition

• Requirement: Although aid stations will provide snacks, each runner must carry enough energy gels, bars, or other portable nutrition to sustain themselves between aid stations.

7. Emergency Whistle

• Recommendation: A whistle to signal for help in case of an emergency.

8. Space Blanket (Emergency Blanket)

• Recommendation: Carry a lightweight space blanket to use in case of injury, fatigue, or extreme weather conditions.

9. Fully Charged Phone

• Requirement: A fully charged mobile phone with emergency contacts and the event organizer’s phone number saved. It will be used for emergency communication during the race.

10. Race Bib and Timing Chip

• Requirement: Your race bib, which must be visible at all times, and the provided timing chip to track your progress.

These items are essential to ensure your safety and success during the Sea 2 Sky Midnight Commuter 58 Ultra. Failure to comply with the mandatory gear check will result in disqualification from the race.

After completing the Sea 2 Sky Midnight Commuter 58 Ultra, we’ve arranged shuttle services to transport athletes safely back to Squamish.

Shuttle Details:

• Shuttle Type: Buses and vans will be available to transport athletes from the finish line in West Vancouver to Squamish.
• Departure Times: Shuttles will depart intermittently from 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM to accommodate athletes finishing at different times.
• Location: The pick-up point for the shuttles will be near the finish line - Volunteers will guide you to the shuttle area after you’ve completed the race, recovered and are ready to go back to Squamish.
• Cost: Shuttle service is free for all registered participants.
• Reservation: Please indicate during registration if you’ll require transportation back to Squamish, so we can plan accordingly.

Personal Belongings:

• Start Line Items: Your bags and personal belongings will be transported from the start line to the finish area. You can collect your items once you've finished the race and recovered.
• Aid Station Items: Any items left at the aid stations will be transported to the finish area by the end of the race. A designated pick-up location will be indicated at the finish line on race day.

After crossing the finish line in West Vancouver, participants will have access to a range of post-race recovery options and amenities to help them unwind and recover from the challenge.

Hot Breakfast:

Mereon French Bistro will be serving a freshly cooked hot breakfast for athletes to enjoy post-race. Meal tickets can be purchased during sign-on at the start line, and the breakfast will be available at the finish area to help replenish your energy.

Recovery Zone:

We’ve set up a dedicated recovery zone at the finish area to support your post-race recovery. Available services include:

• Hot and Cold Plunges: Aid muscle recovery and reduce soreness with contrast therapy.
• Air Compression Therapy: Designed to improve circulation and speed up recovery.
• Massage Therapy: Trained therapists will be on hand to provide massages for tired muscles.
• Saunas: Relax and soothe your body after the race.

Finish Area Amenities:

• Toilets: Clean and accessible toilets will be available at the finish area.
• Hot Showers: Athletes will have access to hot showers to freshen up after the race.

This comprehensive post-race setup ensures that all participants can enjoy a smooth and comfortable recovery process, with plenty of amenities to help them unwind after a tough challenge.

1. Why is this event more expensive than other races?

The entry fees for the Sea 2 Sky Midnight Commuter 58 Ultra reflect the unique logistics and safety measures required for hosting a nighttime race on the Sea-to-Sky Highway. Factors include:

• Traffic Management: We’ll have significant road traffic management, particularly in high-risk zones, to ensure participant safety.
• Extended Duration: The course spans up to 58 kilometers, and some athletes may take up to 10 hours or more to complete, meaning safety measures, aid stations, and support must be available for an extended period.
• Post-Race Recovery: After the race, athletes have access to a hot breakfast + beverage + coffee. Other options will be available for purchase though.
• Shuttle Service: Part of the cost goes to the shuttle services to ensure if needed, you can get back to the start line - We don't think you'll want to run back.

2. Will the highway be closed for the race?

The highway will not be fully closed, but partial traffic management will be in place at critical on-ramps and high-risk areas like the Horseshoe Bay and 15th/21st Street on-ramps. We are working closely with local authorities to manage these crossings safely, with potential police support to stop traffic intermittently as runners cross.

3. How do I get back to my car after the race?

We’ll have shuttle services available to transport athletes back to Squamish from the finish line in West Vancouver. Shuttles will run intermittently from 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM. When registering, please indicate if you will need shuttle transportation, and we will transport your belongings from the start to the finish area.

4. What if I leave gear at an aid station?

Any items left at aid stations will be brought to the finish area by the end of the race. A designated pick-up spot will be clearly indicated at the finish line on race day.

5. What kind of gear is mandatory for this event?

For safety, participants are required to wear:

• Reflective clothing
• Headlamps (minimum 200 lumens) and a rear-facing red light
• Hydration pack or bottles
• Weather-appropriate clothing, as temperatures may drop overnight
• Emergency whistle and space blanket

6. What kind of support is available at aid stations?

There are four aid stations along the route, spaced approximately every 10-15 kilometers. They offer:

• Water, Blonyx Hydra electrolytes, snacks (energy bars, gels, fruits)
• Medical support
• Volunteers to track runner progress and provide assistance

7. Can I have a pacer?

Yes! Pacers can join at designated aid stations after 12 kilometers. They must wear reflective gear and carry their own hydration and nutrition. Only one pacer is allowed at a time.

8. What happens if I need medical assistance during the race?

Medical personnel will be stationed at every aid station and ready to provide first aid. In case of emergencies, volunteers and staff will be able to notify emergency services. Each runner will carry a fully charged phone for emergencies.

Planning your stay and travel for the Sea 2 Sky Midnight Commuter 58 Ultra? We’ve got you covered with a variety of accommodation and transportation options to ensure your race experience is smooth.

1. Accommodations in Squamish (Start Area)

We recommend staying in Squamish for easy access to the starting line on race day. The start line will be near Maple Dr + Guilford St. Final details will be confirmed closer to race day.

• Hotel Options:

  • Sandman Hotel & Suites Squamish
  • Executive Suites Hotel & Resort
  • Howe Sound Inn

• Vacation Rentals:

  • Explore options through Airbnb or Vrbo for more flexibility and group accommodations.

2. Accommodations in West Vancouver (Finish Area)

For those looking to stay close to the finish line, West Vancouver offers a variety of hotels and vacation rentals. After the race, you can relax without the need to travel far.

• The Sylvia Hotel
• The Westin Bayshore
• Local Airbnb & Vrbo Rentals

3. Shuttle Service (Finish to Start)

We will provide shuttle services to transport athletes from the finish line in West Vancouver back to Squamish. Shuttle services will run intermittently from 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM to accommodate finishers.

• Cost: Shuttle service is free for all registered participants.
• Pick-Up Point: The shuttle pick-up point will be near the finish line (specific location will be provided closer to race day).

4. Parking Information

• Squamish (Start Area): Parking will be available near the start line as street parking is free and overnight parking is allowed. If you plan to drive, you can leave your car in Squamish and take the shuttle back after the race.
• West Vancouver (Finish Area): Limited parking will be available near the finish area. You may need to have your car parked a couple blocks away to avoid getting a ticket or being towed. We recommend using the shuttle service to return to Squamish if you don’t have a support team to assist you.

5. Travel to Squamish and West Vancouver

• By Car: Squamish is approximately 45 minutes - 1 hour from Vancouver along Highway 99 (Sea-to-Sky Highway). Ensure you leave ample time for pre-race preparations.
• By Bus: Regular bus services run between Vancouver and Squamish. Check BC Transit for schedules.
• By Ferry: If traveling from Vancouver Island, take a ferry to Horseshoe Bay, and then drive or bus to Squamish.