Countdown to event
Horseshoe Valley Hustle
8-Hour Enduro Challenge, Team Relay & Halloween Trail Race 🎃
Join us at Horseshoe Valley Resort this Halloween for a day of trail running, costumes, endurance, and fun. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly event, your next trail race, or an epic team challenge, there's a distance for everyone.
Choose Your Challenge
🎃 Spooky Small Steps 1KM Halloween Dash! (Family Friendly, Non-Trail)
Our Halloween-themed 1KM run/walk is the perfect way to get the whole family involved. Come dressed in your favourite costume and enjoy a fun, themed event in support of a great cause! Participants of all ages are welcome in this event.
NOTE: A minimum donation of $10 towards the Child & Youth Advocacy Centre Simcoe Muskoka (CYACSM) is required for participation in the 1KM event.
Parents are welcome to accompany their children participating in the Small Steps 1KM event. Parents do not need to register for the 1K to accompany their child. Parents wishing to complete the 1K as well as another event such as the 5KM or 10KM run will have time to do both.
🥾 5KM Trail Run/Walk
A scenic introduction to trail running with rolling terrain and beautiful fall colours.
🏔️ 10KM Trail Run/Walk
Take on two laps of our challenging trail course and experience everything Horseshoe Valley has to offer.
🔥 8-Hour Endurance Challenge and TEAM Relay Event (Solo or Team Relay)
Ready for something bigger? Our signature event is an 8-hour endurance challenge where runners complete as many 5KM laps as possible before time runs out.
Go solo and test your endurance, or grab your crew and make a day of it in our Team Relay. Teams of 2, 4, or 8 runners take turns tackling the course, cheering each other on between laps, and working together to rack up as many kilometres as possible. It's competitive, social, and one of the most exciting ways to experience race day. Whether you're chasing the podium or just looking for an unforgettable day with friends, the relay is all about strategy, teamwork, and having fun on the trails.
Stay Onsite and Make it a Race Weekend
Make race weekend even easier by staying right at Horseshoe Valley Resort. Relax before the start line, recover after your race, and enjoy everything the resort has to offer without the drive home.
Horseshoe Valley Hustle participants receive:
– 20% off accommodations
– Reduced 9% Resort Fee
– No minimum stay required
Use promo code HUSTLE when booking, or click the button below to access the discounted rate.
BOOK YOUR STAY
Run for a Great Cause
The Horseshoe Valley Hustle isn't just about crossing the finish line, it's about having community impact and supporting youth in our region. This year's event is proud to support the Child & Youth Advocacy Centre Simcoe Muskoka (CYACSM), helping provide compassionate, trauma-informed care for children, youth and families when they need it most.
$10 from every Small Steps Kids 1KM Halloween Dash registration will be donated directly to CYACSM, helping provide critical services for children and youth in our community. We also encourage all participants to create a personalized fundraising page and invite friends, family and coworkers to support the cause!
Race Information
Race Location:
The race will start and finish at Horseshoe Valley Resort located at:
1101 Horseshoe Valley Rd W
Barrie, ON
L4M 4Y8.
All race distances will take place throughout the resort property, with the start/finish area located in the main resort area. Participants and spectators will have access to onsite amenities, food and beverage options, washrooms, and plenty of space to relax before and after the race.
Race Day Atmosphere 🎃
Costumes are encouraged for runners, teams, and spectators! Show off your Halloween spirit and help us create a fun and festive atmosphere throughout the day. Costumes should be safe to run in and should not interfere with other participants.
We will also be awarding prizes for Best Costume, so get creative!
Parking:
There is plenty of free parking available onsite at Horseshoe Valley Resort. Parking is located close to the race start area, but we recommend arriving early to allow time to park, walk to registration, and prepare for your race.
Suggested Arrival Time:
To have the best possible race day experience, please arrive early and give yourself enough time for parking, bib pickup, using the washrooms, warming up, and attending the athlete briefing.
We recommend arriving between 7:45AM - 8:30AM.
Race day schedule:
- 8:45AM - Pre-Race Announcements & Athlete Briefing
- 9:00AM - Small Steps 1KM Run/Walk Start
- 9:30AM - 5KM & 10KM Start
- 9:30AM - 8-Hour Endurance Challenge Start
Bib Pickup and Registration:
All participants must pick up their bib prior to starting their race. Bibs must be pinned to the front of your shirt and visible throughout the event.
Race day bib pickup will be available; however, we strongly encourage participants to pick up their race kit ahead of time at one of our scheduled race kit pickups.
Someone else may pick up your bib on your behalf. They will simply need to provide your first and last name.
Race kit pickup dates and times coming soon!
8-Hour Endurance Challenge & Team Relay
The 8-hour endurance challenge and relay race is designed for runners who want to push their limits and see how far they can go in eight hours.
Participants will complete as many laps as possible on our challenging 5KM loop course featuring technical singletrack, rolling terrain, and plenty of elevation gain.
You can take on the challenge as:
- Solo Runner
- Duo Team
- Team of 4
- Team of 8
How the Relay Works
Gather your crew, create your strategy, and see how many kilometres your team can complete together!
Relay teams will take turns completing laps of the course, with one team member running at a time while teammates cheer, recover, and prepare for their next lap. Teams can decide their own strategy, whether that means rotating every lap, running multiple laps to give other teammates a longer break, or creating a plan to maximize distance.
Runners doing the 8-hour challenge as a relay event will have a TEAM BIB/TIMING CHIP to pass between teammates during the relay exchange. Each individual on the team will have an identification bib with their individual details, but the chipped bib must be passed to the other teammate during relay exchanges. The chipped bib will stay with the active runner on course at all times. Here's how it will work:
- Only the runner carrying the team timing bib is counted as completing laps
- When a runner finishes a lap, they enter the relay exchange zone and hand the timing bib to their next teammate
- The next runner starts their lap with the timing bib attached
- Team members can decide their own strategy (rotate every lap, complete multiple laps, etc.)
The relay is the perfect mix of endurance, teamwork, and fun. Whether your goal is to compete, complete as many laps as possible, or simply spend an unforgettable day on the trails with friends, this event is built for everyone.
Aid Station
There will be one aid station located at the 2.5KM mark on the course. All runners will pass this station oncer per 5KM loop.
Aid station offerings will include water, hydration, and additional race-day fuel options. Full details on what will be available will be announced soon.
Participants are encouraged to bring their own preferred nutrition and hydration supplies, especially for longer efforts.
Course Description
The Horseshoe Valley Hustle course features a mix of technical singletrack, rolling terrain, and significant elevation gain throughout the route. Runners can expect a challenging but rewarding course that showcases the natural beauty of Horseshoe Valley Resort.
Whether you are racing the 5KM, 10KM, or taking on the 8-Hour Endurance Challenge, come prepared for a course that will test your legs. Those completing the 8-hour challenge should be well trained and suited for taking on this effort.
Recommended Gear
Trail shoes are strongly recommended for all distances.
For the 8-Hour Endurance Challenge, we highly encourage participants to bring:
- Hydration vest or personal hydration system
- Trail running shoes with good traction
- Weather-appropriate layers
- Personal nutrition and fuel options
- Extra clothing for changing fall conditions
October weather at Horseshoe Valley Resort can change quickly, so come prepared for a variety of trail conditions.
Spectators
Spectators are welcome and encouraged!
The start/finish area provides a great place for friends and family to cheer on participants throughout the day. Watch runners complete their laps, support your team, enjoy the resort amenities, and be part of the race-day atmosphere.
Awards
Awards will be presented following each event.
Awards include:
- Overall Male & Female winners for the 1KM, 5KM, and 10KM events
- Overall winning teams for each 8-Hour Endurance Challenge relay format
- Best Costume Award
Additional details will be announced closer to race day.
Race schedule - Saturday, October 31st, 2026:
7:30AM - Registration & Package Pickup Opens
8:45AM - Pre-Race Announcements and Athlete Briefing
9:00AM - Small Steps 1KM Run/Walk Start
9:30AM - 5KM & 10KM Start
9:30AM - 8-Hour Endurance Challenge Start
10:15AM - 5KM Race Awards
10:45AM - 10KM Race Awards
5:30PM - 8-Hour Endurance Challenge Ends
5:45PM - Awards Ceremony - 8-Hour Endurance Challenge
Course Cutoffs:
There are no cutoff times for the Small Steps 1KM, 5KM, or 10KM events.
The 8-Hour Endurance Challenge will run for a strict eight-hour time limit, ending at 5:30PM.
All runners must be off the course by this time. Participants may begin their final lap until 5:00PM. Any laps started after this time will not count toward final results.
Race Route Details
The race route is a 5KM looped course. Participants completing distances longer than 5KM will complete multiple loops of the 5KM course.
Terrain and conditions: This course features rugged, narrow single-track trails that wind through dense forest, with frequent elevation changes, steep climbs, and technical terrain. Expect loose rocks, roots, and uneven footing throughout. For your safety and performance, proper trail running footwear is highly recommended.
Aid Stations: There will be one aid station located at the 2.5KM mark on the course. All runners will pass this station once per loop.
1. Do I have to run to participate in the event?
No! Both runners and walkers are welcome to participate in the event. If you plan on walking the entire distance, we recommend choosing the 5KM option. It is strongly recommended that those completing the 8-hour challenge have experience with running and are well trained and prepared to take on this challenge.
2. Are strollers and dogs allowed?
Due to the nature of the trails, strollers and dogs are not permitted in the 5KM or 10KM events, but they are welcome to spectate! Dogs and Stollers will be permitted to take part in the Small Steps 1KM event.
3. What is a "trail race"
A trail race takes place on unpaved hiking trails through natural terrain. Expect hills, roots, rocks, uneven surfaces, and sections of narrower trail.
Trail conditions can vary depending on weather, and proper trail footwear is strongly recommended.
4. Is the race timed?
Yes! All race distances will be professionally chip timed.
Your time will be recorded using the timing chip located on your race bib. Your official chip time will begin when you cross the start line and stop when you cross the finish line.
If you are competing for an overall podium position, standings will be based on gun time. All other results will be based on chip time.
Your race bib must be pinned to the front of your shirt and visible at all times during the event.
5. Can I run with headphones?
We recommend that you do not run with headphones so you can remain aware of your surroundings, other participants, and trail conditions.
If you choose to run with headphones, please keep one ear free at all times.
6. Will there be water and fuel on the course?
Yes, we will have an aid station available at the 2.5KM mark along the route.
Additional details on aid station offerings will be announced soon.
Participants taking on longer distances are encouraged to bring their own preferred nutrition and hydration supplies, including a hydration vest or personal hydration system.
7. Will the race happen if it rains?
Yes! The race will take place rain or shine.
The event will only be cancelled in the case of extreme weather conditions that create unsafe conditions, such as severe thunderstorms. If there is a cancellation all runners will be notified. There will be no refunds due to cancellations from weather.
8. What is trail etiquette?
Trail etiquette helps keep the event safe and enjoyable for everyone.
- Stay to the right side of the trail whenever possible to allow other runners to pass.
- Be aware that some sections may have runners travelling in both directions.
- Do not litter on the trails. Please help us keep Horseshoe Valley’s trails clean.
- Encourage your fellow participants and have fun!
9. Is the Small Steps 1KM event for kids only? Can I accompany my child?
The Small Steps 1KM event is open to participants of all ages, not just children.
If your child is participating and you would like to accompany them, you are welcome to do so and do not need to register separately.
Costumes are encouraged for this fun Halloween-themed event!
10. Are refunds available if I cannot attend?
All registrations are final. We do not offer refunds for registrations once they have been completed.
Please review your registration details carefully before completing your purchase.
11. Can I transfer my registration to someone else?
Registration transfers are available up until Thursday, October 29th. If you need to transfer your registration to another runner, please email jessicab@horseshoeresort.com
Sponsors and Partners
Thank you to all of our Sponsors and Partners
 |  |
|
Interested in supporting this event? Please contact jessicab@horseshoeresort.com
Volunteer
These races would not be possible without our volunteers. If you or someone you know is interested in supporting the event as a volunteer you can register here. High school students and those collecting community volunteer hours will receive 1.5 hours for every hour they volunteer!
Registration fees
Where pricing applies, shown amounts include mandatory charges, items, and fees.
Spooky Small Steps 1KM Halloween Dash
Take part in the Spooky Small Steps 1KM Halloween Dash! This is a fun welcoming event designed for kids, families, and first-time participants of all ages. This non-technical route takes place in the resort area, not on the trails, making it a safe and exciting way to be part of race day without the pressure of distance or terrain. A minimum donation of $10 towards the Child & Youth Advocacy Centre Simcoe Muskoka (CYACSM) is required for participation in this event.
-
Register for Spooky Small Steps 1KM Halloween DashCA$19.16
A minimum donation of $10 towards the CYACSM is required for participation in this event.
May 1 - Oct 30
5KM Trail Race
Price changes in 19 days 55 minutes-
Take on the challenge of the Horseshoe Valley Hustle 5K solo, where steep climbs, fast descents, and rugged trails push your endurance through the demanding terrain of Horseshoe Valley Resort.
-
Register for 5KM Trail RaceCA$64.27
Early bird pricing
Now registering May 1 – Aug 30 -
CA$75.54
Late pricing
Aug 31 – Oct 30
-
10KM Trail Race
Price changes in 19 days 55 minutes-
Take on the challenge of the Horseshoe Valley Hustle 10K solo, where steep climbs, fast descents, and rugged trails push your endurance through the demanding terrain of Horseshoe Valley Resort. 10K runners will complete 2 laps of the 5K course.
-
Register for 10KM Trail RaceCA$75.54
Early bird pricing
Now registering May 1 – Aug 30 -
CA$86.82
Late pricing
Aug 31 – Oct 30
-
8-Hour Endurance Challenge - SOLO
Price changes in 19 days 55 minutes-
Take on the challenge of the Horseshoe Valley Hustle 8-Hour Endurance Challenge, testing your grit, strategy, and consistency on the rugged trails of Horseshoe Valley Resort. Run solo and see how far you can go as you complete as many laps as possible over 8 hours on steep climbs, technical terrain, and demanding forested singletrack.
-
Register for 8-Hour Endurance Challenge - SOLOCA$188.30
Early bird pricing
Now registering May 1 – Aug 30 -
CA$216.49Aug 31 – Oct 30
-
Horseshoe Valley Hustle 8-Hour Endurance Challenge - Team of 2
Price changes in 19 days 55 minutes-
Take on the challenge of the Horseshoe Valley Hustle 8-Hour Endurance Challenge as a team of 2, pushing each other through 8 hours of continuous effort on rugged, technical trails at Horseshoe Valley Resort. Share the workload, build strategy around transitions, and see how far your team can go together.
-
Register for Horseshoe Valley Hustle 8-Hour Endurance Challenge - Team of 2CA$295.41
Early bird pricing
Now registering May 1 – Aug 30 -
CA$340.52Aug 31 – Oct 30
-
Horseshoe Valley Hustle 8-Hour Endurance Challenge - Team of 4
Price changes in 19 days 55 minutes-
Take on the challenge of the Horseshoe Valley Hustle 8-Hour Endurance Challenge as a team of 4, combining endurance, pacing, and teamwork to maximize distance over 8 hours on steep climbs, rolling terrain, and challenging forest singletrack. Work together to keep momentum strong all day long.
-
Register for Horseshoe Valley Hustle 8-Hour Endurance Challenge - Team of 4CA$475.82
Early bird pricing
Now registering May 1 – Aug 30 -
CA$543.48Aug 31 – Oct 30
-
Horseshoe Valley Hustle 8-Hour Endurance Challenge - Team of 8
Price changes in 19 days 55 minutes-
Take on the challenge of the Horseshoe Valley Hustle 8-Hour Endurance Challenge as a team of 8, where strategy and rotation are everything. With more runners sharing the effort, your team can stay fresh, move consistently, and push for maximum distance over 8 hours on the demanding trails of Horseshoe Valley Resort.
-
Register for Horseshoe Valley Hustle 8-Hour Endurance Challenge - Team of 8CA$723.89
Early bird pricing
Now registering May 1 – Aug 30 -
CA$814.10Aug 31 – Oct 30
-
Contact information
- Event contact
- Horseshoe Valley Resort
