We're back again with another group run to Port Stanley, but this time with a twist! Instead of Sunset Drive, we'll be taking the Elgin Hiking Trail - a technical point to point trail which runs parallel to Sunset all the way to Port!
The full distance is 30k, but we have various shorter starting points at each place the trail crosses the road (27.5k, 20k, 17.5k, 14.5k, and 8k). Afterwards, we'll finish up at Port Stanley Brewing for a post-run social with food and beverages. Rides back to your vehicles are available (provided by volunteers!) for those that need it.
This is a relatively technical trail, so we'll be taking our time and strongly recommend staying with the group unless you are familiar with the trail and/or know how to follow the blazes to navigate. Trail shoes are recommended, and be prepared for such hazards as mud, water, roots, rocks, and steep hills.
Note: The first 10k has limited road access, so if you're doing the 30k or 27.5k distances, you are required to carry at least 500mL of water. We reserve the right to refuse or change distances for anyone we feel is not prepared enough for the longer distances.
A support vehicle will be provided with water and snacks, operated by a volunteer. You will have the opportunity at your starting point to leave any items in the support vehicle that you require along the way (e.g. personal hydration and nutrition, dry clothes) and will have access to them at each pickup point, at the John Wise and Union aid stations, as well as at the end.
If you're volunteering to help drive people back to their cars, you have the option of being picked up before the event in Port Stanley if you don't have someone to help you drop their vehicle off.
For more details on what to expect during the different distances, check out the event guide: Fall Colours Run To Port Guide
Registration fees
Where pricing applies, shown amounts include mandatory charges, items, and fees.
The Red Barn (30k)
Starting from the iconic Red Barn (38811 Talbot Line) in Payne's Mills at 7:20am. Participants joining at this point must carry at least 500mL of water. Difficulty Level: HIGH
Lyle Road (27.5k)
Starting from the Lyle Road bridge over Dodd Creek (9601 Lyle Rd.) at 7:45am. Navigate the most technical part of the route, including the horse farm. Participants joining at this point must carry at least 500mL of water. Difficulty Level: HIGH
Fingal Line (20k)
Starting from the Fingal Line bridge just West of Sunset Drive at 9:00. Some great views of the Elevated Park and the Kettle Creek flats from the top of the hills. Difficulty Level: Moderate-High
Sunset Cafe (17.5k)
Starting from Sunset Cafe at 9:25. Some incredible views of the Kettle Creek valley from the top of the bluffs. Difficulty Level: Moderate
Southdale Line (14.5k)
Starting from the West end of Southdale Line at 10:00. As you exit St. Thomas, this section crosses fields and forests, providing great views of some of the more rural parts of Elgin County. Difficulty Level: Moderate
Shaw's (8k)
Starting from Shaw's at 11:00. Take your picture at the smallest "Union Station" in North America. Option to bypass the final trail section. Difficulty Level: Moderate (Low if bypassing trail)
Post-run Social Only
Injured or have a friend or significant other that's participating and still want to join in the fun? Feel free to just join us for the post-run social if you want! (Be warned, you may get roped in to join us in the future!)
Event schedule
- Sat, October 3, 2026 7:00 AM - OPTIONAL Carpool Driver Pickup (Port Stanley Brewing) - Contact for details
- Sat, October 3, 2026 7:20 AM - 30k Start (The Red Barn)
- Sat, October 3, 2026 7:45 AM - 27.5k Start (Lyle Road)
- Sat, October 3, 2026 9:00 AM - 20k Start (Fingal Line)
- Sat, October 3, 2026 9:25 AM - 17.5k Start (Sunset Cafe)
- Sat, October 3, 2026 10:00 AM - 14.5k Start (Southdale Line)
- Sat, October 3, 2026 10:20 AM - 12.5k Aid Station (John Wise Line)
- Sat, October 3, 2026 11:00 AM - 8k Start (Shaw's)
- Sat, October 3, 2026 11:30 AM - 5k Aid Station (Union)
- Sat, October 3, 2026 12:00 PM - Estimated Finish/Arrival at Port Stanley Brewing
Contact information
- Event contact
- Jamie Edwards
- Phone
- 2264560741
- Website
- Visit website
