What can I expect from the terrain?

The course is deceptively simple. Most of your miles will be spent on urban dike trails alongside the Fraser River, which keeps things flat and predictable. However, marathon runners should prepare for about 7km of farm roads—expect a change in surface texture and perhaps some slight undulations. With only about 250m of total elevation gain, it’s a prime candidate for a PR attempt or a very comfortable first marathon. You can study the route via Gaia GPS ↗.

Will I be running in the heat?

June in the Fraser Valley is usually beautiful, but it’s a wildcard. Expect mild mornings (likely mid-teens Celsius) that can climb into the mid-to-high 20s by the time you're finishing. Since much of the course is on open dikes, there isn't much shade. Bring a hat and high-quality sun protection.

How do I get to the start line?

You'll likely fly into Vancouver International (YVR). From there, it’s about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive east to Chilliwack. I recommend staying in Chilliwack or nearby Abbotsford the night before to avoid a stressful early morning commute on the highway.

What are my options for distance?

The Marathon starts at 08:00 AM. The 21K and 11K are also available, and if you're just there for the community vibes, the 4K loop inside Island 22 Regional Park is a great option. All longer distances follow an out-and-back format, which is excellent for mental pacing—you'll know exactly what the return leg feels like.

What do I get for my registration fee?

The pricing is tiered: $120 if you book early (Dec 1 – Jan 31), $130 through May, and $140 on race day. You’ll get a finisher medal and access to post-race food. Note that this is a non-chip timed event, so you'll be relying on manual bib timing. If you are a serious racer chasing an official, certified time for a major qualifying event, keep that in mind. You can secure your spot via Raceroster ↗.

How will I manage hydration and fuel?

The organizers have laid out five aid stations for the marathon (roughly at 5.5K, 10.5K, 21K, 31.5K, and 37K). Each station is equipped with water and toilets, which is essential given the remote feel of the dike sections. Because the field is small and intimate, it feels more like a community gathering than a commercial production, but the essentials are covered.