Albion Ascent Trail Race
King's Forest - Hamilton, ON
September 27, 2026
About
Albion Ascent Trail Race is a 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 colours.The 5K and 10K routes are beginner-friendly with rolling hills with just enough challenge to keep it interesting. The 21k is mostly spent on the technical Bruce Trail and will challenge both new and seasoned trail runners!
5km - 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 runn
10k - 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!
21k - 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
Kids 1k - A relatively flat out-and-back, across the bridge and along the Red Hill Valley Trail.
Race Day
Start Line Location:
Greenhill Bowl Park & Rosedale Park, Hamilton, ON L8K 4T9, Canada (use google link & map)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:
8:35am 1km starts
9:00am 21km Starts
9:15am 10km Starts
9:30am 5km Starts
2:00pm Cut-off for all distancesSwag:
Each runner will receive an Albion Ascent Canadian made toque, printed locally, just in time for the colder weather.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!
Contact
Albion Ascent Trail Race is put on by Urban Trail Connectsions, a group of four trail runners based out of Hamilton, Ontario. They are passionate about seeing the sport grow in a way that makes it accessible to all, not just those with the means to travel to remote start and finish lines.Stephanie Jetté - Race Director
Bethany Stief - Event Coordinator
Jack Mackay - Event Coordinator
Stephanie Verkoeyen - Event Coordinator