Event Calendar
The Longest Night Run
Run or walk with us on the longest night of the year, December 21-22.
The Longest Night Run is a community vigil where we come together to remember those lost and to honour those struggling through difficult seasons in life.
Tuesday, December 21 is the winter solstice, the longest night of the year. In southern Manitoba that means 16 hours of darkness, from sunset to sunrise on the 22nd.
This is a night where we experience darkness. Grief. Loneliness. Anxiety. Weariness. We think of friends and family who are suffering. We think of the dark, lonely places in our own lives. We're not running for speed, nor heroics.
Maybe you're suffering. Maybe someone you know is suffering. This is your chance to practice longing. To practice hope. This is a vigil. This is us using our feet because words will not suffice.
And, together, we will move forward through the darkness.
MATR is honoured to be a part of hosting this event again in 2024. Join us in Steinbach this year to run together through the longest night. MATR will start the run together at 4:29 pm. If you can’t run, but you’d like to support the run, you can also join us to volunteer at the event. The Longest Night needs volunteers from 4:49 pm Dec 21 until 8:31 am Dec 22. If you can stay and help with clean up, that’s great, too! Let us know when you can help by sending an email.
Run package pickup and snacks will be available all night at The Public in Steinbach. Check out these routes starting from The Public you can cover.
You can also choose to walk or run, alone or with friends or family, anywhere you are – for 30 minutes, 2 hours, 8 hours, or the whole night.
Cost
Adults: $20
Kids: $5
Proceeds from registration as well as 100% of extra donations (which are tax-deductible) will be going to Southeast Cancer Support Services this year.
Registration includes
Participation in a memorable night of running, walking, and community
Sticker (and maybe some other goodies)
Snacks
Neck gaiter or hoodie for an additional fee
Proceeds supporting the n
Questions?
Find more details on the website: longestnightrun.com.
Email us at hello@longestnightrun.com.
We will face the darkness, together.
Single Track Sundays
Singe Track Sunday with On The Edge Running
When: 9:00 am, be there at 8:45 am to find on street parking and get your layers adjusted
Where: City Seine River Run, Winnipeg
On The Edge Running is co-hosting our second ANNUAL totally in-Seine winter run on the Seine River.
We’ll start/end at the trail access on Eggerton Road at the end of Clonard Ave.
Please dress appropriately for the weather and effort. This could be real winter running!
After the run, we’ll head to Toews Fitness Studio for Christmas cookies thanks to the generosity of On The Edge Running race directors Joel Toews and Cory Funk! MATR will provide warm drinks (coffee & hot chocolate). Feel free to bake some cookies/treats for this!
Hot Tip: Have a change of clothes and shoes so you can change from damp/cold running clothes if you plan to hang out after the run and chat over coffee!
Frozen Falcon
Race directed by: On the Edge Running
Frozen Falcon is a winter, 8-hour, looped trail running race held at the Falcon Ridge Ski Slopes located at Falcon Trails Resort. The loop is 6.5ish km/4ish mile and follows the High Lake Multi-Use Trail. Have a fun time, pushing your limits to see how far you can go in 8-hours. Go hard for 1 hour, 3 hours, 6 hours or the whole time. Just do your best and have fun! Run 8 loops, equalling just over 50k in the 8-hours, will earn you the Frozen Falcon 50k Finisher toque!
This event has a registration cap of 60 participants.
Race website: https://ontheedgerunning.com/home/frozenfalcon/
Registration: Open
Trail Work Party
Join us for a work party or Snowshoe Stomp
We’re planning a trail work day on February 8, 20245. More details will come based on weather and trail conditions in February.
Please RSVP if you’d like more details on our next event.
We typically cover 10-12 km over 5-6 hours on the trail.
Activities can include sawing, lopping, and otherwise clearing deadfall and downed trees, sprucing up signage, picking up trash, and as winter approaches we may opt to snowshoe pack trails in lieu of other work. MATR has a limited number of snowshoes we can lend to members who’d like to join us to trail stomp if they don’t own their own.
Carpooling from Winnipeg will be arranged amongst those who RSVP by signing up. You must RSVP for this trail work event. Please complete this waiver if it’s your first time joining us for trail work in 2025 and email it to info@matr.ca before joining us.
DYK: MATR members earn UTofMB points for participating in trail work?
Deer Lodge Dash
Deer Lodge Dash Social Run & Potluck
When: January 26 between 8 am and 4 pm - If you want to start running at 8 am, you can arrive as early as 7:30 am to get ready.
Where: Deer Lodge Place - Winnipeg
Join us for the second super special edition of the Deer Lodge Dash (and potluck), hosted by MATR members Joanna and Aaron!
Joanna and Aaron would like to invite you out to their home and surrounding trails on January 26 for the Deer Lodge Dash. It's a perfect way to get in a longer distance training run in the winter and enjoy a beautiful part of our city. It will be based out of their home on Deer Lodge Place, across the Assiniboine River from Assiniboine Park.
Join us at 8 am to kick off the run. Run as many laps as you feel like completing at any pace you're feeling. Don’t worry if you’re running a different pace than others, we’ll all be out there together.
The doors to the house will be open starting at 7:30 am. Aaron and Joanna will have coffee, hot chocolate, water, and a limited amount of snacks available for you at the front entrance of the house. There is enough room to bring a small bag of gear and nutrition inside for you to access in between laps, and a washroom that is shoes-on accessible!
Following the run, we will host a potluck dinner following the end of the race, so please stick around (or come back) to join us for this.
Route
After a short loop along the bluff in Omand's Park, you'll cross the pedestrian bridge at the rail line and head east along Wellington Ave for a short sidewalk run until you can access the single track trails on the south shore of the Assiniboine River.
Once you arrive at the Assiniboine Park footbridge, you will cross the river on the ice underneath the bridge, and back to Truro Creek in Bruce Park where you can access the house. We will flag the route the night before and provide a .gpx file so that it is easy to follow.
The course follows a route that is reliably frozen over, and we have been running on it since Christmas. Note that many sections of the river are not completely frozen or have thin ice, so do not stray off the course where the flagging is. As a general rule of thumb, you should never tread off of a well-beaten track on the river.
Details
Where: 40 Deer Lodge Place.
Parking: On the street or in the Bruce Park parking lot about halfway between the house and Portage Ave.
Bring: Running gear and nutrition that you can leave in the house. We'll have hot drinks and some snacks. Bring a potluck dish for afterwards if you want to stay.
Group Run
We’ll kick off the day with a group run starting at 8 am for 2-3 loops. Come for a loop or two with us or stay for the full 8 hrs (8-4 pm) and take advantage of the generosity of Aaron and Joanna.
If you can’t make it for the start, we will plan for a crew to head out each hour, on the hour so it’s easy to join the group.
If you’re doing a loop with us in the morning, consider coming back for the potluck at 4 pm. Bring a dish to share!
Hot Tip: Have a change of clothes and shoes for social time after you run. You can get chilled quickly in damp running clothes, particularly in cooler temperatures.
Banff Center Mountain Film Festival World Tour
MATR is excited to be a sponsor for the Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour presented by Alpine Club of Canada: Manitoba Section at the Centennial Concert Hall on February 1, 2025.
Stand on the highest peaks, ski the steepest slopes, and be a part of the gripping adventures waiting for you in this year’s Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour.
As part of our sponsorship, MATR will have a booth at the pre-show expo on the mezzanine. If you can help us at the event, let us know!
We’ll be giving away 2 tickets drawn from anyone who has a 2025 membership by December 10, 2024.
Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour
Please note: Some films are rated PG (not recommended for young children, coarse language).
Super Thanks Sunday @ Big Sky Run Co
STS @ Big Sky Run Co
Join us for an afternoon of fun and friendship with our friends at Big Sky Run Co!
If you’d like to group run, meet us at Big Sky Run Co at noon to get suited up. We’ll head for a run at 12:30 and be out for about an hour.
If you’d like to skip the group run, stop by anytime between 1:30 pm and 4 pm to have the most fun mixing and mingling with the trail run community and snacking on some tasty treats. We hear there might be some sweet sales so you can stock up on essentials before the winter race season heats up in February.
The afternoon will feature:
very special pricing on many items in-store
food, drinks, and a chance to visit with us and with each other
lots of give-aways and draw prizes
generally a good vibe and a feel-good time in the shop on a day they are open just for you!
You MUST have a 2025 MATR membership to attend this event. We’ll send you an email invite if you have your membership!
If you don’t have yours yet, you can purchase it now.
Trail Work Party
Join us for a work party or Snowshoe Stomp
We’re planning a trail work day on February 8, 20245. More details will come based on weather and trail conditions in February.
Please RSVP if you’d like more details on our next event.
We typically cover 10-12 km over 5-6 hours on the trail.
Activities can include sawing, lopping, and otherwise clearing deadfall and downed trees, sprucing up signage, picking up trash, and as winter approaches we may opt to snowshoe pack trails in lieu of other work. MATR has a limited number of snowshoes we can lend to members who’d like to join us to trail stomp if they don’t own their own.
Carpooling from Winnipeg will be arranged amongst those who RSVP by signing up. You must RSVP for this trail work event. Please complete this waiver if it’s your first time joining us for trail work in 2025 and email it to info@matr.ca before joining us.
DYK: MATR members earn UTofMB points for participating in trail work?
Actif Epica
Directed by: Actif Epica
Location: St. Pierre-Jolys, Manitoba
Distances: Short (50K), Mid (115k) or Long (162k)
Overview: Actif Epica Ltd is a self-supported winter endurance event. It promotes health benefits associated with outdoor activity in icy temperatures, snowy and/or windswept trails and paths, and celebrates human resilience.
Registration: OPEN
Race Website: https://actifepi.ca
Manitoba Snowshoe Run
Directed by: Race RMNP
Location: Northgate Trails
Distance: 5 or 10 KM
Join Race RMNP us on February 19, 2024, on Louis Riel Day on the shores of Riding Mountain National Parks Clear Lake in Wasagaming, Manitoba! The new and improved Manitoba Snowshoe Run is a not-for-profit fundraising event designed to test your limits and keep you active this winter. All race day participants will have a 5km or 10km option and will receive some great race day swag and snacks. Don't worry; if you can't make the event, Race RMNP challenges you to try the virtual event.
Race website: https://www.racermnp.ca/index.php/manitoba-snowshoe-run/details
Registration: Opens December 1, 2024
Single Track Sundays
Single Track Sunday
When: Meet at 9:00 am, welcome and run at 9:15 am
Where: Amisk Trail, La Barrière Provincial Park
Join us for a run along the south side of the Seine River in La Barrierel!L
Last winter we ran the double-track trails on the west side of La Bariere Park. This year, we’re going to follow the single track trail behind Camp Amisk.
This is approximately an approximately 6.8km out and back route along the Seine River bank.
Hot Tip: Have a change of clothes and shoes for the ride home. You can get chilled quickly in damp running clothes, particularly in cooler temperatures. A thermos of something warm to drink afterwards is also nice!
Single Track Sundays
Single Track Sunday
When: 10:00 am at the trailhead, welcome and run 10:15 am
Where: Minnewasta Lake Trails, Morden
Join us for a wintery run around Lake Minneswata in Morden!
We have a great 8 km route that circumnavigates the lake, including passing through the golf course, which isn’t accessible in the summertime! We love this route so much we’re repeating it again this year.
Run the full loop once, or run it twice!
Hot Tip: Have a change of clothes and shoes for the ride home. You can get chilled quickly in damp running clothes, particularly in cooler temperatures.
NOTE: We’re all-weather people and run under all conditions. However, this event may be rescheduled if the road conditions make travelling unsafe on the
Manitoba Trails Day
Manitoba Trails Day coincides with International Trails Day, a day dedicated to celebrate trails.
Trail Work Day
Join us for a work party
We’re planning a trail work party on December 15, 2024. Your presence is crucial to the success of our trail work event. Throughout the day, we'll tackle various tasks, including clearing dead-fall, brush-cutting, sprucing up the trail signage, and more. You'll use hand tools like loppers and portable saws to make this happen.
Date: Sunday, December 15th
Location: Powerline access to Telford Tower
Distance: Approximately 9.4km
Duration: 6 hours
Activity: Hiking or snowshoeing (depending on weather conditions)
What to pack:
Warm winter clothing: layers, winter coat, hat, gloves, and boots
Winter footwear: hiking boots or snowshoes (depending on preference)
Water and snacks to keep you fueled
A positive attitude and a willingness to lend a hand!
Important notes:
Complete the online waiver: All participants must submit the waiver before joining. If you haven't already, email it to info@matr.ca.
Winter weather: Be prepared for cold temperatures, snow, and ice.
No personal swinging or power tools: We'll provide all necessary tools for the job.
For those interested in carpooling, we'll meet at 7 a.m in Winnipeg. Carpooling from Winnipeg will be arranged amongst those who RSVP by signing up. You must RSVP for this trail work event. Please complete this waiver if it’s your first time joining us for trail work in 2024 and email it to info@matr.ca before joining us.
We welcome four-legged friends on the trail under the following conditions: Any dogs must be leashed if accompanying us, both for safety reasons (tools are dangerous) and to comply with leash laws requiring all pets to be on leash in provincial parks.
NOTE: We’re all-weather people and run under all conditions, however, this event may be re-scheduled if the road conditions make it unsafe to travel on the day.
DYK: MATR members earn UTofMB points for participating in trail work? This will count toward 2025 points.
Single Track Saturday
Scandinavian Jule Hygge
When: 9:30 am, be there at 9:15 am to find on-street parking and get your layers adjusted
Where: Stonewall, Winnipeg
Join us for a Scandinavian Jule Hygge Run!
We're thrilled to partner with RE:BE MVNT to bring you a unique Christmas experience. Get ready to embrace the Scandinavian spirit of hygge (coziness) as we embark on a festive adventure at the Stonewall Quarry.
What to Expect:
Warm-up run: We'll start with a group run to the quarry, approximately 2km.
Ornament hunt: Once at the quarry, we'll embark on a timed scavenger hunt for hidden Christmas ornaments.
Cool-down run: After the hunt, we'll run back to Sara's as a group cool-down.
Bonfire & festive treats: Gather around the bonfire, sip on warm mulled wine, and indulge in delicious Scandinavian Christmas treats.
Important Notes:
Dress for the weather: Be prepared for winter conditions. Dress in warm layers for running AND be prepared to stand around a bonfire after the run. We recommend bringing snow pants, parkas, boots, and mittens for after.
Distance: The minimum distance is 5km, but you can cover more ground depending on your speed and ambition during the scavenger hunt.
This is a run for all levels of experience!
Prizes: The top ornament hunters will win delicious prizes!
Join us for a fun-filled day of winter running, holiday cheer, and Scandinavian Christmas goodies!
Hot Tip: Have a change of clothes and shoes so you can change from damp/cold running clothes if you plan to hang out after the run!
Trail Work Day
Join us for a work party
We’re planning a trail work party on November 23, 2024. Your presence is crucial to the success of our trail work event. Throughout the day, we'll tackle various tasks, including clearing dead-fall, sprucing up the trail signage, tidying up trash, and more. You'll use hand tools like loppers and portable saws to make this happen.
Plan: Expect to cover ~11+ kms over 6-8 hours of trail maintenance.
Where: Centennial Trail (powerline access)
When: November 23, 9:00 am at the Alfred Hole Goose Sanctury Parking LOt
You must sign-up for trail work events and complete a waiver if it’s your first time joining us in any calendar year. More detailed information and a plan for the day are emailed directly to those who sign up.
Don't forget to bring your essentials, such as water, snacks,and any other items you might need to stay comfortable and fueled throughout the day. You should be prepared for a 6-hour day (11 km hike) into the more remote and breathtaking areas of the trail that MATR is responsible for.
We recommend having dry clothes and shoes to change into for the drive home.
For those interested in carpooling, we'll meet at 7 a.m in Winnipeg. Carpooling from Winnipeg will be arranged amongst those who RSVP by signing up. You must RSVP for this trail work event. Please complete this waiver if it’s your first time joining us for trail work in 2024 and email it to info@matr.ca before joining us.
We welcome four-legged friends on the trail under the following conditions: Any dogs must be leashed if accompanying us, both for safety reasons (tools are dangerous) and to comply with leash laws requiring all pets to be on leash in provincial parks.
NOTE: We’re all-weather people and run under all conditions, however, this event may be re-scheduled if the road conditions make it unsafe to travel on the day.
DYK: MATR members earn UTofMB points for participating in trail work? This will count toward 2025 points.
Single Track Sunday
When: 9:30 am at the trailhead, we’ll aim to be running by 9:45 am
Where: McArthur Rocks Trail, McArthur Falls, MB (50.42234, -96.01371)
Join us when we explore the McArthur Rocks trail later this this month.
We’ll run an approximately 9.7 km winding single-track trail through the forest off HWY 11 between McArthur & Great Falls. There will be the opportunity to complete a smaller loop if desired as there are several points this trail network intersects on itself.
In an effort to minimize the number of vehicles travelling, we will be organizing a carpool leaving Winnipeg. at 7:30 am. Expect approximately 1.5 hours of drive time each direction. Friends with vehicles with all-wheel drive or 4x4 vehicles who are willing to drive are welcome. There is limited parking at the trailhead, so we strongly encourage joining the carpool or arranging your own carpool with friends.
Please dress appropriately for the weather and effort. If you need some tips on layering for colder weather runs, feel free to message us on social or email us at info@matr.ca.
Pack your own water/hydration and snacks for the trail. Depending on the weather, we may hang out for a bit post-run. Feel free to bring snacks or beverages to share afterwards!
Hot Tip: Have a change of clothes and shoes for the ride home, as it’s easy to get chilled in damp running clothes after your run.
Single Track Sunday
All Women’s Run
Manitoba has an incredible community of women trail runners, and to recognize this, we’re excited to host an ALL-WOMEN’s Single Track Sunday. This run is open to all runners who identify as women.
We’re excited to co-host this run with Caroline Fisher, from Big Sky Run Co.
When: 9:00 am at the trailhead, we’ll aim to be running by 9:15 am
Where: *Birds Hill Park, Nimowin Trail Head.
This is a great opportunity to try out trail running for the first time if you’ve thought about trying trail running but found it intimidating. We’ll take you on some twisty-turny single track, and soak in time together on the trail.
We’ve curated a route on the not-so-secret single track in the northeast corner of Birds Hill Provincial Park. If you’ve never run these trails, you’re in for a treat with sweet, winding single track featuring rocks and roots to test your footing. And possibly some snow!
We’ll mark an approximately 6.5km route for runners to do as many or as few loops as they like. There are numerous social trails in this area, and it can be easy to get turned around so we’ll pre-mark out our route for the day with flagging tape at each junction.
Please dress appropriately for the weather and effort. If you need some tips on layering for colder weather runs, feel free to message us on social or email us at info@matr.ca, or swing by Big Sky Run Co for some layering tips.
Pack your own water/hydration and snacks for the trail. Depending on the weather, we may hang out for a bit post-run. Feel free to bring snacks or beverages to share afterwards. We’ll head down to The Village at Pine Ridge for some post-run chats and coffee.
Hot Tip: Have a change of clothes and shoes for the after run social time and drive home, as it’s easy to get chilled in damp running clothes after your run.
Trails In Motion Film Fest & 2024 UTofMB Awards Night
We’re pleased to present theTrails In Motion 12 Film Tour with 5 great films from around the world. Join us for a night that celebrates trail running here at home and around the world.
We'll be celebrating a great season of trail work and races, by crowning the winners in our 2024 Ultimate Trails of Manitoba series and giving away great prizes. MATR members have been earning points for every local trail race they complete or volunteer at. Members also earned points by participating in trail work days with us.
Once again we’ll host a gear swap as part of this event.
Bring your (clean) pre-loved (trail) running gear to swap with other runners.
Maybe you want to get rid of some gear that doesn't fit any more or that you don't really use after all.
Sell it or give it away for free. It's up to you.
Please be prepared with CASH if you're hoping to score some great gear (and please be able to make change if you're selling your stuff). We’ll have several tables set up so people can put out the gear they’re hoping to re-home. Please make sure you mark any time you’d like to sell with your name and price.
Pinawa Dam Trail Run
Race directed by: Wonder Athletes
Location: Pinawa Dam Provincial Park
Distances: 5km and 14km
Finish: Pinawa Golf Course #1 Willis Dr. Pinawa, Mb
Distance: 14 km & 5 km (suitable for runners & hikers)
Event Medal
Trail course marshals & first aid provided
Dogs are allowed in the trail run
Race info: https://wonderathletes.com/pinawa-dam-trail-run/
Registration: Open (via email).
Trail Work Day
Join us for a work party in the fall colours
We’re planning a trail work day on October 20, 2024. Please sign up if you can make it.
Plan: Expect to cover ~6 kms over 4-6 hours of trail maintenance in the Whiteshell Provincial Park.
When: October 20, at 9:00 a.m.
A more detailed plan for the day is shared with those who sign-up.
Trail work this month will focus on things like clearing dead-fall, trash clean up, and trimming around trail signage, etc.
Participants will be required to use hand tools like loppers and/or folding saws.
Participants should be able to carry a pack with their own water and snacks for the day and have the stamina to hike into the more remote areas of the trail MATR is responsible for.
We welcome four-legged friends on the trail under the following conditions: If accompanying us, dogs must be leashed, both for safety reasons (tools are dangerous) and to comply with leash laws requiring all pets to be on leash in provincial parks.
Carpooling from Winnipeg will be arranged amongst those who RSVP by completing this form. Carpool departure from Winnipeg will be at 7 a.m.
Please complete this waiver if it’s your first time joining us for trail work in 2024 and email it to info@matr.ca before joining us.
DYK: MATR members earn UTofMB points for participating in trail work?
Single Track Sunday
Join us for a spin around the park in Birds Hill town this month for a turkey trot on the trails.
When: 8:15 am at the trailhead, run at 8:30 am
Where: Silver Springs Park/Swistun Family Heritage Park, Birds Hill (entrance off Birds Hill Road)
Join us for a couple of laps around this little gem just north of Winnipeg.
We’ll mix and match some single track adventures with the packed limestone paths that run through this little park.
We have a 5 km zig-zaggy base loop for you to run. After we do one lap, you can decide where your feet take you for additional kilometers.
Pack your own water/hydration and snacks for the trail.
We’ll plan to snack at the trailhead after the run. We’d love it if you brought snacks to share with the group!
We try to organize a carpool before each event to reduce the number of vehicles at trailheads and reduce our group emissions. If you have extra space in your car or need a ride, please email us at info@matr.ca and we’ll try to connect folks.
Hot Tip: Have a change of clothes and shoes for the drive home, it’s so much better than driving home in damp running clothes.
Beaudry Fall Classic
Race Directed by: On the Edge Running
Location: Beaudry Provincial Park
Distances: 6, 12, 24, 48 hours
The Beaudry Fall Classic is a timed-loop trail race held at Beaudry Provincial Park, just west of Winnipeg, Manitoba. Each loop is about 5.1 km and participants can sign up for 6, 12, 24 & 48-hour solo options, as well as a new fun night run!
Race info: https://ontheedgerunning.com/home/beaudryfallclassic/
Registration: TBA
Fat Ass Mantario Marathon Trail Run
Mantario Marathon
A 2-day, 63K, Self-Supported Mantario Trail Fat-Ass event (Walk - Run - Trek)
This is a Fat Ass event which means = no fee, no aid, no swag, no whining.
Inclusive. Non-binary, Female, Male. Run, walk, hike, fastpack.
Since 1980 people have been completing the Mantario Marathon on the last full weekend in September. It's a 2-day, Self-Supported Mantario Trail run where you camp halfway at Moosehead Lake.
Saturday the race begins with a mass start at the Caddy Lake South Mantario Trailhead, finishing 32 km later at Moosehead, the halfway overnight campsite. All the race participants need to be self-reliant & carry everything needed for 2 days, including the halfway camp. Day 2, features a reversed start based on individual times from Saturday, with the first start at 7 AM and everyone else follows based on their time lead or placement from the day before. The race finishes 32 km later at the Big Whiteshell North Mantario Trailhead.
The event is challenging. It is not officially rated but consider it a Black Diamond trail. It's a difficult trail to traverse as well as to follow. Most people lose contact with the trail and have to find the trail again, often several times each day. There is no aid along the trail. Camping is wilderness camping with no services. Expect a lot of ups and downs with more than 1500 metres of loss and gain. The trail is through boreal forest and Canadian shield. There are numerous water crossings. The trail is often wet and slippery.
TRED Group Run
When: 5:45 pm meet up, 6:00 pm welcome and run, ~6:30ish pm social hour
Where: Westview Park, meet at the north face of the hill
The run: Garbage Hill has something for everyone. We’ll play on the single-track, the sledding hill, the gravel path, and heck, we’ll even run on the road a bit. The idea behind picking Garbage Hill is that there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for some intense vert gains or you’re new to trails and hills, we can all run together-ish.
Apres run: Join us for snacks on the hill! We’re planning a bbq for our last official TRED run.
We’re super excited to be part of the TRED (Trail. Run. Explore. Dream) North American Tour of group runs this summer, sponsored by The North Face.
We also have weekly prizes from The North Face to give away.
After the run, please join us for some social time to connect and chat with new and old friends over snacks and a cold drink.
This is also a family-friendly run. Feel free to bring your partner, children, or anyone else you think would enjoy a summer evening at the hill.
Each run is co-hosted by at least two MATR volunteers.
Our third run will be hosted by two run leaders: Carrie, Cat, and Miriam
Bellringer
Race Directed by: Boundary Trails Nordic Junior Development Team
Boundary Trails Nordic Junior Development (Ski) Team invites skiers, runners, hikers and bikers to an amazing single-track running/hiking race!
Some pretty awesome single-track trail awaits your feet at the second annual Bell Ringer 5-Hour Run/Hike.
The Shannondale Valley, just north of Thornhill, Manitoba, boasts some serious elevation to test your mind and body. With 100 meters of elevation per 4 KM loop, you will soon find yourself searching deep within only to find out that your bell has been rung!!
How many 4km loops can you complete in 5 hours?
Registration: May 5
Follow Boundary Trails Nordic Club on Facebook for updates.
Epic East Gate
Race Directed By: Race RMNP
Location: East Gate Riding Mountain National Park
Distances: 10 km, 25 km & 50 km
The Dauphin Rotary Club, working closely with Parks Canada, is excited to bring you Epic East Gate! The only ultra and trail running event to be held within the confines of Riding Mountain National Park. Beginning at the Historic East Gate just 15 minutes from Mcreary, Manitoba, the 50km figure 8 course and 25 KM single loop course, will have elevation gains of >1000M and >500M respectively and the 10 KM route along a lower Reeves Ravine out and back is a great introduction to trail running. For 25 and 50 km runners there are EPIC views from the iconic Little Bald Hill that will have you quickly forget that you are in the heart of the Prairies while the flowy, single track, technical descents of Upper Reeves Ravine will have you convinced you found a slice of big mountain running.
Race info: https://www.racermnp.ca/index.php/epic-east-gate/details
Registration: Open (Early bird pricing ends March 3)
TRED Group Run
When: 5:45 pm meet up, 6:00 pm welcome and run, ~6:30ish pm social hour
Where: Westview Park, meet at the north face of the hill
The run: Garbage Hill has something for everyone. We’ll play on the single-track, the sledding hill, the gravel path, and heck, we’ll even run on the road a bit. The idea behind picking Garbage Hill is that there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for some intense vert gains or you’re new to trails and hills, we can all run together-ish.
Apres run: Join us for snacks on the hill!
We’re super excited to be part of the TRED (Trail. Run. Explore. Dream) North American Tour of group runs this summer, sponsored by The North Face.
We also have weekly prizes from The North Face to give away.
After the run, please join us for some social time to connect and chat with new and old friends over snacks and a cold drink.
This is also a family-friendly run. Feel free to bring your partner, children, or anyone else you think would enjoy a summer evening at the hill.
Each run is co-hosted by at least two MATR volunteers.
Our third run will be hosted by two run leaders: Miriam
Single Track Sunday
Join us for an extra special trip to the northern part of Whiteshell Provincial Park.
When: 9:00 am at Bannock Point, 11:00 am at Pine Point Rapids Trailhead.
Where: Bannock Point Petroforms and Pine Point Rapids, Whiteshell Provincial Park
Join us for an excursion to experience the history and beauty of the northern Whiteshill.
We’re hosting an extra special STS that starts with a guided tour of the Bannock Point Petrofrom site with Diane Maytwayashing, Indigenous Knowledge Keeper and the Heritage Interpreter of the Whiteshell Petroforms. The tour starts at 9:00 am. Please arrive 15 minutes early. Learn more about Diane’s work.
We will head to the Pine Point Rapids trailhead, approximately 5 minutes away after the tour. This scenic run along the Whiteshell River combines some granite slab with super runnable packed dirt trail.
We’ve picked an ~8km route for the day which takes us past the main rapids, as well as a tour by the Acron and Viburnum Falls. If you wish to complete a shorter run on the day, the main rapids' turnaround point offers a 5km route. We will be running the route from the main rapids as an out-and-back to maximize our time on the single-track. You may also take the double track back to the start point.
Pack your own water/hydration and snacks for the trail.
We’ll plan to snack at the trailhead after the run. We’d love it if you brought snacks to share with the group!
The petroforms are stones laid out on the bedrock in the shapes of turtles, snakes, geometric designs and a Thunderbird. The petrofroms have cultural significance to the first people of this area. Learn more about Bannock Point Petroforms.
We try to organize a carpool before each event to reduce the number of vehicles at trailheads and reduce our group emissions. If you have extra space in your car or need a ride, please email us at info@matr.ca and we’ll try to connect folks. Expect about 2 hours of driving plus any bathroom breaks you need on the way. There are outhouses at the trailhead.
Hot Tip: Have a change of clothes and shoes for the drive home, it’s so much better than driving in damp running clothes.
TRED Group Run
When: 5:45 pm meet up, 6:00 pm welcome and run, ~6:30ish pm social hour
Where: Westview Park, meet at the north face of the hill
The run: Garbage Hill has something for everyone. We’ll play on the single-track, the sledding hill, the gravel path, and heck, we’ll even run on the road a bit. The idea behind picking Garbage Hill is that there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for some intense vert gains or you’re new to trails and hills, we can all run together-ish.
Apres run: Join us for snacks on the hill!
We’re super excited to be part of the TRED (Trail. Run. Explore. Dream) North American Tour of group runs this summer, sponsored by The North Face.
We also have weekly prizes from The North Face to give away.
After the run, please join us for some social time to connect and chat with new and old friends over snacks and a cold drink.
This is also a family-friendly run. Feel free to bring your partner, children, or anyone else you think would enjoy a summer evening at the hill.
Each run is co-hosted by at least two MATR volunteers.
Our third run will be hosted by two run leaders: Adam, Cat, and Miriam
Race The North Face
Race Directed by: Trails of ‘Toba
Distances: 10km, 25km, 50km and 750m Kids Run!
The Brandon Hills are a well kept secret, with over 90% gnarly single-track and unrelenting hills, to long climbs up "The Spine" a 2.5km long ridge-line which rises above the forest giving absolutely stunning 360 degree views of the prairies below. This is all made possible by a massive glacier deposit which formed this area many years ago. Please note that The Spine is on private property and requires permission prior to accessing.
All three distances are challenging in their own rights with the 10km being a great introduction to true trail running (you know, rocky, rooty, climbing and descending all those fun things!). The 25km shows competitors all the Brandon Hills have to offer, including running The Spine, with it being a full loop of the area. The 50km Ultra is 2 loops so you know what kind of hurt is in when you take on round 2... the views are worth it, right?
Race info: https://trailsoftoba.com/race-the-north-face
Registration: Registration open (Early bird pricing till February 23, registration closes July 5)
TRED Group Run
When: 5:45 pm meet up, 6:00 pm welcome and run, ~6:30ish pm social hour
Where: Westview Park, meet at the north face of the hill
The run: Garbage Hill has something for everyone. We’ll play on the single-track, the sledding hill, the gravel path, and heck, we’ll even run on the road a bit. The idea behind picking Garbage Hill is that there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for some intense vert gains or you’re new to trails and hills, we can all run together-ish.
Apres run: We’d like your suggestions - another picnic or hit a brewery near by (One Great City, Oxus, Barnhammer)?
We’re super excited to be part of the TRED (Trail. Run. Explore. Dream) North American Tour of group runs this summer, sponsored by The North Face.
We also have weekly prizes from The North Face to give away.
After the run, please join us for some social time to connect and chat with new and old friends over snacks and a cold drink.
This is also a family-friendly run. Feel free to bring your partner, children, or anyone else you think would enjoy a summer evening at the hill.
Each run is co-hosted by at least two MATR volunteers.
Our third run will be hosted by two run leaders: Adam
TRED Group Run
When: 5:45 pm meet up, 6:00 pm welcome and run, ~6:30ish pm social hour
Where: Westview Park, meet at the north face of the hill
The run: Garbage Hill has something for everyone. We’ll play on the single-track, the sledding hill, the gravel path, and heck, we’ll even run on the road a bit. The idea behind picking Garbage Hill is that there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for some intense vert gains or you’re new to trails and hills, we can all run together-ish.
Apres run: We’d like your suggestions - another picnic or hit a brewery near by (One Great City, Oxus, Barnhammer)?
We’re super excited to be part of the TRED (Trail. Run. Explore. Dream) North American Tour of group runs this summer, sponsored by The North Face.
We also have weekly prizes from The North Face to give away.
After the run, please join us for some social time to connect and chat with new and old friends over snacks and a cold drink.
This is also a family-friendly run. Feel free to bring your partner, children, or anyone else you’d think would enjoy a summer evening at the hill.
Each run is co-hosted by at least two MATR volunteers.
Our third run will be hosted by two run leaders: Mallory and Miriam
Single Track Sunday
When: 9:00 am at the trailhead, welcome and run 9:15 am.
Where: Tunnel Island, Kenora
Join us for a run around the magical trails of Tunnel Island in Kenora. We’re excited to have Shawna, MATR member and organizer of Lake of the Woods Adventure Group, co-leading this run!
We took you here in March when the trails were ICY and DICEY, and we can’t wait to show you these again in summery conditions.
We’ve picked an ~8km route for the day and will take you to all the best parts of Tunnel Island.
Pack your own water/hydration and snacks for the trail.
We’re planning to head for ice cream on the way home and jump in a body of water, so join us if you’re game.
We try to organize a carpool before each event to reduce the number of vehicles at trailheads and reduce our group emissions. If you have extra space in your car, or need a ride, please email us at info@matr.ca and we’ll try to connect folks. Expect about 2 hours of driving plus any bathroom breaks you need on the way. There are no outhouses at the trailhead - you may want to stop at a gas station en route if you need a toilet break on your drive out.
Hot Tip: Have a change of clothes and shoes for the ride home. You can get chilled quickly in damp running clothes, particularly in cooler temperatures.
NOTE: We’re all-weather people and run under all conditions.
TRED Group Run
When: 5:45 pm meet up, 6:00 pm welcome and run, ~6:30ish pm social hour
Where: Westview Park, meet at the north face of the hill
The run: Garbage Hill has something for everyone. We’ll play on the single-track, the sledding hill, the gravel path, and heck, we’ll even run on the road a bit. The idea behind picking Garbage Hill is that there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for some intense vert gains or you’re new to trails and hills, we can all run together-ish.
Apres run: We’d like your suggestions - another picnic or hit a brewery near by (One Great City, Oxus, Barnhammer)?
We’re super excited to be part of the TRED (Trail. Run. Explore. Dream) North American Tour of group runs this summer, sponsored by The North Face.
We also have weekly prizes from The North Face to give away.
After the run, please join us for some social time to connect and chat with new and old friends over snacks and a cold drink.
This is also a family-friendly run. Feel free to bring your partner, children, or anyone else you’d think would enjoy a summer evening at the hill.
Each run is co-hosted by at least two MATR volunteers.
Our third run will be hosted by two run leaders: Cat and Mallory
TRED Group Run
When: 5:45 pm meet up, 6:00 pm welcome and run, ~6:30ish pm social hour
Where: Westview Park, meet at the north face of the hill
The run: Garbage Hill has something for everyone. We’ll play on the single-track, the sledding hill, the gravel path, and heck, we’ll even run on the road a bit. The idea behind picking Garbage Hill is that there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for some intense vert gains or you’re new to trails and hills, we can all run together-ish.
Apres run: We’d like your suggestions - another picnic or hit a brewery near by (One Great City, Oxus, Barnhammer)?
We’re super excited to be part of the TRED (Trail. Run. Explore. Dream) North American Tour of group runs this summer, sponsored by The North Face.
We also have weekly prizes from The North Face to give away.
After the run, please join us for some social time to connect and chat with new and old friends over snacks and a cold drink.
This is also a family-friendly run. Feel free to bring your partner, children, or anyone else you’d think would enjoy a summer evening at the hill.
Each run is co-hosted by at least two MATR volunteers.
Our third run will be hosted by two run leaders: Adam and Mallory
Prairie Goat VK
Race Directed by: Adam Moore
Think you can conquer 30 hill climbs before the 4-hour cut-off and reach that coveted vertical kilometer (VK) goal? There's only one way to find out!
Registration: Registration open (Registration closes August 9)
Birds Hill Trail Series - Esker 8k
Race Directed by: On the Edge Running
Location: Birds Hill Provincial Park
Distance: 8k
The Birds Hill Trail Series is a summer, Thursday-evening, three-race series held at Birds Hill Provincial Park on Treaty 1 Land, just north of Winnipeg, Manitoba.
Race info: https://ontheedgerunning.com/home/birdshilltrailseries
Registration: TBA
TRED Group Run
When: 5:45 pm meet up, 6:00 pm welcome and run, ~6:30ish pm social hour
Where: Westview Park, meet at the north face of the hill
The run: Garbage Hill has something for everyone. We’ll play on the single-track, the sledding hill, the gravel path, and heck, we’ll even run on the road a bit. The idea behind picking Garbage Hill is that there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for some intense vert gains or you’re new to trails and hills, we can all run together-ish.
Apres run: This week week we’ll picnic on the hill.
We’re super excited to be part of the TRED (Trail. Run. Explore. Dream) North American Tour of group runs this summer, sponsored by The North Face.
We also have weekly prizes from The North Face to give away.
After the run, please join us for some social time to connect and chat with new and old friends over snacks and a cold drink. This week, we’ll be picnicking on the hill (weather permitting) after the run. Feel free to bring a snack to share.
This is also a family-friendly run. Feel free to bring your partner, children, or anyone else you’d think would enjoy a summer evening at the hill.
Each run is co-hosted by at least two MATR volunteers.
Our third run will be hosted by two run leaders: Cat, Mallory, and Miriam
Rider vs Runner
Race Directed by: Jeff Bond
Location: Souris Riverbend WMA
Distance: 25 miles
For only the third time in Canada, a Rider vs Runner race at the scenic Souris Riverbend Wildlife Management Area will be held in cooperation with an Endurance Riding Event.
Runners compete against horse riders over a 25-mile course with river crossings, steep climbs, and descents, with approximately 2,000 feet of gain/loss.
Test your skills against fellow outdoor enthusiasts in a thrilling race through the scenic trails of the wildlife area. Don't miss out on the opportunity to push your limits and see who will come out on top - riders or runners! Lace-up your shoes for an unforgettable day of competition and fun.
The cost is $54.58, and the proceeds go to the Equestrian Club, which maintains the trails at this location.
There is camping there or at Jeff’s place.
Registration: Open
TRED Group Run
When: 5:45 pm meet up, 6:00 pm welcome and run, ~6:30ish pm social hour
Where: Westview Park, meet at the north face of the hill
The run: Garbage Hill has something for everyone. We’ll play on the single-track, the sledding hill, the gravel path, and heck, we’ll even run on the road a bit. The idea behind picking Garbage Hill is that there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for some intense vert gains or you’re new to trails and hills, we can all run together-ish.
Apres run: This week we plan to head to Wall Street Slice for a bite after the run.
We’re super excited to be part of the TRED (Trail. Run. Explore. Dream) North American Tour of group runs this summer, sponsored by The North Face.
We have weekly prizes from The North Face to give away.
After the run, please join us for some social time to connect and chat with new and old friends over snacks and a cold drink. This week, we plan to head to Wall Street Slice for a bite after the run.
Each run is co-hosted by at least two MATR volunteers.
Our third run will be hosted by two run leaders: Cat and Miriam.
Single Track Sunday
Save the date for our July Single Track Sunday!
When: 8:15 am at the trailhead, 8:30 am welcome and run
Where: Cedar Trail from Epinette Trailhead, Spruce Woods Provincial Park
We’re heading to Spruce Woods Provincial Park to bask in the hills of Westman.
Despite the drive time, this is going to be an early start to escape the heat in the middle of the day!
The route: We'll start by following the Spruce trail, including the rehabilitated single track leading into Cabin 2. From there, we’ll use the Juniper trail to connect to the Cedar loop before rejoining Juniper (we’ll stop at the photo point over the valley here before following the back half of Spruce back to our start point. This is approximately a 10km loop. You can run this once or twice to get your goal kilometers in for the day. Download the route file for your watch (.gpx).
For those of us joining us who wish to do a shorter run, you’ll follow the Juniper trail loop back to Spruce trail. This route option is approximately 5.8 km. You can review this route on All Trails. These trails are wide and well maintained with great forest views and lots of open space. There are a few views of the small ponds located in the area.
This route offers stunning river valley views that will make you forget you’re on the prairies. On the Cedar trail there are a number of short trail junctions (all signed) that let you take the slightly “flatter” route or a more hill, scenic option. Most of these trail spurs are 200-300 m, so you can choose your own adventure at these decision points. They all link back to the main single track we’ll be following on Cedar. This route is well-marked with provincial park signs, and we will not add additional flagging tape this month. Review a map of the trail network from Manitoba Parks.
What you need for the run: Pack your own water/hydration and snacks for the trail. It can get HOT in Spruce Woods during the summer, so make sure you’re carrying at least 1l of water (with electrolytes), if not more, for our run. You should also plan to bring yourself some snacks (gels, trailmix, fruitsource bars, pb & j sandwiches all work well) you can consume while on the trail. We pass a water pump on this run at Cabin 2 on this loop. We will pass this point at about 3 km into the run and again at 7 km if you need to refill bottles.
Apres run: We plan to picnic at the trailhead after the run, so feel free to bring something to share with the group. We’ll probably head down to the swimming spot at Kiche Manitou campground to cool off before heading home, too.
Getting there: Highway 5 was in rough shape in May, and we haven’t been out since. Leave extra time for the drive between Carberry and the park, as the road conditions require a slower speed.
We try to organize a carpool each month to reduce travel emissions, build community connections, and cut down on parking congestion. Please email us if you can offer a ride to someone on the day. Please note that our run leader is camping at Kiche Manitou this month before the run and cannot offer rides. Feel free to make a weekend of it and join us at the campground!
Hot Tips:
Expect to encounter poison ivy! We recommend wearing long socks and having a bag for your socks and shoes in the car to take home and wash with soap and water.
Having a bottle of Dawn in your car to soap up your legs after a run in the summer is also a great idea to help prevent the oil from poison ivy being absorbed into your skin.
You might want to consider camping overnight at Kitche Manitou overnight to save yourself a long morning drive, like our run leader.
TRED Group Run
When: 5:45 pm meet up, 6:00 pm welcome and run, ~6:30ish pm social hour
Where: Westview Park, meet at the north face of the hill
The run: Garbage Hill has something for everyone. We’ll play on the single-track, the sledding hill, the gravel path, and heck, we’ll even run on the road a bit. The idea behind picking Garbage Hill is that there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for some intense vert gains or you’re new to trails and hills, we can all run together-ish.
Apres run: After the run, please join us for some social time to connect and chat with new and old friends over snacks and a cold drink. We’ll provide snacks and cold drinks for our kick-off run to share with you picnic-style. Please feel free to bring a snack to share, as well!
We’re super excited to be part of the TRED (Trail. Run. Explore. Dream) North American Tour of group runs this summer, sponsored by The North Face.
This is the FIFTH in a series of 13 urban group runs in the summer of 2024. Each Wednesday between July 3 and September 25, we’ll host a weekly group run at Garbage Hill, where we can’t wait to share miles and smiles with you. We also have weekly prizes from The North Face to give away.
After the run, please join us for some social time to connect and chat with new and old friends over snacks and a cold drink. This week, we’ll head to Oxus after the run for a cold beverage (they’ll have both beer and non-alcoholic drinks available).
Each run is co-hosted by at least two MATR volunteers.