This B.C. trail race sold out in five hours

When registration opened on Nov.7 for the 2026 edition of Alpenglow 100, the entry platform barely had time to warm up. All three distances closed within five hours, and the 38-km option sold out in seven minutes. That lightning pace dwarfs last year’s 60-hour sell-out, and it is obvious Alpenglow 100 has become a hot ticket.

A familiar face behind a new landmark

The event is produced by Coast Mountain Trail Running (CMTR), led by co-directors Gary Robbins and Geoff Langford. CMTR is best known for building some of B.C.’s most established trail events, including Squamish 50, and for creating races that balance demanding mountain courses with strong community support.

For six years, CMTR staged Whistler Alpine Meadows (WAM), which began in 2016 and grew into one of the country’s standout mountain races. When the event was cancelled in early 2023, a decision that unfolded alongside a dispute involving Whistler Blackcomb resort and the launch of Ultra Trail Whistler by UTMB. By then, Robbins and Langford had already started looking elsewhere in B.C. for terrain that could support a new, sustainable mountain-running experience.

Why the rush to register?

This year’s inaugural Alpenglow 100 gathered around 400 runners across the distances, offering high mountain ridges, serious vert and stunning views of the Rockies, Cariboos and Monashees. A strong first impression set the stage. For 2026, the field will be even broader, with runners coming from nine Canadian provinces and territories, seven U.S. states and overseas. Women now make up 52.5 per cent of the roster—the highest number of female participants in a CMTR race to date.

More than just running

Part of Alpenglow 100’s appeal comes from the way CMTR combines demanding mountain courses with a well-supported, community-minded race environment, something runners already recognize from events like Squamish 50. At Whiskey Fill Farm, which hosts both the start and finish, the atmosphere shifts once the day’s racing wraps up. Runners, volunteers and locals come together for an end-of-weekend celebration featuring a farmer’s market, live music, food trucks and awards ceremonies.

Looking ahead

Hoping to still soak in the trail vibes at the 2026 event? While you won’t be able to don a bib in 2026,  you can still show up and help out. Volunteer slots open on Jan. 1.

To learn more about Alpenglow 100, head here.