The Howling Ghost Trail Race
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The Howling Ghost Trail Race
The Howling Ghost Trail Race takes place on September 26, 2026 at the Springwater Conservation Area in Aylmer, Ontario. This is the fourth edition of the event.
Available races include:
- New Era Grafix 8k
- Always Moving 16k
- BackRoads Brews + Shoes 24k
- Structural Panels Inc. Night Howl 8k
- Day/Night combined options
Runners complete one, two, or three loops of the 8k course depending on the distance chosen. The course runs through Carolinian forest; trails are mostly wide, groomed, and described as very runnable. Headlamps are mandatory for the night 8k.
Timing is provided by Chiptime Results and the timing chip is attached to the bib. An aid station is located near the start/finish/interloop area with hydration and food options; runners will reach aid approximately every 8 km and there is an on-course hydration station. The event is cupless so participants should bring a personal cup or bottle. Public washrooms are available at the start/finish area.
Day race entrants receive a combed cotton long sleeve tee and night race entrants receive a Howling Ghost toque; all finishers receive a custom medal with different colours for day and night. Race photos are provided free to download. Awards are given to top finishers in each gender category provided there are at least three runners in that category.
A portion of proceeds will be donated to the Children's Health Foundation; the runner who raises the most receives a free entry to the next Howling Ghost. There is a costume contest with credits awarded to best individual and best group; the bib must remain visible and the participant must run in costume to be eligible.
The event has applied for sanctioning by Athletics Ontario. Camping is available at Springwater. The refund policy states there are no refunds, but race credits are issued for withdrawals before or after August 26 under specified conditions; there are no bib transfers. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
