The Talon Trail Race

Welcome to The Talon Trail Races Presented by BackRoads Brews + Shoes!

Race Day:

Saturday, October 3, 2026

Race Experience

• Location: Discover one of Southwestern Ontario's hidden trail systems as you wind through mature forests, river valleys, technical singletrack and scenic countryside along the Ausable River.
• Challenge: Whether you're chasing a new challenge, racing for a podium, or enjoying a walk through nature with friends and family, Talon Trail Races is designed to be an unforgettable fall trail running experience.

Why You'll Love Talon Trail Races

• Beautiful Trails: Experience stunning singletrack through Joany's Woods and Mystery Falls.
• Technical Balance: Navigate technical trails balanced with runnable sections.
• Post Race Celebration: Enjoy a beverage garden to unwind after your race.
• Inclusions: Receive a race shirt and enjoy local food vendors.

Race Overview

Participants can choose from four unique distances designed to suit a range of abilities and goals. The signature 26 km point-to-point course will offer a rewarding journey through diverse and scenic terrain taking runners from Mystery Falls to Joany’s Woods.

For those looking for shorter distances, Joany’s Woods will host three looped options: a 3.3 km walk, a 7.7 km walk/run, and an 11 km run combining both loops. These routes all begin and end at the same main gathering area, creating an energetic and welcoming atmosphere for participants and spectators alike.

More than just a race, this event is rooted in purpose. Every registration helps support the Thames Talbot Land Trust and Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority, organizations working to protect the natural landscapes you'll experience on race day.

Don't miss the fun party at the end to celebrate a great day of running or walking. After finishing your race, check out the beverage garden where we'll be serving beer and non-alcoholic beverages along with food from local vendors.

Included in Each Registration

• Event T-shirt: Get a custom event race T-shirt.
• Aid Stations: Replenish at stations with water and snacks.
• Finish Time: Official finish time for 7.7km, 11km and 26k participants.
• Beverage Included: Enjoy one post-race beverage from the BackRoads beer garden.

Event Information

Parking will be at the West Williams Community Centre (32217 Kerwood Rd, Parkhill, ON, N0M 2K0). To ensure participant safety and protect the trail system, all participants, volunteers and spectators must park at this location. Complimentary shuttle buses will transport everyone to and from the trails throughout the morning.

Bus Shuttle Schedule

• 8:00 AM: Shuttle buses will leave to bring runners to Mystery Falls.
• 9:00 AM: Shuttle buses will leave to bring participants to Joany's Woods.
• 9:30 AM: Shuttle buses will leave to bring family, friends and spectators to Joany's Woods.
• 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM: Shuttle buses back to West Williams from Joany's Woods will leave at 30-minute intervals.

Refund Policy

All race registrations are final and non-refundable. Please ensure you are able to participate on race day before completing your registration. While refunds are not available, registration transfers to another participant may be permitted up to September 18th. Please contact us for details.

More Information

For more details on the race, please visit The Talon Trail Race.