Craving a new running adventure? The Big Canada Run is back

If you’ve been looking to embrace your full Canadian, this is your chance. The Big Canada Run returns in July for its sixth edition, giving you the perfect excuse to check off that bucket-list “cross-nation” trip. Beginning on July 1–Canada Day–Canadians will have one year to walk, run or hike with their teams, covering 8,000, 10,000 or 18,000 kilometres in a virtual fitness challenge spanning the entire country.

Whether you take it on with family, colleagues, running friends or as a solo effort, The Big Canada Run is a one-of-a-kind adventure. The meaningful event celebrates movement, encourages stronger connections and fosters national pride.

Logging mileage, made easy

Launched in 2020, The Big Canada Run has already seen participants log more than 1o million kilometres. It’s easy to join in–an innovative tracking platform syncs with popular fitness apps and devices, allowing participants to easily log mileage from anywhere in the world, while keeping tabs on their team’s progress.

And even if you’re not sightseeing in person, The Big Canada Run’s interactive map lets you “visit”  some of the nation’s most iconic landmarks virtually as you progress–earning virtual trading cards and learning fun facts along the way.

More than a fitness challenge, The Big Canada Run combines physical activity and a sense of togetherness, supporting two powerful pillars of mental health.

The 3 iconic routes

When the 2025 challenge kicks off on July 1, participants will have one full year to log their kilometres to complete their chosen route. Teams can be as big or small as you like–and running, hiking or walking all count toward your goal. Choose from three routes:

Classic Leg #1: The original 8,000-km route from St. John’s to Victoria

Way-Back Leg #2: 10,000-km route starting in Victoria, stretching up to Whitehorse and ending on the coast of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Maple Challenge: The ultimate 18,000-km option, combining Legs #1 and #2 and passing through 26 iconic Canadian cities.

Supporting charities, earning swag

When participants complete their chosen route, they’ll receive Big Canada Run swag and a custom medal–a keepsake showcasing true Canadian hallmarks, team mileage and a sense of accomplishment that will last a lifetime.

Since its launch, The Big Canada Run has raised more than C$125,000 for Canadian charities, supporting organizations such as the CHEO Foundation (an Ottawa-based children’s charity and hospital) and Alberta’s Discovery House, which assists women and children fleeing domestic violence. 

The event also supports Canadian brands, features exciting giveaways with amazing products and gives participants the chance to offer additional support.

Sign up today!

Ready to take on a meaningful challenge and give back? Registration is only C$79 for the Classic Leg #1, $84 for the Way Back Leg or $139 for the Maple Challenge. Plus, Canadian Running readers get 10 per cent off with the code CANRUN10.

Click here to sign up or learn more.