The Elphinstone Ascent

The course itself begins at the Elphinstone Road parking lot, winding its way up through lush greenery to reach the top at the historic Elphinstone Lookout. The terrain is predominantly forested with occasional rocky patches, providing a varied yet manageable challenge for runners of all levels. Distance markers are clearly visible along the route, ensuring that participants can track their progress as they climb higher and higher towards the finish line.
The race starts at 9:00 AM sharp from the Elphinstone Road parking lot in Gibsons. The route offers an elevation gain of about 165 meters (541 feet) over a distance of just under one kilometer, making it a perfect VK challenge for both seasoned climbers and newcomers to the sport. Aid stations are available at key points along the course, ensuring that runners can stay hydrated and fueled as they tackle the steep incline.
On race day, anticipate temperatures around 19.6°C (67°F), with a comfortable feel due to low humidity levels of just over 76%. The morning will bring gentle breezes averaging at about 5.2 km/h, which should not interfere significantly with your pace. However, it’s wise to prepare for the possibility of light drizzle as there is a slight chance of rain in August; therefore, runners are encouraged to wear layers and pack waterproof gear.