WILDHORSE TRAVERSE 50k

The Wildhorse Traverse 50k is widely regarded as one of British Columbia’s most unique point-to-point ultramarathons, offering a journey through the remote wilderness of the Okanagan region. Scheduled for Saturday, May 2, 2026, the race begins at the upper car park of Bertram Creek Regional Park in Kelowna and concludes in the village of Naramata. This rugged course is designed for runners seeking an epic adventure that prioritizes self-sufficiency and deep immersion in the natural landscape.

The Wildhorse Traverse is defined by its significant vertical gain and diverse terrain. Runners navigate a mix of high-altitude single-track trails and historic infrastructure, providing a comprehensive tour of the regional geography. The point-to-point format ensures that the scenery is constantly evolving throughout the duration of the event.

The Okanagan Valley is a semi-arid region in the southern interior of British Columbia, known for its unique ecosystem and dry, rugged mountains. Kelowna, the starting point, is the region's largest city with a population of approximately 150,000. The finish line in Naramata is a much smaller, scenic community of about 1,600 residents, famous for its orchards and vineyards. Demographically, the Central Okanagan is characterized by a high percentage of residents who prioritize an active, outdoor lifestyle, with a median age of approximately 44. The median household income in the region is roughly CA$82,000.

The local culture is heavily influenced by the Syilx (Okanagan) People, who have inhabited this land for thousands of years. The trails used in the race, such as those through the Myra-Bellevue Provincial Park, are part of a vast network that serves as a cornerstone of the regional identity. For the local community, the Wildhorse Traverse is a celebration of stewardship and wilderness preservation. The race highlights the importance of the Kettle Valley Railway (KVR) corridor, a historic engineering marvel that has been repurposed for recreation, connecting the various communities along the Okanagan Lake.

The Wildhorse Traverse emphasizes self-sufficiency, requiring runners to be well-prepared for the unpredictable nature of the remote backcountry. The event offers panoramic views of Okanagan Lake and the surrounding mountain ranges, rewarding the high elevation effort with some of the most stunning vistas in the province. Because it is a point-to-point race, logistical preparation regarding transport between Kelowna and Naramata is a key component of the athlete experience.

On May 2nd, the runners will transition from the lakeside parkland of Kelowna through high-altitude technical sections before descending into the tranquil environment of Naramata. This event bridges the gap between urban centers and the deep wilderness, fostering a profound respect for the rugged beauty of British Columbia among both local residents and visiting athletes.