Capes 100 2026

The Capes 100 is a renowned trail running event held in Mabou, Nova Scotia, and is celebrated as the first 100-mile trail race in Atlantic Canada. The 2026 edition is scheduled for August 7–9 and continues the tradition of challenging runners with its rugged and scenic courses. The event is designed to showcase the dramatic landscapes of Cape Breton, including the Mabou Highlands and the Atlantic coastline, offering participants a unique and memorable running experience.

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Runners can choose from three demanding distances: 46 km, 87 km, and the signature 160 km (100 mile) ultra. Each course is carefully crafted to highlight the region’s natural beauty, with routes traversing highland vistas, coastal trails, beaches, streams, and open fields. The Capes 100 is not only a test of endurance and skill but also a celebration of community, drawing together athletes, volunteers, and local residents in a vibrant and supportive atmosphere.

The Capes 100 courses are a mix of gravel/jeep roads, singletrack and doubletrack trails, with minimal pavement and some sandy beach sections. The 46 km course features 53% gravel/jeep roads, 38% singletrack/doubletrack, and 9% pavement, with over 2,000 meters of elevation gain. The 87 km course is 51% gravel/jeep roads, 36% singletrack/doubletrack, 12% pavement, and 1% sandy beach, with over 3,000 meters of elevation gain. The 160 km (100 mile) course is 53% gravel/jeep roads, 40% singletrack/doubletrack, 6.5% pavement, and 0.5% sandy beach, with a challenging elevation gain of over 5,900 meters. Runners will encounter technical sections, steep climbs, and breathtaking views throughout the event.

• First 100-mile trail race in Atlantic Canada
• Three distances: 46 km, 87 km, and 160 km (100 miles)
• Courses traverse the Mabou Highlands and Atlantic coastline
• Significant elevation gain: up to 5,900 meters for the 160 km
• Diverse terrain: gravel roads, singletrack, doubletrack, pavement, and sandy beach
• Strong community involvement and support
• Scheduled for August 7–9, 2026