TRAIL RUNNING CAMPS IN THE WEST KOOTENAYS
A 3 DAY TRAIL RUNNING RETREAT IN BRITISH COLUMBIA'S SELKIRK MOUNTAINS
Supporting your running objectives + connecting you with your people
This summer, trade the crowds for singletrack.
Our Trail Running Camp in Meadow Creek, BC is a small-group, guided experience designed for runners who want more than just mileage. Expect alpine terrain, technical trails, big views, and the kind of terrain that challenges and inspires.
Built by Grant Flagler, a local runner here in the Kootenays, this is a backcountry-focused running experience rooted in mountain culture, storytelling, and community.
WHAT IS INCLUDED
- 3 days of group runs with technical feedback along the way
- 2 nights at the White Grizzly Lodge
- Private chef and locally sourced meals and snacks
WHAT TO EXPECT
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Guided trail runs on some of the best terrain around Meadow Creek, BC
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Small groups for a personalized experience
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Feedback sessions during and post run (uphill efficiency, downhill flow, general movement, pole use, gear management)
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Daily route variety: forested trails, ridgelines, alpine access
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A supportive, non-competitive environment
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Plenty of time to recover, swim, hot tub and enjoy the surroundings
MEET GRANT
Based in Nelson, BC, Grant is a passionate ultra runner that is keen on exploring new places. Grant is studying in the UESCA ultra running program and will bring principles learned in these courses to our training camps at White Grizzly.
During the summer, Grant splits most of his time between Canada and Europe and enjoys epic Alps adventures while training for longer distance races – Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc and Monte Rosa Walserwaeg are his two major races this season.
During the winter, Grant guides for White Grizzly and Kootenay Backcountry Guides. He lives in Nelson with his wife Chantal and dog turned trail runner.
3 DAYS / 2 NIGHTS CAMP
Sample Itinerary
Day 1 (Foundations)
- 12:00 pm: Meet up in Kaslo or Meadow Creek with a 90min to 2 hours lunch run
- 2:00 pm to 3:30: Late Lunch – Angry Hen Brewery
- 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm: Travel to Lodge
- 4:30 pm to 5:30 pm: Appetizers + welcome
- 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm: Free time/Unpack
- 6:30 pm: Dinner
- 7:30 pm: Fireside Chat – Fuelling for Success – Training & Race Nutrition Planning
Day 2 (Adventure Focus)
- 6:30 am: Breakfast
- 7:30 am: Depart for trailhead – medium distance run in Kaslo or similar (~15km)
- 10:30 am – Return to lodge for lunch/seminar
- 11:30 to 12:15 pm: Early Lunch at lodge
- 12:00 to 1:00 pm: Fireside Chat – Mindset & Motivation
- 1:30pm: Depart for Davis Creek trail – uphill, downhill technique + Pole work to a stunning viewpoint over Kootenay Lake
- 4:00pm: Return to lodge from Davis Creek
- 4:30 pm: Appetizers + social hour
- 6:00 pm: Dinner
- 7:30 pm: Fireside Chat – Community Storytelling Night (Looking back on the 2025 season + plans for 2026)
Day 3 (Long Run Day & Wrap-Up)
- 6:00 am: Early breakfast
- 7:00 am to 12:00 pm: Guided long run ~21-24 km
- 12:30 to 1:30 pm: Lunch + outdoor mobility session at lodge or in field
- 1:30 to 2:00 pm: Closing, group reflection, photos
- 2:30 pm: Departure
Adventure & connection.
Who This Camp Is For
This camp is designed for:
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Road runners looking to transition into trail running
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Trail runners wanting to build confidence in technical or varying terrain
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Intermediate to expert runners seeking a unique mountain experience
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Anyone motivated by movement, nature, and community
This is an inclusive and supportive trail running camp designed to help you achieve your running goals and explore stunning landscapes. Participants should be able to comfortably run and hike 15–20 km with 1,000 m+ of elevation gain (we will be hiking the steeper uphills on our longer runs). If you’re considering signing up but aren’t sure about your current fitness level, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Why Choose White Grizzly for Trail Running
The White Grizzly Lodge is nestled in the old growth forest of Meadow Creek, with access to world-class trails right from the doorstep. It’s also an incredibly cozy place where you’ll be well looked after—this isn’t a hostel, but a true lodge experience, complete with a hot tub and all the amenities you need to relax and recharge.
From the lodge, we can also access incredible alpine terrain for our longer runs. Think the Purcell Mountains, including the iconic Monica Meadows and Jumbo Pass or the more off-the-beaten-path Goat Range.
After your run, take a refreshing swim in Duncan or Kootenay Lake and then unwind in our cozy, timber-frame lodge, with incredible food, and share stories of the day around a fire.
Dates & Pricing
Dates: May 29-31 and October 16-18
Group Size: 8-12 participants
Price: May : $747 (community pilot camp) | October $897
FAQs
What should I bring to the trail running camp?
Nothing unusual—just your running gear and comfortable “lodge” clothing. We’ll send you a detailed equipment list ahead of time.
Do I need trail running experience?
Experience is helpful, but not required. If you’re a road runner looking to transition into trail running, you’re very welcome to join us. We’d just ask that you can comfortably run 15-20km and hike 1000m of elevation gain.
What is the average distance per day?
Distances vary depending on the day. Please refer to the sample itinerary above for details. We run as a group and make sure everyone feels included while still being appropriately challenged.
Is everything included in the price?
Almost everything is included. The only exception is alcoholic beverages, as the White Grizzly Lodge operates under a liquor license.
How far is the camp from Nelson, BC?
The lodge is about a 1.5-hour drive from Nelson. The road is paved the entire way and is in good condition for any vehicle. The only time you hit dirt is after the turnoff to the lodge.
Join Our Trail Running Camp
If you’re looking for a running experience that goes beyond the usual, this is it.
Run wild terrain. Learn new skills. Meet great people.
And experience the mountains from a different perspective.