The Community Trail Running podcast is set to take the reins as the host of the Trail Running Film Festival once again in 2026, following its recent accolade as the Outstanding Sports Series at the Canadian Podcast Awards last December. This recognition comes at an exciting time, as organizers prepare for another tour across Western Canada in 2026, and anticipation is building among trail running enthusiasts.
The festival, dedicated to celebrating the culture of trail running through the medium of film and engaging live events, will once again be spearheaded by its founder and host, Adam Lee. Based in Crowsnest Pass, Alberta, Lee has transformed the festival from a simple movie screening into a vibrant community gathering, fostering connections among trail running lovers.
A Cinematic Experience Beyond Film
Since its inception in 2023, the Trail Running Film Festival has successfully hosted 12 screenings across various locations in Western Canada. These events go beyond mere film viewings; they incorporate an array of live entertainment elements. Past festival highlights have included burlesque performances, improvisational comedy, magic acts, live musicians, guest speakers, and even filmmaker appearances.
Audience involvement is a central aspect of the festival’s philosophy. Attendees can participate in interactive activities and games, promoting an environment where engagement is encouraged. Rather than experiencing a conventional screening where audiences sit silently in the dark, the festival aims to craft a lively celebration of trail running culture, drawing hundreds into the collective joy of the event.
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Exploring Western Canada: The 2026 Festival Tour
The Trail Running Film Festival’s 2026 tour will feature a series of stops throughout Western Canada, a region known for its rich trail and ultra-running culture. Planned tour locations include Vancouver, Crowsnest Pass, Canmore, Calgary, and Edmonton, each featuring venues that range from cinemas to ecological interpretive centers.
Trail Running Film Festival Tour Dates for 2026:
- April 2 – Rio Theatre, Vancouver
- May 8 – Frank Slide Interpretive Centre, Crowsnest Pass
- May 12 – artsPlace, Canmore
- May 13 – Calgary (venue to be confirmed)
- May 14 – Garneau Theatre, Edmonton
Ticket prices are set at $30 until December 31, 2025. After this date, advance tickets will be available for $40, and $45 at the door on event days, making it an affordable outing for all trail running fans.
Fostering a Sustainable Community
In addition to showcasing exceptional films, the Trail Running Film Festival aims to create a sustainable support system for filmmakers and the broader outdoor community. This initiative focuses on establishing grants and collaborative projects that facilitate a reciprocal relationship between creators and audiences. The films screened at the festival will emphasize the culture surrounding trail running, weaving in themes of adventure, inclusivity, creativity, and the strong connection to nature.
A Podcast with a Purpose
The Community Trail Running podcast began humbly as a newsletter and has progressively gained traction, earning its first Canadian Podcast Award in 2025. This approximately 20-minute podcast features guests from diverse backgrounds within the trail-running community, aiming to reflect the sport as it vibrantly exists in real life. Adam Lee has expressed pride in this achievement, stating, “It’s a huge accomplishment for us. Our community continues to grow and support this thing, and it’s special to be recognized. We look forward to highlighting the incredible people that make up the trail running community and exploring the future of this initiative.”
For those interested in the festival or the podcast, more information and ticket purchasing options can be found on the festival’s official website here. You can also listen to the Community Trail Running podcast on platforms like Spotify.
