Mad Trapper Relentless – Trail Races and 50K, 50 Mile Ultra
The Mad Trapper Relentless is a fall ultra and trail race held at The Ark in Denholm, Quebec — just north of Ottawa in the Gatineau Hills. Distances range from 3K to 50 mile, including 21K, 30K, 50K and 50 mile ultra-distance options. Sponsored by Altra, included on the UTMB Index, and now officially ITRA recognized.
Relentless gives trail runners a beautiful, technical, and deceptively hard race experience on private trails at The Ark. Whether you're stepping up to your first half marathon or testing yourself over 50 miles, Relentless is designed to challenge you without rushing you. There are no cutoff times. If you’re still moving, we’re still waiting.
The Trails
True single-track through the Gatineau Hills. Twists, turns, roots, rocks, ups, and downs. Peak fall colours at their brightest.
Distances for Every Runner
- Family-friendly 3K & 5K
- 10K, 21K and 30K for new and experienced runners
- 50K & 50 Miles for those who want the ultimate challenge
After the Race
Legendary post-race BBQ prepared by Monique. A warm, welcoming community atmosphere. Celebrate your effort with friends old and new.
Why Relentless?
- Canada’s longest-running trail race series (since 2002)
- Trails that challenge you and scenery that inspires you
- Distances for all levels — from first-timers to seasoned ultra runners
RUNNERS..... Choose Your Distance!
- 3k "Try a Trail": Newbie friendly with some elevation change and a mix of technical single track and double track. 10am Start.
- 5k "Mad" Course: A single loop of twisty-turny single track with some elevation gain and a flat section. 10am Start.
- 10k "Crazed" Course: A single loop with a bit of everything, including a "mountain climb". 10am Start.
- 21k of "Insanity": Two loops of the 10.5k Crazed Course, including the long climb and downhill cruise twice. 8am Start.
- 30k "Hybrid": Starts with an 18k undulating gravel road loop, followed by a 10.5 km single track course. 8am Start.
- 50k "Ultra": Begins with an 18k gravel road prologue, then tackles 3 loops of the 10.5k of Insanity course, with over 1000 feet of elevation change. 7am Start.
- 50 Miler: A hybrid race with a point-to-point start, shuttled 31 km north to Kazabazua, running the flat, non-technical Trans Canada Trail back to The Ark.
Free tent camping is available for registered racers at The Ark, which includes flat tenting areas, clean outhouses, a firepit, a picnic table, and drinking water. Warm outdoor showers are available for a small fee.