To ensure a safe, enjoyable, and memorable event, it’s critical that your team is prepared to spend a full day in the mountains.
The Banff Jasper Relay travels through two of Canada’s most spectacular national parks — where mountain weather is unpredictable and can change rapidly. You might start a stage in shorts under warm sunshine and finish running through sleet or snow at the summit.
Be ready for anything!
⚠️ Important
There is no cell phone coverage on approximately 90% of the course.
Please plan accordingly — teams must be self-sufficient and prepared for remote mountain conditions.
High-Visibility Vests
All runners and support personnel must wear a Class 1, 2, or 3 high-visibility vest at all times (see Race Rules for details).
15-person teams: provided with 4 vests
9- and 6-person teams: provided with 2 vests
Additional vests are required if you have support crews on both phases.
👉 Order extra vests during registration, or purchase additional vests here.
🐻 Bear Spray Requirement
All runners must carry bear spray with them (and have it easily accessible) while running.
This is a mandatory Parks Canada requirement.
How It Works:
Passing Bear Spray: Teams may share one can per phase by handing it off at each exchange point whenever possible.
Forced-Start Runners: Any runner starting independently must have their own can of bear spray.
Stay alert, stay visible, and be prepared on course.
🎥 Watch: How to Use Bear Spray (YouTube)
🧰 Required Equipment Checklist
Team Items
Parks Canada vehicle pass (see Race Rules)
First Aid kit
Race numbers & pins (provided at the Captains Meeting)
Plenty of water — no water stations on course
Ice and coolers
Food & snacks (for before, during, and after running)
Runner Gear
Rain gear and warm layers
Full change of clothes after each run
After-race party clothes!
Warm sweater or sweats
Sun hat and toque (for cold weather)
Gloves or mitts
Sunscreen
Optional / Recommended
Equipment bags for S1 and S2 runners (see Race Rules)
Cameras & extra memory cards
Hiking gear for exploring the parks before or after race day
🏔 Be Prepared for the Mountains
The Canadian Rockies are beautiful but unpredictable — come equipped, stay alert, and take care of one another.
A well-prepared team makes for an unforgettable relay experience!