Running in the Canadian Rockies
The Banff Jasper Relay takes place through remote mountain terrain in Banff and Jasper National Parks. Mountain weather can change quickly, and teams should be prepared for sun, rain, wind, cold temperatures, snow or mixed precipitation, and rapidly changing conditions.
Our goal is to safely continue the event whenever possible while ensuring runners, volunteers, and support crews are prepared and making smart decisions.
Team Support & Responsibility
Unlike a traditional road race, Banff Jasper Relay runners are supported by their teammates throughout the event. Teams are responsible for monitoring and supporting their runners.
- Monitor changing weather conditions
- Ensure runners are dressed appropriately
- Carry extra clothing and supplies
- Provide hydration and nutrition
- Watch for signs of distress
- Prioritize safety over finishing time
Team captains have the authority to delay, substitute, or remove a runner if conditions become unsafe. After completing a leg, runners should not be left unattended until they are warm, dry, recovered, and feeling well.
Team Vehicle Checklist
- Warm jackets
- Dry clothing
- Gloves / toque
- Rain shell
- Blanket or emergency layer
- First aid supplies
- Extra food
- Extra water & electrolytes
- Phone charger / power bank
- Flashlight / headlamp
When unsure — bring the extra layer.
Weather Advisory System
🟢 GREEN — Normal Mountain Conditions
Typical conditions: 5°C to 25°C, light rain, light wind.
Race proceeds normally.
- Monitor runners
- Have dry clothing available
- Be prepared for changing conditions
🟡 YELLOW — Increased Weather Awareness
Conditions may include temperatures near 0°C to 5°C, rain/snow mix, moderate wind, wind chill near freezing, or hot conditions requiring extra hydration.
Race continues with increased awareness.
- Have gloves available
- Have a toque or head covering available
- Have a wind or waterproof layer available
- Meet your runner immediately at exchanges
- Remove wet clothing and provide warm/dry layers
- Monitor recovery
Watch for:
- Severe shivering
- Confusion
- Loss of coordination
- Unusual behaviour
🟠 ORANGE — Extreme Conditions
Conditions may include below-freezing temperatures, heavy wet snow, strong winds, poor visibility, or extreme heat.
Race officials may hold runners, delay starts, modify sections, or adjust procedures.
- Increase runner monitoring
- Check runners frequently
- Keep support vehicles prepared
- Be prepared to adjust team plans
🔴 RED — Race Modification / Stop
A race modification or stop may occur due to unsafe highway conditions, severe storm or lightning, wildfire or smoke, dangerous air quality, or limited emergency access.
Race officials, Parks Canada, or RCMP may modify or stop portions of the event. Teams must follow official instructions.
Limited Cell Service
The Banff Jasper Relay travels through remote sections of Highway 93 where cellular service is limited or unavailable. Teams should not rely on receiving real-time updates.
Important information may be communicated through:
- Exchange volunteers
- Race vehicles
- Event officials
If no updates are received, teams must use current conditions, runner condition, team judgement, and official instructions provided before the event.
Safety Comes First
The Banff Jasper Relay celebrates teamwork, adventure, and running through one of the most beautiful mountain environments in the world.
Respect the mountains. Look after your teammates. Make smart decisions.
No result or split time is worth risking the health of a participant.