Abbotsford Trail Running Club: Fostering Community on British Columbia's Trails
In 2016, a group of passionate trail running enthusiasts in Abbotsford, British Columbia, saw an opportunity to build something enduring. They aimed to create more than just a running group; they envisioned a community that would share the joy of exploring the region's extensive trail system. This idea led to the formation of the Abbotsford Trail Running Club, an organization dedicated to bringing people together, promoting a healthy lifestyle, and caring for the natural spaces they cherish.
The club's guiding principle is reflected in its clear and direct mission statement: "To promote fitness and community through trail running and to advocate for our local nature trails." This three-part approach influences all of the club's activities. The focus on "fitness" is supported by regular, structured runs, while "community" is fostered through social events and an inclusive atmosphere. Importantly, their commitment to "advocacy" positions them as protectors of their local environment, working to maintain and safeguard the very trails they enjoy. The club was founded as a collective effort and continues to operate with a strong emphasis on shared goals rather than on individual founders.
A core principle of the Abbotsford Trail Running Club is giving back to the community it calls home. The club actively organizes and takes part in fun community events aimed at supporting local charities that share their goals. This dedication is most evident through their strong backing of the Run for Water, a major local charity event that raises funds to provide clean drinking water to communities in need. By encouraging their members to participate and volunteer, ATRC shows that their passion for running can be a powerful force for positive change.
ATRC maintains a busy and diverse schedule to meet the different needs and skill levels of its members. The club hosts weekly social trail runs on Monday and Thursday evenings, which form the core of their regular activities. In addition to these runs, they offer more specialized sessions to ensure everyone feels included. This includes a ladies-only run on the first Tuesday of each month and a dedicated newbie run on the third Tuesday, offering a comfortable entry point for beginners. To support runner development further, the club also organizes various trail running clinics, covering everything from beginner basics to intermediate techniques for navigating difficult terrain.
The Abbotsford Trail Running Club is a formal organization that offers memberships to runners interested in joining their community. Becoming a member grants access to all club activities, clinics, and the benefits of running with a supportive group of like-minded individuals.
As a club dedicated to trail running, ATRC leverages Abbotsford’s diverse natural terrain, using the region’s mountain trail systems as their main playground. Members often explore Sumas Mountain, where a wide network of trails includes challenging climbs, technical sections, and sweeping views of the Fraser Valley. The Ledgeview Trails in the McMillan area are another popular spot, offering a maze of well-kept paths suitable for training runs of all skill levels. For those looking for a more relaxed outing, Matsqui Trail Regional Park features flatter, scenic routes along the Fraser River, making it an ideal choice for easygoing runs immersed in nature.