Run Saysutshun 2025 | Nanaimo

Conquer the Sacred Coastal Loop This June

Run Saysutshun 2025 is a premier Vancouver Island trail running event held on Saysutshun (Newcastle Island Marine) Provincial Park just off Nanaimo. Over the weekend of June 13–14, participants tackle a 10 km coastal single-track loop in distances ranging from 10 km to 24-hour ultras, relays and half-marathons. The event blends cultural heritage—honouring the Snuneymuxw sacred training grounds—with modern ultrarunning challenges, supported by full aid stations and group camping. Runners must book ferry transit separately via Newcastle Island’s passenger ferry, which operates every 30 minutes from Maffeo-Sutton Park to Saysutshun. Registration opens through Webscorer, and ferry and camping details are available on BC Parks and Newcastle Island portals.

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Event Overview: Run Saysutshun 2025 Trail Running Event

Run Saysutshun is a loop-style ultramarathon set entirely on Saysutshun Island’s 10 km perimeter trail. Known as “the sacred place,” Saysutshun has long served as a site for physical and spiritual cleansing by the Snuneymuxw people. In 2025, the race returns June 13–14 with five event categories designed for trail runners of all abilities.

Race Categories & Start Times

24-Hour Solo & 12-Hour Night Run

24-Hour Relay (Teams of 4)

12-Hour Day Run

6-Hour & Half-Marathon

10 km Trail Run

Course & Aid Stations

The Run Saysutshun course is a roughly 10 km single-track loop hugging sandstone cliffs, cedar groves and coastal lookouts. Runners complete as many full loops as possible within their time limit; a smaller campground loop is used for final laps to avoid mid-course timing cutoffs. Aid Station: Located at the group campsite start/finish, it offers perogies, bacon, soups, gels, fruit, electrolyte drinks, coffee and more. Secure your supplies tightly—Saysutshun’s raccoons are notorious food thieves.

Registration & Race Fees

• How to Register: Sign up via Webscorer using the “2025 Registration” link on the official site.
• Entry Fees: Vary by distance; include group campsite access but exclude ferry fares.
• Team Relay Registration: Teams of four only; individual registrations must specify team name.

Disclaimer

Vanislander provides information for general reference only. We do not assume responsibility for any changes, cancellations, or modifications made by third parties. For the most up-to-date details, please refer to the official websites or social media channels of the respective organizers or businesses.

Getting There: Saysutshun Ferry & Camping

• Saysutshun Island Ferry Schedule
The Newcastle Island passenger ferry runs every 30 minutes, departing Nanaimo on the hour and half-hour, and leaving Saysutshun at 15 and 45 minutes past the hour. Service resumes May 15 and continues through October 1 each year.
✓ Booking: Required for groups of 12+ via the Newcastle Island portal; individual runners can board without pre-booking.
✓ Fares: Return fares include adult, senior, child and bike rates—pets and pedal bikes welcome for a nominal fee.
• Camping on Saysutshun
Group campsite access is included with race registration; overflow can be booked via BC Parks. Food lockers are provided to protect supplies from wildlife.

Accommodation & Nanaimo Attractions

• Downtown Nanaimo Hotels & B&Bs: A 10 minute drive from Maffeo-Sutton Park.
• Local Highlights:
✓ Petroglyph Park (ancient rock carvings)
✓ Nanaimo Harbour cruises
✓ July’s Nanaimo Bathtub Race
Make it a full Vancouver Island escape by exploring nearby beaches, trails and cultural sites.

Essential Packing & Race-Day Tips

Headlamp & Spare Batteries

Mandatory for night and early-morning loops.

Trail-Specific Footwear & Gaiters

The terrain can be muddy with forest debris.

Hydration Vest & Weather-proof Jacket

Coastal weather is unpredictable.

Raccoon-Proof Gear Bags

Seal all food and fuel to avoid midnight raids.

Personal Nutrition

Carry your preferred gels or bars; aid station supplies are generous but limited.

Environmental Stewardship & Cultural Respect

• Leave No Trace: Carry out all garbage; do not rely on wildlife for cleanup.
• Trail Etiquette: Yield to faster runners, announce overtakes, stay on marked paths.
• Cultural Awareness: Acknowledge Saysutshun as traditional Snuneymuxw territory; engage respectfully with interpretive signage and staff.

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Ready to Run Saysutshun?

Secure your spot in Run Saysutshun 2025, book your ferry, pack your gear and experience Vancouver Island’s most evocative trail running event June 13–14.
Register today on the Run Saysutshun official website

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