Are you looking for your next challenge? Then this article is for you! Sports events are popping up all over Lanaudière, and it's time to take part in one of the races featured here. Endurance, agility, obstacles, speed: that's what awaits you at any of these events.
Whether with family, friends, or coworkers, here are six great opportunities to push your limits and surpass yourself in Lanaudière. Running and adrenaline junkies, discover the races you must participate in this summer and fall in Lanaudière.
COOL DAD RACE | JULY 4 AND AUGUST 1, 2026
The Cool Dad Race is an obstacle course designed for the whole family, taking place on July 4 and August 1, 2026, in Saint-Calixte. With two courses, 1.5 km and 3 km, everyone can participate according to their level and, above all, their desire to have fun! The event's mission is simple: to get families moving, provoke laughter, and have fun in the mud and foam. Parents and children can take part in family starts for an accessible and enjoyable sporting experience.
EXTREME RACE: DEND END RACE | JULY 12, 2026
The Extreme Race will take place on July 12, 2026, in Saint-Calixte and features an impressive obstacle course that has been attracting challenge seekers for several years. With more than 40 obstacles spread over three distances—3 km, 6 km, and 9 km—this event, open to participants aged 7 and up, promises a good dose of adrenaline.
The course passes through various iconic zones such as the Dunes Zone, the Falls Zone, and the Electric Zone, where you can tackle some of the biggest obstacles in Canada. Since 2014, more than 20,000 participants have taken up the challenge and tested their strength, balance, agility, and endurance.
Two types of waves are available. The Elite wave is for the most competitive runners, with mandatory obstacles, a timing chip, and even the possibility of qualifying for the OCR World Championships (OCRWC). The Open wave allows everyone to enjoy the course at their own pace, with fun obstacles and family starts so they can experience it together.
No matter your level, the goal remains the same: push yourself, have fun, and cross the finish line with a smile.
CROSS-COUNTRY ZEN’NATURE | AUGUST 22, 2026
On August 22, head to Saint-Zénon to take part in Cross-Country Zen’Nature, a running and walking event open to everyone. Several distances are available so that everyone can take on a challenge that suits them: 500 m, 2 km, 5 km, 10 km, 20 km, and even 30 km. Companies can also participate in the Défi-Entreprise with their teams for a unique team-building activity. The courses take place in the heart of the Lanaudière forest, in a spectacular natural setting that makes the experience even more memorable.
AZIMUT XC | SEPTEMBER 26, 2026
The Azimut XC is a must-see event for trail running enthusiasts. The event will be held on September 26 in Notre-Dame-des-Prairies and offers a variety of courses adapted to different levels. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced trail runner, you can enjoy dynamic courses through the region's trails and natural landscapes. It's an excellent opportunity to extend the outdoor running season and discover the magnificent trails of Lanaudière.
MORDUS D’LA TRAIL | OCTOBER 11, 2026
On October 11, 2026, Rawdon will host the 6th edition of Mordus d’la trail, a must-see event for nature running enthusiasts. The event takes place on the magnificent Kinadapt site, a perfect playground for a sporting adventure in the heart of Lanaudière.
On the program: day and night trail races that allow you to experience the event in different atmospheres. Several disciplines are offered so that everyone can find a challenge that suits them, including trail running without dogs, canicross, bikejoring, and even dog scootering, a new addition this year.
Whether you're a novice or an experienced runner, young or old, everyone is welcome to participate in this friendly event. In addition to the races, you can enjoy on-site kiosks, a campground, and great conversations around the campfire, the perfect atmosphere for sharing your passion for the outdoors with other trail enthusiasts.
No matter your level or your favorite type of challenge, the races presented here are all opportunities to get moving, push yourself, and enjoy memorable moments in Lanaudière. Whether you love mud, forest trails, or are simply looking for a sporting activity to share with family or friends, there’s a race for you.
So, lace up your sneakers, gather your friends, and get ready to take on a new challenge! And if you want to discover even more sporting, cultural, or culinary events to enjoy in the region, take a look at the Lanaudière events calendar to plan your next getaway. Lanaudière truly has everything to appeal to action and outdoor enthusiasts.
