Spartan Race to impact trails near Heritage Ranch and Gaetz Lakes Sanctuary

City of Red Deer PSA — Residents and trail users are advised that the 2026 Red Deer Spartan Race will take place at Heritage Ranch on Saturday, August 8 and Sunday, August 9.

Five-kilometre and 10-kilometre races will be held within Heritage Ranch, similar to previous years. New this year, the 21-kilometre race on Saturday, August 8 will extend beyond Heritage Ranch and follow Red Deer’s trail system to an area just south of Kerry Wood Nature Centre before returning to Heritage Ranch.

Trail users can expect a significant number of participants along the route, particularly on the paved trail near Gaetz Lakes Sanctuary. Residents are encouraged to:

• use extra caution when travelling through the area
• watch for race participants, event staff and signage
• keep pets leashed and under control
• consider choosing an alternate route during the event