The Défi des Couleurs Simard is a major trail-running and mountain-running event held at Mont-Sainte-Anne during Thanksgiving weekend, from October 9 to 11, 2026. Set against the spectacular backdrop of Québec's fall colours, the event brings together runners of all levels for a weekend of challenging races, outdoor adventure, and scenic mountain trails.
The 2026 edition offers a wide variety of distances and challenges, including a 1 km youth course, 6.5 km, 10 km and 21 km trail races, as well as longer 11 km, 17 km, 26 km, 32 km and 42 km courses. Participants can also take part in a 5 km night trail, where runners and walkers explore the forest with a headlamp, along with mountain-running challenges such as the MSA Vertical and MSA Classic Up & Down.
Beyond the competition, the event is an opportunity to discover Mont-Sainte-Anne during one of the most spectacular times of year. The courses wind through forests, mountain trails and natural landscapes, offering participants colourful scenery and a mix of rolling, technical and challenging terrain.
The 2026 edition will also feature several major competitions, including the Canadian Mountain Running Championships, the final of the Québec Trail Cup and the grand finale of the WMRA Mountain Running World Cup. The event is expected to bring together thousands of participants, from elite athletes to recreational runners.
Whether you're looking to compete, take on a personal challenge, discover trail running, or simply enjoy the incredible autumn scenery, the Défi des Couleurs Simard offers an exciting way to experience Mont-Sainte-Anne and celebrate the colours of the season.