All races at the 2026 U SPORTS Cross Country Championship will take place at Christie Lake Conservation Area in Dundas, Ontario.
Christie Lake Conservation Area offers a picturesque natural setting featuring open fields, wooded surroundings and varied terrain. The venue provides a challenging environment for championship-level cross country racing while offering spectators an opportunity to experience Canada's top university runners competing for national titles.
Located just outside Hamilton, Christie Lake is surrounded by the natural beauty of the Niagara Escarpment and is a short drive from McMaster University.
ADDRESS
Christie Lake Conservation Area
1000 Highway 5 West
Dundas, ON L9H 5E2
Website: conservationhamilton.ca
Directions: Christie Lake Conservation Area
EVENT ACCESS
Spectator entry locations and designated access routes will be identified on the official championship venue map.
Spectators are encouraged to arrive early, follow event signage and respect designated competition areas.
Please note that certain sections of the course may be restricted during championship racing to ensure athlete safety and uninterrupted competition.
PARKING
Parking will be available in designated areas at Christie Lake Conservation Area, subject to event-day arrangements and capacity.
Spectators should follow posted signage and directions from championship staff when entering the venue.
Parking fees, accessible parking arrangements and any overflow parking instructions will be confirmed ahead of the championship.
Visitors are encouraged to allow additional travel time due to anticipated championship-day traffic.
COURSE ACCESS
The championship course will be reserved for registered competitors during official racing.
Spectators must remain in designated viewing areas and follow instructions from event personnel when moving around the venue.
Crossing the race course during competition is prohibited unless specifically directed by an event official.
Additional information regarding team warm-up areas, course inspection opportunities and restricted zones will be communicated to participating institutions.
PROHIBITED ITEMS
To ensure a safe and enjoyable championship experience, the following items and activities are prohibited in designated competition and spectator areas:
Outside alcohol and illegal substances
Weapons and fireworks
Amplified noisemakers, including air horns and sirens
Objects that obstruct the race course or spectator sightlines
Throwing objects onto the course
Unauthorized motorized vehicles within competition areas
Unauthorized access to restricted athlete and event operations areas
Additional venue-specific restrictions may apply.
SPECTATOR RULES & REGULATIONS
U SPORTS and its member institutions are committed to creating a safe, comfortable and enjoyable experience for all spectators.
Spectators are required to refrain from:
Unruly, disruptive or illegal behaviour
Interference with competition, including unauthorized course access
Intoxication resulting in irresponsible behaviour
Foul or abusive language and obscene gestures
Verbal or physical harassment of athletes, officials, coaches or other spectators
Obstructing pathways, viewing areas or emergency access routes
Crossing the course during competition without permission
Failing to follow instructions from event staff and officials
Event patrons are responsible for their own conduct and that of their guests.
Championship staff may intervene as necessary to maintain a positive and safe competition environment. Individuals who fail to comply with event regulations may be asked to leave the venue.
We look forward to welcoming athletes, coaches, families and supporters from across Canada to Dundas for an unforgettable day of championship racing at the 2026 U SPORTS Cross Country Championship.
