Making the transition from city running to trail running is about to get a little more accessible thanks to the Arc'teryx Groundwork city-to-trail running program that's being launched this summer. The program is launching in Montreal, New York, Los Angeles and Portland at the same time, and will offer an eight-week experience that incorporates structured training plans along with weekly community runs, expert guidance and educational coaching. The program will also offer registered participants with a pair of the Arc'teryx Norvan LD 4 long-distance trail shoe to provide peace of mind that they're ready for a summer full of trail training.
The Arc'teryx' Groundwork city-to-trail running program is open now for 150 participants in each location for $115 and will be running from June 10 to August 8, 2026.
City-to-Trail Running Programs
The Arc'teryx' Groundwork Program is Running This Summer
Trend Themes
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Urban-to-trail Onboarding — Structured bridges between pavement running and trail skills create room for brands to convert urban athletes into outdoor consumers through hybrid coaching, local routes, and product trials.
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Gear-inclusive Training — Bundled access to specialized footwear and guided programming lowers entry barriers while positioning equipment as part of a service-based fitness experience.
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Community-led Outdoor Coaching — Local group runs, expert instruction, and education-based formats turn recreational training into a scalable community platform for loyalty, data, and repeat engagement.
Industry Implications
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Outdoor Apparel — Performance brands gain new ways to extend beyond product sales by embedding apparel and footwear into coached lifestyle programs.
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Fitness Services — Running programs that blend training plans, group accountability, and terrain-specific education expand the market for experiential fitness beyond gyms and studios.
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Urban Recreation — City-based access to trail preparation highlights opportunities for municipalities, retailers, and wellness operators to connect urban residents with nearby outdoor ecosystems.