Stories from the Trails: Monod's Community Runs Support Wellbeing
There’s something special about sharing a trail with a friend—especially here in Banff National Park. It’s those hikes or runs where no one’s checking their pace, no one’s competing, and everyone’s just happy to be outside together.
Banff is known around the world for its peaks, trails, and postcard-worthy views. But for those who live here amidst this beautiful landscape, it’s those everyday moments like trail chats and shared sunrises that make this place feel like home.
That spirit is what sparked “The Locals Loop”, the new monthly community run facilitated by Monod Sports, a locally-owned outdoor clothing and equipment retailer. It’s a simple idea with a big heart: bring community together to move, connect, and put wellbeing first.
Local initiatives like Monod’s The Locals Loop reflect how localsare committed to empowering a thriving, vibrant community with a high quality of life in a tourism town.
That’s what led Josh Segeleski, Marketing Manager at Monod Sports and a trail runner himself, to start The Locals Looplast summer.
“Banff can often feel like a stop-through town,” Josh says. “I wanted something that gave locals a reason to gather — something I’d want to show up to myself. With Monod’s long history here, it felt important to carry that forward and create something that really belongs to the community.”
Monod Sports has been part of Banff for more than 75 years, helping generations of locals and visitors gear up for the mountains. Launching The Locals Loop felt like a natural extension of that history — it’s not about selling gear but about building connections and contributing to a community where people feel supported, engaged, and proud to call Banff home.
A run for everyone
From the beginning, Josh knew this wasn’t going to be a race. There are no bibs, no stopwatches, no finish-line speeches. Just a trail, a group, and an open invite.
“Trail running is growing fast, but it can feel like it’s becoming all about numbers and performance,” Josh says. “The Locals Loop is meant to cut through that and go back to the roots of running. It’s about sharing a good trail, feeling that energy with others, and knowing you belong out there no matter how hard you’re pushing.”
That approach has drawn a mix of people you wouldn’t always see together: longtime locals, newcomers still settling in, seasonal staff, and even a few visitorswho happened to hear about it. Some show up for a light recovery jog. For others, it’s the longest run they’ve ever done.
“That range is the beauty of it,” Josh says. “Moving side by side takes the pressure off introductions. You’re both in motion, sharing the same effort, and conversation flows more naturally.”
I wanted something that gave locals a reason to gather...With Monod’s long history here, it felt important to carry that forward and create something that really belongs to the community.
Josh Segeleski, Marketing Manager at Monod Sports
The runs are about wellbeing as much as fitness. For Josh, that’s always been a big part of running.
“It’s where I can clear my head, work through stress, or just put it aside for a while,” he says. “Doing that in a group only makes it stronger. Even if you’re not talking the whole time, you feel connected to the people around you.”
That’s especially important in a destination where world-class athletes often set the tone. “It can be intimidating if you don’t see yourself in that category,” Josh says. “By keeping it casual, welcoming, and even dog-friendly, we’re opening the door for everyone. It’s about creating space that might not have felt accessible otherwise.”
Finding belonging
After only a couple of runs, the feedback has been clear. People – including some of Monod’s own seasonal staff, many of whom are still finding their place in Banff – leave asking when the next one will be.
“That, to me, is a good sign we’re doing something worthwhile,” Josh says. “If people walk away already looking forward to the next one, it means the runs are hitting the right note.”
Looking ahead
The Locals Loop is still new, but interest is growing. Josh is quick to say he doesn’t want it to turn into something bigger than it needs to be.
“If we try to make it grander, there’s a risk of losing sight of the goal,” he says. “These runs are for the people — we’re just facilitating that.”
That doesn’t mean it won’t evolve. Winter versions are already being requested, and small shifts may happen as the seasons change. But the heart of it will stay the same: welcoming, simple, and community driven!
Building a stronger community together
Even in its first season, The Locals Loop has shown how a simple idea can make a big difference. It’s a reminder that wellbeing isn’t only about fitness — it’s about belonging, connection, and having spaces that feel like they’re for you.
By putting people first, Monod Sports is helping make Banff a healthier, more connected place to live and visit. It’s one more way the town’s retail sector is showing how to Lead Tourism for Good.
Stay updated on when the next Locals Loop is happening on Monod's social media.
We asked Josh “What does ‘Lead Tourism for Good’ mean to you?”
“It’s about making sure tourism strengthens, rather than strains, the communities that host it,” he says. “In small mountain towns like Banff, the pace of tourism can overshadow local life. The Locals Loop helps balance that out — giving residents a space to connect while also welcoming visitors into what makes this place special.”