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5 Valleys Ultra: The 58km Lake District Ultra Marathon
Don't let the distance fool you, this is a brutal and breath taking introduction to mountain running in the heart of the Lake District. The 5 Valleys Trail is a non-stop assault of technical terrain, steep climbs and jaw-dropping descents, offering a pure, concentrated dose of the Lakeland experience.
Part of the iconic 13 Valleys Ultra weekend, this ultramarathon packs the challenge of a much longer event into a relentless 58km course. It’s the perfect, albeit demanding, race for experienced trail runners looking to take on their first true mountain ultra.
Course
The numbers speak for themselves. The 58.4km (36.3 mile) route features a formidable 2,303m of elevation gain. This is a race won and lost on the climbs. The course will take you on a journey through five stunning valleys, over classic Lakeland passes, and across terrain that is as unforgiving as it is beautiful.
This is not a runnable, manicured trail ultra. Expect steep, rocky ascents where you’ll be reduced to a power hike, and technical descents that demand your full concentration. Your reward is access to some of the most epic views in the UK and an incredible sense of achievement when you cross the finish line in Keswick.
While there are no specific pre-requisite races required for entry, the organisers are clear: this is not an ultramarathon for novices. Participants should be experienced and confident trail runners, comfortable with navigating challenging, technical terrain in potentially adverse weather conditions. Hill strength, resilience, and a solid nutrition plan are essential for success.
For more full details, including mandatory kit and registration info, please visit the official 5 Valleys Ultra website.
