The Route
Spanning an epic 110km, the 7 Valleys Ultra is a true test of endurance, resilience, and determination. This spectacular point-to-point route heads deep into the heart of the Lake District through the stunning Langdale Valley before tackling some of the National Park's most rugged and iconic mountain passes.
The route passes within touching distance of England's highest mountain before descending into the legendary Borrowdale Valley, widely regarded as the birthplace of some of the UK's finest fell runners.
Returning towards Ambleside, runners follow the picturesque shores of Grasmere and Rydal Water before climbing to High Street, the highest point on the course. From there, it's north towards Keswick via Sticks Pass and a spectacular loop through the wild Glenderaterra Valley. One final effort is all that stands between you and a well-earned finish.
Timetable
All times provisional
| Fri 25th Sept | |
|---|---|
| 12:00 Registration, Event Village and Kit Check Open | Theatre by the Lake |
| 18:00 13 Valleys Ultra Starts | Lakeside Car Park |
| 21:00 Event Village Closes | Theatre by the Lake |
| 21:00 Registration and Kit Check Closes | Theatre by the Lake |
| Sat 26th Sept | |
|---|---|
| 05:00 Shuttle Buses depart (7 Valleys Ultra) | Lakeside Car Park |
| 05:30 Event Site Open | Waterhead |
| 06:00 7 Valleys Ultra Starts | Waterhead |
| 07:00 Shuttle Buses depart (5 Valleys Ultra) | Lakeside Car Park |
| 08:00 5 Valleys Ultra Starts | Waterhead |
| 09:00 Event Village and Catering Opens | Lakeside Car Park |
| 13:00 *First Finisher 5 Valleys Ultra | Lakeside Car Park |
| 17:30 *First Finisher 7 Valleys Ultra | Lakeside Car Park |
| 18:00 Event Village Closes | Lakeside Car Park |
| 19:00 *First Finisher 13 Valleys Ultra | Lakeside Car Park |
| Sun 27th Sept | |
|---|---|
| 03:15 *Final Finisher 5 Valleys Ultra | Lakeside Car Park |
| 07:00 Registration Opens | Theatre by the Lake |
| 10:00 2 Valleys Trail Starts | Keswick |
| 10:00 *Final Finisher 7 Valleys Ultra | Lakeside Car Park |
| 10:30 Registration Closes | Theatre by the Lake |
| 11:30 *First Finisher 2 Valleys Trail | Lakeside Car Park |
| 16:30 *Final Finisher 13 Valleys Ultra | Lakeside Car Park |
| 18:00 *Final Finisher 2 Valleys Trail | Lakeside Car Park |
| 18:00 Event Village Closes | Lakeside Car Park |
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the route be waymarked?
No, you need to know how to navigate yourself for this distance. Downloadable route files are available to aid navigation using both phones and watches.
Will I need a map?
A map and/or course notes are recommended. Course notes will be made available on the website before the event. Please be aware that due to the nature of the route, certain parts are somewhat complex to navigate, and runners are advised to moderate their speed at these points to ensure the correct path is taken. A sports GPS navigation device is recommended if you have one - GPX files are available to download from the website. We ask that you come prepared to the event with two ways to navigate which you can find here
What is the minimum age for participants?
To enter 7 Valleys Ultra you must be aged 20 or over.
Is there a minimum qualification standard?
No, however we strongly recommend that you have previous ultramarathon experience and are confident running in mountainous terrain. The 7 Valleys Ultra is a challenging route and participants should ensure they are adequately prepared before taking on the event.
Does the event have cut off times?
Yes the event has generous but strict cut off times that will be enforced to ensure the safety of all participants. The cut off time for 7 Valleys Ultra is 28 hours
What is included in the entry fee?
Exclusive finisher medal (a slate coaster + a patch medal)
GPS tracking (Open Tracking)
GPX files
Medical cover
Drop bag service
Food and drinks at each feedstations on the route
Road book containing key navigation notes
Will there be a minimum kit list?
Yes. The minimum kit list can be found on the event information page here. You will need to have this kit with you at registration. The kit list will vary depending on the distance you have entered, and includes both minimum and recommended kit. There will be variations on this list depending on the weather forecast.
Will there be a kit check?
Yes, in advance of taking part in the event there will be a mandatory kit check, where participants will be required to demonstrate they have all of the items specified. GPS trackers will be given out at the kit check. Kit check will be done at the same time as registration on the Friday.
Can I store my bag at the start/finish?
There will be a baggage vehicle at the start line in Waterhead. Please take your drop bag with you to your start line so you can deposit it in a baggage vehicle. From here it will be taken to the Troutbeck feed station for you. Your bag will then be given to you when you cross the line in Keswick.
Are support crews allowed?
We want to do all we can to help you to get around the event and provide 12 well stocked feed stations and a Drop Bag for 13V and 7V participants to give you every chance for your race. If you have any specific requirements outside of these, we ask you to carry them with you. We do not allow support crews to actively move around the route, giving additional nutrition or kit, or taking it off you. We also do not allow support runners to come and run part of the route with you. This is to try and ensure the playing field is as level as possible, and the event is sustainable both from an environmental and social standpoint. It is important we respect the environment and communities we run in.
However we do encourage everyone to support at the relevant feedstations, or where public transport allows. Please remember to respect locals and other users of the trails, especially with regard to noise at night
Will I get penalised for going off course?
We understand that the combination of night-time navigation and sleep depravation can lead to navigational errors on the course. As long as you get back on the route as soon as you realise you're off course you won't be penalised. However if we judge that you've gained a significant competitive advantage by cutting the route short, we do reserve the right to issue a time penalty.