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Lake District · September 2026

Altra 13 Valleys Ultra

An epic multi-distance ultra event linking all 13 unique valleys of the Lake District National Park — a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Starting and finishing in Keswick.

4 Distances
22km to 180km
7,000m+
13V Elevation
Keswick
Start & Finish
Sept 2026
25-27 Sep

The Distances

2 Valleys Trail

22.4km · Fully waymarked. Starting and finishing in Keswick, taking in 2 valleys. Open to all abilities.

Beginner Friendly

5 Valleys Ultra

55km · Starting at Waterhead, Ambleside and finishing in Keswick through 5 valleys. 3 feed stations.

ITRA 3 Points

7 Valleys Ultra

110km · Same start as 5 Valleys but with an additional central loop. Official Western States qualifier.

Western States Qualifier

13 Valleys Ultra

180km · Starting Friday evening in Keswick. The full loop of all 13 Lake District valleys. Self-qualification required.

ITRA 6 Points

About the Race

The 13 Valleys Ultra celebrates the 13 unique valleys of the Lake District National Park. The event is run in partnership with the Lake District National Park — 5% of entry fees go to Fix the Fells to protect the Lakeland fells from erosion. Based in Keswick and running across some of the most spectacular terrain in England, this is one of the most scenic ultra events in the UK.

Key Facts

  • All distances finish in Keswick — a great event village for supporters
  • The 13V and 7V are official Western States Endurance Run qualifier races
  • The 13V (180km) is NOT waymarked — GPX file required, strong navigation skills essential
  • The 5V and 2V are fully waymarked
  • Mandatory kit required for all ultra distances
  • 2026 edition: 25-27 September 2026
  • All ultra distances SOLD OUT for 2026 — sign up for 2027 reminders

Preparation Tips

Navigation for the 13V

The 180km course is not waymarked. You must be confident with GPX navigation in challenging conditions, including overnight and in bad weather. Practice thoroughly before race day.

Volume & Back-to-Backs

The 7V and 13V require serious ultra training volume. Include back-to-back long runs and overnight training in your build-up. Don't underestimate the cumulative fatigue.

Pacing the Long Distances

With 180km to cover, start conservatively. Many runners go out too hard on the runnable early sections. Think of the first half as getting to the start of the race.

Nutrition Strategy

Multiple nights and days of running mean gut fatigue is a major factor. Train with race food, practice eating while moving and have a clear checkpoint nutrition plan.

Training for 13 Valleys Ultra?

We build bespoke training plans and coaching packages for this race. Get in touch to discuss your goals and preparation.

Get in TouchOfficial Website ›