Whether you’re a runner looking for a new challenge or simply want a walk in the beautiful Lake District, the 2 Valleys Trail race has it all

Two valleys; 22km; just over 500m of elevation; and breathtaking views over Borrowdale and Basssenthwaite – what more could you want from an event?

Whether you’re making you first foray into off-road running, looking to boost your trail experience, or simply looking for a walk with spectacular scenery in the heart of the Lake District, then the 2 Valleys Trail race is a bucket-list event that you simply have to tick off.

Taking place on September 27th, as part of a weekend of running that also incorporates its bigger brother, the Altra 13 Valleys Ultra, the 2 Valleys – sponsors include Altra, Suunto, Janji and VOOM Nutrition – is the perfect taster event and an ideal introduction for first-time trail runners.

Runners gather for the start

And if you’re thinking 22km off-road is too challenging, think again. Like the 13 Valley course, the 2 Valleys starts and finishes in Keswick, but an eight-hour cut-off time makes it very accessible to runners or walkers – and absolutely perfect for first-timers wanting to get into trail adventures.

The course weaves its way out of town on pavements and then along the fairly flat paved cycle way to Threlkeld. This allows you to get into a nice running rhythm and have easy underfoot conditions to fully enjoy the views.

You’ll still want your trail shoes on though for what is to come. The first proper incline – and trail section – starts at about 9km in, although the aid station at this point is packed full of snacking options and the perfect fillip to tackle the forthcoming terrain and elevation!

You’ll be tackling some trickier pathways but the pay-off at the top is worth it: be prepared for the breathtaking views at the top of the climb! From there, it’s downhill back into Keswick on pavement paths and a finish line of smiles and applause.

The beautiful slate medal not only makes it worth the adventure but also ticks a sustainability box (and doubles as a coaster for that welcome cuppa post race!).

There is a minimum kit required for the 2 Valleys. This includes: a rucksack, race vest or bumbag, a waterproof jacket and trousers, a survival bag, a phone and, of course, appropriate footwear (for the full list, click here).

Be aware that your kit will be checked at registration, and there will also be a kit check for the first finishers. Not having the right kit could see you disqualified!

With the 13 Valleys Ultra and 2 Valleys Trail both starting and finishing in Keswick, there are a variety of travel and accommodation options. Why not make the most of the weekend and tie in the race with a visit to the Lakes? There are plenty of places to stay in Keswick, which is accessible by car, train and bus.

Parking spaces are available to pre-book at local car parks over the weekend of the event. There are limited spaces: 5% of the parking fees will be donated to the Lake District Foundation to support the National Park (along with 5% of each entry too!).

The race also features a host of sustainability measures, such as electric cars to retrieve runners who DNF; signage made from durable rubber rather than disposable material; active promotion of local transport links; and a great range of food options at feed stations and the event village that caters for veggie, vegan and gluten-free runners.

So, what are you waiting for? Sign up today and get ready for a race to remember! Entries cost £65. Whether you run, run/walk or walk, the 2 Valleys event is the perfect way to see this breathtaking part of the Lake District.

KEY POINTS – COURSE

  • Like the 13 Valleys ultra the trail starts and finishes in Keswick, with a nice, steady flat path. This allows you to get into the rhythm of things, with a straightforward run to enjoy the epic views for the first 10k.
  • After 10k, expect an incline – but remember, you can walk uphill and run the rest. The unique landscapes will continue to push you along.
  • Don’t fear the miles which are more uphill, they are still low elevation for the Lake District, with highest points reaching 400m+.
  • The final stretch involves a swift downhill pavement back to Keswick for that finishing moment of glory, through the town centre.