Date: 18–19 September 2026
Location: Hathersage, Hope Valley, Peak District (Derbyshire)
Event Type: Ultra Challenge / Trail Run / Trek
Distances: 25km, 50km, 75km, 100km, 100 miles

The Peak District Challenge returns in 2026 as one of the UK’s most iconic endurance events, offering walkers, joggers, and runners the chance to take on a fully supported ultra challenge through the heart of the Peak District National Park. With multiple distances and formats available, it’s designed to be as accessible or as extreme as you choose.

About the Event

Set in and around Hathersage in the Hope Valley, the Peak District Challenge features a series of circular, fully marked routes that showcase some of Derbyshire’s most dramatic landscapes, including rolling valleys, gritstone edges, and sweeping upland views.

Participants can take on the challenge at their own pace — walking, jogging, or running — either solo, in pairs, or as part of a team. The event is part of the well-known Ultra Challenge series and is known for its strong organisation, support stops, and community atmosphere.

All routes are fully supported with regular checkpoints offering food, hydration, and medical assistance, alongside GPS tracking and event staff monitoring progress throughout.

Depending on distance, the challenge ranges from shorter 25km routes suitable for ambitious walkers through to the full 100-mile ultra completed over 24 hours for experienced endurance athletes.

Distances & Start Times

• 100 Miles (24-hour ultra challenge)
• 100km Gold Ultra (24 hours)
• 75km Silver Challenge (24 hours)
• 50km Bronze Challenge (12 hours)
• 25km Copper Challenge (9 hours)

Start times vary:

• Longest distances: Friday evening (overnight start)
• Shorter distances: Saturday morning staggered starts

Included with Entry

Participants can expect:

• Fully waymarked or guided route options
• Regular checkpoints with food and drink
• GPS tracking and safety support
• Medical cover and marshals
• Finisher meal and event hospitality
• Route guide and pre-event information pack

Important Information

This is a demanding endurance event, particularly on longer distances which include significant elevation gain and navigation requirements. Participants should be prepared for long hours on the trail and changing weather conditions across the Peak District.

Entry options include self-navigation or guided walking groups, with guided support available for those who prefer extra assistance on course.

Age restrictions apply depending on distance, with minimum ages ranging from 12 for shorter routes to 18+ for ultra distances.

Entry Prices

• Approx. £61–£99 (depending on distance, self-navigation)
• Optional guided support: +£29 upgrade

Why Take Part?

The Peak District Challenge is one of the UK’s standout endurance events — combining big-distance ambition with highly organised support and some of the most scenic terrain in the country. Whether you’re aiming for your first 25km challenge or pushing into ultra-distance territory, it offers a serious test with a strong sense of community throughout.

It’s tough, scenic, and hugely rewarding — a true bucket-list challenge for anyone into trail running or long-distance hiking.