There are plenty of reasons trail runners head to the Lake District. The mountains, the fells, the views and the sheer variety of trails make it one of the UK’s ultimate running destinations.

But thousands of runners this autumn will be experiencing the National Park as part of the Altra 13 Valleys Ultra.

The event has rapidly established itself as one of the UK’s most sought-after trail races, bringing together everyone from runners taking their first steps into trail running to experienced ultra runners looking for their next big challenge.

And its popularity shows no sign of slowing down. Registrations for the 2026 event are up by more than 60% year-on-year, while overall participation has increased by more than 67%.

So what’s the attraction?

The Altra 13 Valleys Ultra offers runners the chance to explore the Lake District on foot, with four distances designed to offer very different challenges.

From a 22km introduction to fell and trail running through to the epic 180km 13 Valleys course, there’s an option for runners at almost every level.

2 Valleys – 22km

The shortest of the four distances, the 2 Valleys route is a great introduction to trail running and the Lake District’s spectacular terrain.

At 22km, it’s long enough to feel like a proper challenge without requiring the commitment of an ultra-distance race. A generous cut-off also makes it accessible to runners and walkers who want to enjoy the route rather than race the clock.

For more experienced trail runners, however, there’s plenty of opportunity to push the pace and race hard over a relatively short distance.

In other words, whether you’re new to the trails or looking for a fast day out in the fells, 2 Valleys offers a taste of what 13 Valleys is all about.

5 Valleys – 50km

For many runners, 50km is where the real ultra adventure begins.

The 5 Valleys route has become one of the event’s most popular distances, with more than 1,200 runners signed up for 2026.

Covering 50km of varied Lake District terrain, the route combines climbs, runnable trails and spectacular mountain scenery. It’s a serious challenge, but one that can also provide an ideal introduction to ultra running for those who have already ticked off the marathon distance.

With the Lake District providing the backdrop, there’s plenty to distract you from the kilometres.

7 Valleys – 110km

Step up to 110km and the experience becomes a very different proposition.

The 7 Valleys route takes runners deeper into the National Park, with long hours on the trails and the added challenge of dealing with changing weather, terrain and fatigue.

For many, it’s as much about managing the journey as running it. Nutrition, pacing and knowing when to push – and when to hold back – become increasingly important as the kilometres accumulate.

And with runners potentially spending time on the fells through both daylight and darkness, it’s a proper ultra experience.

13 Valleys – 180km

Then there’s the big one.

The flagship 13 Valleys route covers 180km and takes runners through all 13 valleys of the Lake District National Park.

It’s an enormous challenge, demanding physical endurance, mental resilience and smart decision-making over a long period of time.

But that’s also what makes it so appealing.

Rather than simply completing a set distance, runners get to experience a huge journey through one of Britain’s most spectacular landscapes – with mountains, valleys, lakes and remote trails providing the backdrop.

It’s the kind of race that can become a genuine bucket-list goal for an ultra runner.

More than just a race

Part of the appeal of 13 Valleys is that the event isn’t simply about getting from the start line to the finish.

The routes showcase the diversity of the Lake District and give runners the opportunity to experience the National Park in a way that’s very different from a conventional road race.

There’s also a strong sense of community around the event, with organisers, volunteers, runners and supporters all playing their part.

With Altra as title partner, the event has grown into a major fixture on the UK trail-running calendar – and the increasing number of entries suggests that more runners are keen to discover what all the fuss is about.

Whether you’re looking for your first trail challenge, a first ultra or a genuinely epic endurance adventure, the Altra 13 Valleys Ultra offers plenty of reasons to head for the fells.

And with four distances to choose from, you don’t necessarily have to take on all 13 valleys to get a taste of the adventure.