Dormouse Challenge

Salcey Forest, located near Northampton and easily accessible via junction 15 of the M1 or by bus from Milton Keynes, offers runners an inviting setting for its unique 6-hour race. The forest is home to Forestry England's amenities including a café and toilets, making it convenient for participants. Parking fees are just £3.50 per car if you pre-book through emails sent out to entrants.
The event caters to all levels of runners or hikers who can choose how many laps they want to complete on the 3.5-mile off-road loop within a six-hour window. This flexibility allows participants to aim for distances ranging from just one lap (about 20 minutes) up to over 80 kilometers, making it perfect for those looking to challenge themselves or simply enjoy a leisurely run with friends.
The course winds through well-maintained pathways of crushed stone and open forest floor, offering varied terrain that can become muddy during wet conditions. Trail shoes are recommended on rainy days when some sections may be slippery. Runners interested in bringing their dogs along will find the event welcoming to canicross enthusiasts; however, it’s important for dog owners to keep leads short and maintain consideration for other participants.
Entry fees vary depending on your registration date: £37 before October 21st, 2025, or £42 after. Unaffiliated runners pay an extra two pounds but can join the Big Bear Brigade to receive a 10% discount on future entries. Participants have the option to support Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity by setting up a fundraising page during registration.
Previous results and course records from Salcey Forest events are available online, providing insight into what to expect at this familiar venue. For those interested in rucking or seeking an off-day experience, Skamper offers on-demand event options that allow participants to complete the route on their schedule while still earning a medal.
The atmosphere is designed to be inclusive and supportive, with videos from Big Bear Events available for newcomers who might have questions about what to expect. Whether you're aiming for a marathon distance or just looking for an enjoyable run in nature, Salcey Forest’s 6-hour race provides the perfect setting.
Participants can also opt into Earth Runs’ initiative which replaces medals with tree tokens that include wildflower seeds, promoting sustainability and environmental awareness.
For more detailed information about route markings, GPX files, or additional questions, Big Bear Events encourages participants to join their Facebook group for direct support from experienced runners.