10k Course Description:
We never like to scream and shout TOO much about our routes, as not every route is to everyone's taste... But in this case, we can wholeheartedly say, this is one of the BEST ever trail routes we've run on, and we're only being a smidge bias when we say that. The whole route feels like you're running in a cross between sasquatch country and fairytale-esque woodlands. It can be described as easy for first time runners, but there's so much enjoyable paths, tracks and trails that the most seasoned and quickest of trail runners are going to fall in love with the sport all over again.
Starting from the Gisburn Forest Hub, runners will be directed back out the entrance towards the forest, before journeying down "The 8", the wonderfully twisty-turny bike trail, which has been specially allowed to be open for the Gisburn Trail 10k Race. Making your way over the Stocks Reservoir bridge, you'll come to the fantastic wide open forest tracks.
You'll greet the Dale Head loop, which will bring you to our favourite section of the route, a thoroughly enjoyable descent through the woodland setting down to the river. Back on open forest tracks, you'll see the inspiringly beautiful horizons that Gisburn Forest is set in. With a fast, last two miles to the finish, you'll have finished the trail with the biggest grin on your face - and that's a Pennine promise!
Half Marathon Course Description:
Taking in much of the 10k route, at the 4 mile mark you are sent up to complete much of the famous 'the 8' loop. Running clockwise, you will first be met with sprawling amazing scenery before making your way up to the further most parts of Gisburn Forest, before racing all the way back down the beautiful, fairytale like bike trails which are unlike anything else in the area.
There will be multiple aid stations along the route to keep you hydrated and fuelled along the way, as well as the route being fully marked and marshalled too, allowing you to enjoy the trails and focus on the running. GPX files are also supplied and available to download from the website.
PLEASE REMEMBER TO KEEP OFF THE BIKE TRAILS UNTIL RACE DAY -
We have been granted special permission to use them for the Gisburn Forest Trail Half Marathon, please keep off any bike trails if you plan any recces before race day.