The feeling of a head torch trail run in the woods is unique. The night-time adds a whole new dimension to trail running: it is both wild and peaceful at the same time.

Your senses become razor sharp and you become aware of your heart beat pounding in your chest.  You may hear the hoot or screech of an owl, or the rustling of woodland animals in the undergrowth. In the darkness of the woodland canopy the light from your head torch will be reflected back by the eyes of deer and other creatures peering out from the safety of the deep forest.

This is the third running of Hamsterley Moon Runner and a firm favourite! All of the Moon Runner head torch races take place in the winter months when a crisp ground frost is common. Beams of moonlight breaking through the trees can create a magical atmosphere while you run along the sparkling surface. You can experience a definite sense of isolation and remoteness, but with that come feelings of exhilaration as your feet react to changing terrain, and excitement as your senses adapt to the different sights and sounds in the darkness.

The route will be fully waymarked, and is ideal for trail novices and experienced runners alike.

Start Time: 6pm

Registration: 4pm-5.30pm

Venue: Hamsterley Forest. DL13 3NL, is the largest forest in County Durham covering 4900 square acres.

The forest is great for all types of outdoor activities including trail running and it’s a great way to spot the local wildlife. If you’re lucky you may spot birds of prey, squirrels, badgers or deer.

Terrain conditions: a mixture of hard packed gravel tracks, single twisting dirt tracks, a few steep technical downhills and occasional muddy bridleway.

Parking/Race HQ: 

• There will be a race HQ with toilets.
• There are spaces for approx. 200 cars; therefore participants are encouraged to car share when possible.
• There will be medical support throughout the event.
• Water/food and fruit available at the start and finish area.

Weather: at this time of year it is not unusual for the temperature to fall below freezing therefore we suggest bringing with you a hat, gloves and warm jacket so that you can enjoy your cuppa and some hot food from the cafe.

We are an eco-friendly company and, on that basis, we don’t use disposable plastic cups and don’t offer T shirts. What we do guarantee is a first class race experience where you can make memories to last a lifetime! We are actively encouraging participants to give something back to the environment which is why your race goodies are a little bit different. We are including a packet of mixed wild flower seeds for you to plant which will encourage bees and other pollinators to visit your garden which is great for the environment.

You can access our car sharing group on Facebook, where you can arrange car sharing opportunities with other race day participants. Great for the environment and great for your pocket.... and you could win free race places in our car share raffle! Car Share group

Your entry and what’s included:

• An ECO medal.
• free downloadable event pictures.
• a packet of Wild flower seeds.
• Voucher prizes for the top 3 male and female finishers
• Head torch prizes from Ledlenser,  and Balega.
• Free future race places for all category winners.

View the Event Disclaimer / Terms and Conditions.

View the Event Cancellation / Refund Policy.

This event offers the option to purchase XCover, so that participants may be able to get a refund if they are unable to attend due to unforeseen circumstances.

Other events in this series

Sat 15 Feb 25	Whinlatter Moon Runner
Wed 9 Jul 25	Wheelbirks Summer 10k
Sat 18 Oct 25	Chopwell Moon Runner 10k
Sat 15 Nov 25	Hamsterley Moon Runner-10k

---