Dormouse Challenge
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Event format and distances
The Dormouse Challenge is a six-hour event based on repeated laps of an off-road loop. Participants complete as many laps of the 3.5-mile loop as they wish within the time limit. One lap is sufficient to finish on the day. Example distances given by the organiser: four laps is about 14 miles, and a marathon requires seven laps plus a short out-and-back. Rucking is permitted. Canicross is allowed; dogs must be kept on short leads and canicross entrants should use the canicross-specific entry.
Location, course and entry
The event takes place at Salcey Forest, NN7 2HX, a Forestry England site near Northampton with a café and toilets. Parking is charged (a negotiated day rate of £3.50 is offered to entrants) and the number 33 bus stops inside the forest. The closest train station is Northampton; the site is described as about 18 minutes from Northampton and 9 minutes from Junction 15 of the M1.
The route has no asphalt and follows mainly crushed stone or well-trodden forest floor. Narrow sections may have tree detritus and can become muddy or slippery when wet; road shoes may be fine on dry days and trail shoes may be advisable when conditions are wet. Entry fees are tiered: before 21/10/2025 the fee is £37, after that it is £42, with an extra £2 for unaffiliated entrants. A route GPX file and a choice between a medal or a tree token are provided. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
