Summer Solstice Fell Race
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
Summer Solstice Fell Race
The Summer Solstice Fell Race is a mountain running event held in the Merrivale valley on Dartmoor. The event features multiple distance options to accommodate different age groups:
- 9.5 km Senior race (ages 18 and over)
- Junior races for U9, U11, U13, and U15 categories
The senior course is approximately six miles long and includes significant elevation changes. The route begins near the Dartmoor Inn, Merrivale, starting shortly after a walk from the car park at the edge of the quarry. Runners face a steep initial climb to Middle Staple Tor before following a ridge toward Higher Staple and Roos Tor. The terrain consists of undulating paths, a sharp turn near a stone wall corner, and a persistent slope up White Tor. The return journey includes a fast descent to a stream ford, an ascent back out of the valley, and a final 1 km descent to the finish line.
The route is partially marked to protect ground nesting birds and avoid firing ranges. Participants must be competent at navigating in various weather conditions and are required to wear adequate clothing. The event organizers reserve the right to shorten or cancel the course in the event of inclement weather.
Facilities at the site include car parking in a local field, toilet facilities, and refreshments. Participants should bring their own water bottles. Entry is available online, with a limited number of places. If availability allows, registration on the day is possible for a higher fee. Age group categories are organized in 10-year increments. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
