Beast Of The Beacons

Crickhowell, United Kingdom • 18 Apr 2026

Event Overview

The Beast of the Beacons is a trail running event held on 18th April 2026 in the Brecon Beacons National Park. The event features marked courses with marshal support and well-stocked checkpoints that cater to various dietary requirements. It is a canicross-friendly event.

Distances and Elevation

Participants can choose from three distances:

  • 10 miles (16 km) with 2026 ft of elevation.
  • 20 miles (32.5 km) with 4219 ft of elevation.
  • 40 miles (65 km) with 8438 ft of elevation. The 40-mile course consists of two laps, with the second lap run in reverse.

Location and Course

The event starts and finishes at Gilestone Farm in Talybont on Usk, Brecon. The route explores trails through forests and mountains, passing rivers and reservoirs. Organisers note that snow can sometimes be encountered.

Logistics

Cut-off times are 8 hours for the 10-mile and 20-mile routes, and 16 hours for the 40-mile route. Mandatory kit is required, including waterproof jacket and trousers, a race vest, a head torch, and a reusable cup. A full kit check is conducted at registration.

Additional Features

Dogs are allowed for canicross but must be at least 12 months old, kept on a lead, and participants are not eligible for overall trophies. Camping is available on-site, and facilities include toilets, a coffee van, a medical team, and a physio. Post-event refreshments are provided.

Participant Benefits

All finishers receive a bespoke medal. Prizes include handcrafted Welsh slate trophies for the top three overall male and female finishers, as well as categories for veterans over 50 and 60. A gallery of pictures and online results are provided. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Race information

40 mi
40 Mile Ultra Challenge
20 mi
20 Mile Trail Running Challenge
10 mi
10 Mile Trail Running Challenge
Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
Trail runs nearby

Take on the Sorbrook Slog on 22 February 2026, a lively 7 mile multi terrain race through footpaths, fields and gullies around Sorbrook and Sluvad in Cwmbran. Enjoy marshals on course, post race tea and cake and a finishers goodie bag.

Join a weekend fell and trail running retreat in the Black Mountains, Wales from 27 Feb to 1 Mar 2026 at Dinas Castle Inn. Guided runs on the Dragons Back ridge, skills coaching and bunkhouse accommodation make for an inspiring weekend for..

A point-to-point, fully marked long-distance race along the Taff Trail from the Brecon Beacons to Nantgarw, covering about 70 km. The course mixes upland trails and valley cycle paths, with six checkpoints and a Merthyr drop bag for mid-rac..

Two winter mountain races between Brecon and Cardiff. The Brecon to Cardiff Xtreme is about 75 km (47.5 miles) over 11 summits with roughly 2680 m ascent, while the Taff Xtreme Marathon covers the second half at about 26.2 miles and 1300 m..

UTMB Index