Celtic Trail Races

Event

The Celtic Trail Races take place on 13 December 2025 at Dare Valley Country Park, Aberdare, Rhondda Cynon Taff. Routes run through the Afan Forest and the Rhigos mountain range and use sections of the Coed Morgannwg Way. The courses include sharp climbs, long descents, river crossings and sections of remote-feeling single track. Competitors pass reservoirs, ancient woodland tracks and wind turbines with views toward the Brecon Beacons National Park.

Race distances

• Celtic Ultra - 34 miles, circular route from Dare Valley Park
• Celtic Trail Marathon - 26 miles, circular route from Dare Valley Park
• Celtic Trail Half Marathon - 13 miles, linear route from Resolven Rugby Club to Dare Valley Park

Navigation, safety and support

All routes are fully marked using running arrows, flags and marking tape. GPX files and maps are provided. Checkpoints are manned: 7 for the Ultra, 6 for the Marathon and 3 for the Half. Checkpoints supply water, fruit, sweets, biscuits and crisps. Courses have published time limits (Ultra 10 hours, Marathon 8 hours, Half 7 hours). There is compulsory kit that entrants must carry.

Practical information

The half marathon is a linear route and coach transfer is available at additional cost; those using the coach may take a small finish bag (10 litres) to be returned to the finish. Ultra and Marathon are circular and do not require coach transfer. Event base, registration and main car parking use postcode CF44 7RG; event parking for half marathon participants is at CF44 8UH. Entry prices are listed for each distance and optional extras are available. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.