Darkwood Demon

Darkwood Demon

Darkwood Demon is a trail race organised by Slaithwaite Striders RC on Sunday 13 September 2026 in the Colne Valley, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire. The course is one lap of 6.0 miles (9.7 km) with approximately 990 feet (300 metres) of ascent and is classified as hilly trail running.

The route crosses varied terrain including towpath, bridleway, moorland, bogs, woodland and some road. The course features a climb up Slaithwaite Moor to the top of Cupwith and a descent that leads to the finish at Zapato Brewery. The route is fully marshalled and waymarked so navigation is not required. Trail shoes are strongly recommended and there are no specific kit requirements.

Event facilities are centred at Zapato Brewery, Holme Mills, West Slaithwaite Road, Marsden, Huddersfield, HD7 6LS. Provided facilities include water and toilets, free on-site parking and bib collection from inside race HQ on the day. There are no distance markers, no changing facilities, no showers and no baggage storage. The event is held under UK Athletics rules and the minimum age for entrants is 16. Entry is limited to 250 places; fees are £8.00 for affiliated runners and £10.00 for unaffiliated runners. Prizes include trophies for first male and female, top three male and female prizes and age category awards. Course records are listed at 36:58 for male and 47:56 for female. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.