Elephant Challenge - Harwell
Harwell, United Kingdom • 24 Mar 2026
Elephant Challenge : event overview
The Elephant Challenge takes place on 24 March 2026 at Salcey Forest, NN7 2HX, England. It is a timed six-hour event in which participants complete as many laps as they wish of a roughly 3.5-mile off-road loop. The organiser notes that a marathon distance requires seven laps plus a short out-and-back, and a half marathon requires three laps plus an out-and-back. The event has been held at Salcey Forest in previous years.
Course, logistics and entry
The route follows well maintained forest paths with no asphalt; surfaces are mainly crushed stone or compacted forest floor. Narrower sections may have tree detritus and can become muddy or slippery when wet. Road shoes are suitable on dry days; trail shoes may be preferable in wet conditions. Canicross is permitted with short leads and consideration for other runners; canicross entrants must use the canicross-specific entry. Parking on site is chargeable with a negotiated day rate of £3.50. The number 33 bus stops inside Salcey Forest. The site is about 18 minutes from Northampton and about 9 minutes from M1 Junction 15; the closest train station is Northampton. Entry fees follow tiered pricing: £37 before 24/02/2026 and £42 afterward, with an extra £2 for unaffiliated entrants and no booking fee. A GPX of the route is available, rucking is allowed, and there are options for a medal or a Big Bear Tree Token that results in a tree being planted. An optional charity donation to Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity is offered at sign up. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.