Night Challenge 4: Glendalough
Glendalough Upper Lake, Ireland • 23 Oct 2026
The Night Challenge 4: Glendalough is a mountain running event held in County Wicklow. The race takes place at night on technical terrain and is part of the Leinster night series. All participants are required to carry a head torch suitable for running, with a back-up light source recommended.
The event is limited to 250 participants. The event offers two distinct distances: * **10 km** with 490 meters of ascent * **5 km** (Standard short course: 4.8 km) The **10 km** course starts at the shore of the Glendalough Upper Lake and follows a loop that includes an ascent to the summit of Derrybawn Mountain. The route incorporates sections of the Wicklow Way and St Kevin's Way trails. The **4.8 km** short course performs a loop of the Lower Lake, passing historical landmarks such as the Glendalough round tower and St Kevin's church before rejoining the main route for the final section. Participants must carry mandatory Level B safety kit, including a waterproof jacket, hat or buff, gloves, whistle, charged mobile phone, and a foil blanket or bivvy bag.
Eligibility for the short course begins at age 14, while the long course is restricted to runners aged 18 and older. The routes are fully marked, and the use of GPS devices for navigation is not permitted. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.