The Colne Valley 3 Peaks Trail Race offers a rugged yet rewarding escape in the heart of West Yorkshire, challenging runners and hikers over a 15-kilometer route peppered with nearly 700 meters of elevation gain. This race threads through the tough terrain between Cold Hill, Rishworth Moor, and Blackstone Edge, where each peak stands fierce against the ever-changing sky. The path combines forested sections that close in like green walls and open moorlands where the wind dares you to keep moving forward.

Starting in Huddersfield’s Colne Valley, you'll navigate trails that shift underfoot — from muddy roots in woodland to craggy heather-strewn slopes — demanding both stamina and alert footing. The peaks don't just rise silently; they loom, pushing your pace, pulling your breath, and rewarding every footfall with sweeping vistas where the valley stretches beneath like a slow-moving river.

The race offers a unique blend of trail running and hiking, suitable for those wanting to test their endurance against hills that are fiercely themselves. Preparation is key: solid trail shoes with good grip are a must, given loose scree and slippery sections. Bring hydration packs or bottles as aid stations are limited. Since the weather turns quickly up here, layers and waterproofs should be in your pack — the moorland doesn’t just invite wind and rain, it insists on respect.

Timing your run in spring or early autumn maximizes the balance between pleasant air and trail conditions. Summer trails can dry out, but also bake under strong sun, while winter terrain demands extra caution for ice and mud. Regardless of season, watching hawks circle overhead or hearing the distant call of grouse adds an unpredictable soundtrack to your push forward.

For those tackling the race, strategy matters: pace yourself on the continuous ascents, and lean into descents with controlled confidence. The natural obstacles here don’t just challenge your body but engage a conversation between runner and terrain. The Colne Valley 3 Peaks is not something to dominate; it demands a rhythm, a steady mutual understanding — a test of both boldness and restraint.

Ultimately, this trail race is more than a physical challenge; it is a chance to meet Huddersfield’s wild side head on, gaining insight into the landscape and your own limits alongside it. Whether you’re an experienced trail runner or a determined hiker, the Colne Valley 3 Peaks delivers an adventure grounded in the tangible grit of West Yorkshire’s hills.