Welcome to the Merrell Cannock Chase Challenge 2026

For 2026, our event has not only undergone an exciting rebrand, but has also expanded to welcome even more runners, especially those who may not yet be ready to tackle the half or full marathon distances.

Formerly known as the Cannock Chase Half Trail Marathon, the event now proudly becomes the Merrell Cannock Chase Challenge.

Thanks to the incredible support of our headline sponsor Merrell, we’re delighted to offer three stunning trail distances— 10 km, 13.1 miles, and 26.2 miles, all set within the breathtaking Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty of Cannock Chase. It’s a trail runner’s paradise, and we can’t wait to share it with you!

The Half Marathon (13.1 miles) remains the only single-lap trail race of its kind on Cannock Chase. It’s 100% off-road, taking runners along twisting singletrack, peaceful fire roads, and hidden forest trails few ever get to explore... a true trail adventure.

For those seeking the ultimate test, the Full Marathon covers two laps of the same incredible course, making it one of the toughest yet most rewarding trail marathons in the UK.

New for 2026, the 10 km race offers a fantastic introduction to trail running. It follows similar terrain to the half and full marathon. A single, scenic lap showcasing some of our favourite singletrack trails across the Chase.

We’re also thrilled to be re-introducing the Marathon Relay, perfect for pairs who want to share the challenge. Teams of two (any gender) will each complete one half-marathon lap, handing over at the halfway point.

Unlike many events on Cannock Chase, our courses are designed to go beyond the ordinary. While anyone can run the main fire roads at any time, our routes take you off the beaten track, balancing challenge, beauty, and accessibility. They’re crafted to push experienced runners while remaining achievable for newcomers to trail running.

Above all, the Merrell Cannock Chase Challenge is about community, adventure, and enjoyment. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or simply aiming to cross the finish line, you’ll be surrounded by like-minded runners and we’ll be there to support you every step of the way.

Event Information

Distance: 10km /  13.1 Miles / 26.2 Miles
Surface: Trails / Undulating / 100% Off Road 
Route: 1 Single Lap (10km / 13.1Miles) 2 Laps (26.2 Miles)
Water Stations: Every 4 Miles
Distance Markers: Every Mile
Parking: Off Road / Free / 100 Meters From The Start
Facilities: Toilets / Catering / Photographer (Free Download) / Free Parking / Free Camping
Prizes: 1st, 2nd, 3rd, Male & Female / 1st Vet Male & Female / CaniX 1st, 2nd, 3rd (Half Marathon Only)
Freebies: Medal / Goodie Bag For All Finishers / Free Download Pictures
Merchandise: Available to pre-order at the point of entry. Any purchases will be shipped to you prior to the event.
Camping: Available on Friday and Saturday evening. Book online here.

Entry

10km - £20 Pre Entry (Early Bird)

Half Marathon - £25 Pre Entry (Early Biurd) / £35 On The Day (If places available)
Marathon - £40 Pre Entry (Early Bird) / £50 On the Day
Marathon Relay - £50 
Strictly limited to 500

Event program

8am - Site & Enquiries Open
8.30am – Late Entry Open (Only If The Event Hasn’t Sold Out)
9.45am – CaniX Start
10am – Half / Full Marathon Start

10.15am - 10km Start
11.30am – 1st Runner (Half Marathon) Expected Back
12.15pm – Prize Giving Half Marathon
2pm - 1st Runner (Marathon) Expected Back

Age Restrictions

10km - Over 14's Only
Half Marathon - Over 16's Only
Full Marathon - Over 18's Only

Spectating

We know that friends and family will want to come along and cheer you on (and perhaps watch you “enjoy the challenge” a little!). To make this as easy as possible, we’ve designed the course to stay close to the start/finish arena.

The route follows a figure-of-eight layout around the arena, meaning spectators can see runners several times without needing to walk far from the start, 1 mile, 3 miles, 10 miles, and the finish.

Entry and parking are free for spectators, so please do invite your friends and family to come along and support you on the day.

Thank You

We’d like to extend a huge thank you to our sponsors Merrell and Run & Ride, who will be supplying prizes for the top three finishers in each category, as well as spot prizes for those who truly capture the spirit of the event.

Course Profile

One of the toughest half marathon courses in the UK!

The start and finish arena is located at Tackeroo Campsite, in the heart of Cannock Chase. The course follows a figure-of-eight route, perfect for spectators and offers a fantastic mix of terrain and scenery.

The route features rolling terrain, hard stone tracks, and fun singletrack sections. We strongly recommend trail shoes, as the surface can be uneven and muddy in places.

Course Overview

• From the start, you’ll head out of the arena into the forest, looping back in before tackling a mile-long singletrack descent into the valley.

• A steady climb then brings you back up to the arena, where you’ll find the first feed station.

• Heading out in the opposite direction, the course flattens out for a few miles, weaving through dense woodland before descending into another valley.

• A long, steady climb then leads you onto the ridge and to the halfway point.

• The course then flattens again before heading into Brindley Heath, a beautiful stretch featuring a stream, open heathland, and wooded areas.

• From here, you’ll make your way back toward the arena, passing the 10-mile point — an ideal spot to soak up the cheers from spectators — before tackling the final singletrack loop around the arena and crossing the finish line.

Arrival

Please follow the event signage from Penkridge Bank to the car park area, where marshals will direct you to the start/finish arena.

We recommend arriving at least 30 minutes before your start time to allow for registration and warm-up.

• Bag Storage: A secure area will be available for storing clothing, keys, and other personal items.

• Clothing: Please dress appropriately for winter conditions. The start area can be exposed and windy, a windproof jacket and full-length bottoms are recommended.

Other Information

• Prize Presentation: This will take place approximately 30 minutes after the podium finishers cross the line.

• Results & Photos: Full results will be available online from Monday after the event. A link to both results and official event photos will be shared on our Facebook page.

Race Numbers

Race numbers will be collected on the day.

Please arrive with plenty of time, we recommend at least one hour before your start to allow for sign-on and preparation.

• Sign-on opens at 8:30 AM.

• Find your name under your category, then sign to confirm your entry.

• Under 18s must have a parent or guardian sign on their behalf.

Cancellations & Changes

We’re happy to process cancellations up to two weeks before the event.

• A £5 administration fee applies.

• You can manage changes directly through your RaceSpace account, including:

  • Moving categories

  • Transferring entries to another runner

  • Requesting a refund

Transfer of entries will carry a £1 surcharge.
Unfortunately, no changes or refunds can be made after this date.