The Shortest Day
Race Overview
The Shortest Day is a new dawn-to-dusk winter trail challenge taking place at the scenic Box Hill, Dorking.
Runners complete a 10-mile trail loop (approx. 2,400 ft elevation per lap) and can stop after any completed loop, running from sunrise (~08:03) to sunset (~15:53).
Whether you’re tackling your first trail run, hiking one loop, stepping up to your first ultra, or taking on a serious winter challenge, everyone runs their own race.
Entry includes full insurance, medical cover, aid stations and finishers medals.
How far can you go before the light runs out?
The Route
- DistanceDistance
- 10.1 mi
- ClimbElevation Gain
- 2,400 ft
- PeakHighest Point
- 702 ft
- RouteRoute
- Loop
Elevation Profile
Hover or drag along the profile to follow the route
Load the route onto your watch or phone app (Garmin, Strava, Komoot, Coros…).
Download GPXLoop Times & Cutoffs
Each row shows the average time per loop if you're aiming for that many loops, and the latest time you can set off on it.
- 110 mi8 hours
- 220 mi4 hours12:15pm
- 330 mi2 hours 40 mins1:30pm
- 440 mi2 hours2:15pm
- 550 mi1 hour 36 mins2:45pm
All loops finish by 4pm
What's Included
Key Details
Location
Details
Registration opens
11 Mar 2026
Registration closes
11 Dec 2026
Start time
Various start times
Essential Kit
View the full kit list →Register Now
Getting to the Race
Box Hill Main Car Park, KT20 7LB
By Car
From London: Take the M25 to Junction 9, then follow A24 south towards Dorking. Take the Burford Bridge exit and follow signs to Box Hill. Paid parking at Box Hill Main Car Park.
By Train
Nearest Station: Box Hill & Westhumble Station
Direct trains from London Victoria and London Waterloo. The station is a 30-minute walk from the start line.
Journey Time: 30 minutes walk
Register Now