Peak District 70th Birthday Bash | Half Bash

The Peak District 70th Birthday Bash was an event for runners and hikers held in April 2022 in celebration of the UK's original national park's 70th anniversary, while at the same time promoting and supporting the work of the Peak District National Park Foundation charity. 

The full 70 kilometre Birthday Bash Route is a spectacular tour of the best scenery the Peak District has to offer. With around 2,600 metres (8,500ft) of elevation gain it is a challenging route but the multitude of breathtaking views make the effort worthwhile. The half distance (35k) option covers the first half of the longer route but, with over 1,300 metres (4000ft) of elevation gain itself is still a challenge that will gain you kudos.

From the start at Castleton you will climb up via the Great Ridge to Lord's Seat, before meandering your way through the hills that form the western edge of the national park to the first checkpoint at Hayfield.

You'll then visit the gathering point of the Kinder Scout Mass Trespass of 1932, which paved the way for the formation of National Parks and our right to roam in upland areas, before climbing up to traverse the edge of Kinder Scout itself - the highest plateau in the Peak District. From Kinder Scout, Jacob's Ladder will take you down into Edale where you'll reach checkpoint 2.   

From Edale, half distance participants will climb back over the Great Ridge to take a direct route back to Castleton. Those tackling the full 70k will continue along the valley before climbing up to Hope Cross and Win Hill which has panoramic views across the 'dark peak'.

Bamford will be your next checkpoint before you start the next climb up to and along the iconic Stanage Edge, with great views back across the hills you've already conquered, as well as those still to come.

You then enjoy a long descent into Hathersage where you can replenish your energy at your fourth checkpoint, before continuing your journey along some lesser known, but still wonderful, trails towards Bradwell.

There is then one last push into the hills before you can bask in the glory of your spectacular final descent to the finish in Castleton.