Spring Trail Series

Through the rolling Greensand hills of the South Downs. Five distances. One vibrant event village. A trail weekend built for everyone.

Discover

At the 2026 Spring Trail Series we will welcome over 1200 runners and walkers to the Serpent Trail, a stunning route that weaves through the greensand hills, rivers, woodland, and lowland heath of the South Downs National Park. To find the start, simply put ‘Cowdray Farm Shop, Midhurst’ into maps and you’ll be directed to the event parking by Ultra X high viz crew.

RACE STARTS

Distance

110km

Technicality

1/5

Temperature

7-20°C

Location

Cowdray Estate, West Sussex

We designed the event to be the most accessible in the UK. All races start and finish at the same location, just outside the wonderful Cowdray Farm Shop (perfect for spectators). Furthermore, you can park your car at the start/finish village. The Spring Trail Series offers five event distances: 12km, 25km, 50km, 50 miler, 110km.

Please arrive 45 minutes before your start time in order to collect your bib. If you’d prefer to receive yours in the post, you can select this option at registration.

At the start/finish there will be an expo selling merchandise, hot drinks, food and much more.

Should you choose, runners and walkers will be able to purchase camping at the event village for the Friday and Saturday night. You can book your pitch when registering for the event.

Elevation 110KM

Elevation 50 Miler

Elevation 50KM

Elevation 25KM

Elevation 12KM

“The Spring Trail Series 50km was such a great event. For many of us it was the first race back after a long hiatus and in true Ultra X style it did not disappoint. Fabulous course, incredible support from all the staff and volunteers but most importantly, it’s the Ultra X running community that makes it such a warm and accepting environment regardless of your background.”

Renee McGregor UK

“The Spring Trail Series 100km in April was the first time I’d entered a race organised by Ultra X and I can’t speak highly enough of the event, the route, and organisation behind it. From the moment you enter, through to the regular detailed updates and the race itself you can tell how much thought and planning has gone into it, really impressive and means that as a runner all you need to think about on the day is putting one foot in front of the other and having fun! Whenever I spoke to a member of staff or volunteer they couldn’t do enough to help, did so with a smile which created such a welcoming atmosphere that perfectly captures what trail running should be about. Ultra X have set the benchmark for how a trail race should be run!”

Paul Dunstan UK

“The mini 21km trail run I did was the absolute highlight of the month, the Ultra X team did such a great job in helping us not only to prepare but to anticipate in every way in advance. The race was just perfect – great location, great transport connection, fantastic atmosphere which eventually attracted fantastic runners.”

Zita Galantai Hungary

“The Spring Trail Series had everything you could ever want from a trail run. From the views to the vibes, this Ultra X event, as usual, didn’t disappoint! Starting and finishing from the same point, the location was perfect, and the course sublime. Plenty of runnable trails, and a good helping of mud to keep it fun! 10/10 – would run again!”

James Cooke UK

Experience The South Downs

We understand that competitors may wish to travel to the South Downs with family or friends. Should they wish to enjoy the South Downs National Park while you race, we highly recommend visiting the following sights. Alternatively, you can visit them together after the event.

If one of your party would like to volunteer at the race while you take part, they can complete the Volunteer Application Form and we will do our best to accommodate them.

Arundel Castle

A restored and remodelled medieval castle established by Roger de Montgomery on Christmas Day in 1067.

Kingley Vale

This National Nature Reserve contains a grove of ancient trees which are among the oldest living things in Britain.

Seven Sisters
Country Park

Now one of the most picturesque views in the world, the Sisters were created when ancient rivers cut valleys into the chalk.

You're In. Now What?

Once you've entered, here's what happens next:

Welcome Email

Receive your confirmation, key dates, and first steps together in one clear message.

Race Pack Delivered


Get full event details, kit lists, and logistics delivered straight to your inbox.

Join the Community


Join our private Facebook group to meet runners, ask questions, and share your build-up.

Optional Pre-Race Call

Book an optional team call to ask questions and feel fully prepared before race day.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

We take care of the logistics so you can focus on the race.
Included 110km 50miles 50km 25km 12km
Race entry
Fully marked course
Medical support throughout the race
Fully stocked aid stations on course and hot water for preparing food at the campsite
Ground assistance and full safety support
Opportunity to purchase event photography
UTMB World Series Indexed race 100K
UTMB World Series Indexed race 50K
UTMB World Series Indexed race 20K
Finisher’s medal
Drop Bag taken to mid-way point on course
GPS Tracker
Travel to Cowdray Estate
Personal food, kit and equipment (see kit list below)
Comprehensive insurance (to cover cancellations, loss of items, injury etc)
Training costs
Spending money
Transport home for runners who are disqualified or withdraw early
Accomodation before and after the event (option to purchase at checkout)

Cutoff Policy:

We have very relaxed cut-offs. To us, it’s not about what time you get, it’s the adventure you have along the way. On average you will have over 2hrs to complete each 10km (in-between checkpoints).

If You Don't Finish:

In the scenario that you cannot finish a stage at one of our events, you will be offered entry into the following edition of the race at half price. You will not receive a finishers medal or official result.

READY
TO RACE?