The Dovedale Dipper | The Big Dipper Run

The Dipper is back for 2024! The Dovedale Dipper - or Dovedale DRIPPER as it became known in 2023 due to the terrential rain! - is a challenging trail event for runners and walkers in the Peak District National Park. Based in the picturesque village of Hartington, there is a choice of distances on two great routes which explore a wonderful part of the white peak area. The Dipper is a popular fixture with both runners and hikers, who travel from far and wide to take part. It was previously organised by the Matlock Rotary Club from 2003 until the 2019 event, which they announced would be their last. However, as the Dipper had been one of our favourite events for many years, we couldn't let it die and so Peak Running took over the reigns. Both the long and short routes take participants on an exciting and extremely scenic journey through the hills, valleys and villages on the Derbyshire-Staffordshire border. The Big Dipper - Our long route is comfortably a marathon distance (some may even claim it's an ultra as it's closer to 27-miles than 26!). It's an anticlockwise route exploring both the Dove and Manifold valleys, sometimes weaving around the hills and sometimes going over them to provide some spectacular views. The Little Dipper - The shorter route provides a great option for those who aren't up for a full marathon distance, or would like a more leisurely day out in the Peaks. It's not to be underestimated though, as you don't get to avoid the best hills.