The Lake District Paws Canicross races launched in autumn 2024 and will continue through May 2025.

What is Canicross?

Canicross is the sport of cross country running with dogs which originated in Europe as off season training for the sledding community.

It has become popular as a stand alone sport worldwide and is very popular in the UK.

Canicross can be run with one or two dogs, always attached to the runner via a waist belt.

The dog wears a specifically designed harness joined to the waist belt with an elastic cord that reduces shock to both human and dog when the dog pulls.

It goes without saying that your dog needs to be suited to long distance running, so these courses are not suitable for pups who are not fully developed or older dogs who may have medical conditions.

Lake District Canicross

England’s only mountain forest, Dodd Wood & Grizedale Forest is the perfect location for you to enjoy stunning scenery and a fully marked course on forest roads and trails whilst running alongside your canine best friend.

This series offers a mix of courses across three venues with 5 and 3 mile options available. The popular double header weekend in May makes a return!

Event Dates
Sun 6th Oct: Whinlatter Tails (Seat How Course)
Sun 3rd Nov: Dogs @ Dodd
Sun 1st Dec: Grizedale Growl
Sun 5th Jan: Whinlatter Tails (Seat How anti-clockwise)
Sat 1st Feb: Grizedale Growl (East Side)
Sun 2nd March: Dogs @ Dodd
Sun 6th April: Whinlatter Tails (New longer Route)
Sat 10th May: Dogs @ Dodd (part of our Double Header)
Sun 11th May: Whinlatter Tails (Seat How Course and second part of the Double Header)

Booking essential

Find out more on the Visit Lake District website