This isn’t a beginner friendly race. We want you to be safe out there and experience of similar challenges will make you safer.

To enter, you must be aged 21 years or over at the time of the race.

If you have run an ultra over 80 miles, or have previously completed a Montane Spine Challenger event, then this will qualify you for the full race.

If you don’t meet these criteria, your experience can be drawn from other events. Mountain marathons, orienteering events, fell races, or expeditions similar to the Bob Graham Round are looked upon favourably. The more a challenge features mountainous terrain, moorland and elements of navigation the better. Mountain Rescue Team members, mountaineers and Armed Forces personnel will likely all have the experience necessary too.

If you feel you have the experience not mentioned here, include it in your entry form. We are also very happy to advise on what races, challenges or experiences you need to gain entry.

We would always highly recommend that every runner purchases appropriate insurance to cover the costs of your entry fee and your participation in any Montane Spine event should you not be able to take part.

The race has enormous infrastructure costs, most of which are fixed and committed up to twelve months in advance, which unfortunately prevents the option of a full refund. We want to be as fair as possible though, so while your entry fee includes a non-refundable deposit, if you notify us 100 days before the race, you will get a partial refund. Please read the T&Cs before you make your payment.

At each of the five main checkpoints (Hebden Hey, Hawes, Hardraw, Langdon Beck, Alston and Bellingham) Spinners are offered:

• Hot meals (such as pasta or porridge)
• Hot and cold drinks
• Somewhere to sleep (we recommend ear plugs and sleeping masks)
• Toilets and showers (at Hebden Hey, Hawes, Alston and Bellingham)
• Professional medical crew
• Your resupply bag
• Weather updates and race information
• Ample encouragement from friendly, helpful volunteers.

The Spine races are unsupported events, but you are welcome to utilise cafes and pubs along the route for sustenance and shelter. There’s some history of Spiners being offered sustenance by locals, which is a nice touch, so we deem that to be fine. What’s not ok is pacing, receiving planned support or having a private support vehicle follow your progress.

The total cost for The Montane Winter Spine is £1,195.

To secure your place, you can either pay in full when you enter or pay a deposit of £500. The remaining £695 will be due 100 days before race start. See below for the payment schedule.

Payments can be made online using your debit or credit card.