If you’re registered, or planning to register, for Gaelforce 10K Trilogy, now is the time to focus on smart trail training.
Each event in the trilogy offers a unique challenge. From coastal climbs and forest tracks to technical mountain sections, these races demand strength, endurance and confidence on mixed terrain. The best way to prepare is simple: train on trails that reflect the demands of race day.
Ireland is fortunate to have some of the most scenic and varied trail running routes in Europe. Below are five locations to help you prepare effectively for Gaelforce 10K series.
1. Glendalough Spinc Trail – Wicklow Mountains
The Spinc and Glenealo Valley loop in Wicklow Mountains National Park is one of the most iconic trail routes in the country. With sustained climbs, boardwalk sections, rocky descents and stunning lake views, it provides ideal preparation for the varied terrain you’ll encounter in Gaelforce 10K Wicklow.
This route is excellent for building climbing strength and practicing downhill control, both essential for maintaining pace in trail races.
Why train here:
- Sustained elevation gain
- Technical footing
- Long, continuous trail sections
2. Diamond Hill – Connemara National Park
Diamond Hill offers a more demanding mountain-style run. Steeper gradients and exposed sections help develop leg power and aerobic capacity. While it is a tougher route, incorporating sessions here into your training plan will improve your overall resilience and climbing ability.
If you can run strong on Diamond Hill, you will feel more prepared for the sustained efforts required in the Gaelforce 10K events.
Why train here:
- Challenging inclines
- Open mountain terrain
- Strength-building environment
3. Howth Peninsula Trails – Dublin
If you’re targeting Gaelforce 10K Howth, there is no better place to train than the peninsula itself. The variety of loops around Ben of Howth and the cliff paths offer terrain that closely mirrors race day conditions.
Rolling hills, coastal wind exposure and uneven surfaces make this an ideal location for tempo trail sessions and race-pace practice.
Why train here:
- Similar elevation profile to race day
- Easily adjustable route distances
- Convenient access for Dublin-based runners
4. Bray Head and Greystones Cliff Walk – Wicklow Coast
For those preparing for Gaelforce 10K Bray, incorporating Bray Head into your weekly training is key. The climb is short but sharp, and repeated efforts here can significantly improve your hill-running efficiency.
Linking Bray Head with sections of the Greystones Cliff Walk allows you to practice steady pacing on undulating coastal trails, similar to the dynamic terrain found on race day.
Why train here:
- Strong hill repetition potential
- Coastal trail surfaces
- Ideal for race simulation
5. Ticknock and Fairy Castle – Dublin Mountains
Ticknock offers one of the most accessible and versatile trail running locations near Dublin. With multiple loop options and steady climbs toward Fairy Castle, it is perfect for structured hill sessions and midweek training.
The combination of forest trails and open mountain tracks helps runners build technical confidence while maintaining consistent mileage.
Why train here:
- Variety of loop distances
- Reliable hill training
- Close to Dublin for regular sessions
Training tips for Gaelforce 10K Trilogy
To maximise your performance across Bray, Howth and Wicklow:
- Include at least one hill-focused session each week
- Practice descending with control and confidence
- Train on mixed terrain rather than road surfaces
- Use trail-specific footwear for grip and stability
- Simulate race pace on uneven ground
Consistency on trails that replicate race conditions will significantly improve both performance and enjoyment on the day.
Your trail starts now
Gaelforce 10K Trilogy is more than a race series, it’s an opportunity to experience some of the best trail running terrain in Ireland. Preparing properly by training on challenging and varied routes will not only improve your race-day performance but also deepen your appreciation for the landscapes that make these events so special.
From the climbs of Glendalough and Diamond Hill to the coastal exposure of Howth and Bray, these training routes will build the strength and confidence you need to take on the Trilogy.
Ready to take on the challenge?
Whether you’ve already secured your place or are still considering it, now is the time to commit to your training. Explore these trails, build your endurance, and register for Gaelforce 10K Trilogy today.
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