Upton Towans 5

Route Overview & Local Insights

The Upton Towans 5 offers a pristine 4.9km trail loop that captures the wild essence of the West Cornwall coast. Starting near Connor Downs, this anti-clockwise circuit is a runner's playground of sandy singletrack, soft grassy paths, and undulating dunes. With a gentle 21m of vertical gain, it isn't "hilly" in the traditional sense, but the shifting sands underfoot provide a deceptive and rewarding strength workout. Expect a tranquil experience where the terrain requires constant focus, making it an ideal choice for trail runners looking to escape the tarmac and sharpen their technical footwork on a natural, unpaved surface.

Rich in both biodiversity and industrial history, the "Towans"—the Cornish word for sand dunes—at Upton are a Site of Special Scientific Interest. As you navigate the heathland, you are actually running through a landscape that once housed the National Explosives Works. The ruins of old bunkers and walls, now reclaimed by nature, were originally designed to contain accidental blasts during the late 19th century. Today, the area is far more serene, serving as a vital habitat for rare orchids and butterflies. Keeping an eye out for the local wildlife adds a layer of discovery to your miles in this unique coastal ecosystem.