Hartsop Hop
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Hartsop Hop Fell Race
The Hartsop Hop is a traditional AM category fell race held in August. Established in 2025, the event takes place in the Lake District and covers a distance of 19.5 km (12 miles) with a total ascent of 1,370 m (4,500 ft). The course begins and ends at the sheep pens above Hartsop.
The race route involves several checkpoints and requires participants to make navigational choices:
- Rest Dodd: The first checkpoint reached after the start.
- Col beneath High Raise: Located north-east of Rampsgill Head, this is the second checkpoint and serves as a cut-off point. Runners must reach this location within 70 minutes.
- The Rigg: The third checkpoint, positioned after a steep descent to Haweswater.
- Lingmell End: The fourth checkpoint, followed by a runnable climb up Nan Bield Pass.
- Gray Crag: The fifth and final checkpoint before the descent back to the finish.
The final descent toward the sheep pens is very steep, and participants may choose between a direct line or a path that skirts the outcrops at 500m. The course features a mix of stony paths, steep drops, and runnable climbs.
Registration is limited to 130 participants. Full kit is required for all runners, including a hat or buff that covers the head. Punch controls are used at all checkpoints, some of which are unmarshalled. There is a fee for parking at the event site. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
