Lake District Mountain Trial
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
The La Sportiva Lake District Mountain Trial
The La Sportiva Lake District Mountain Trial is a fellrunning event held at Seathwaite Farm, Borrowdale, Keswick, Cumbria on 13 September 2026. It is run on orienteering principles and described as a severe test of mountaineering ability, stamina and the safe and fast traverse of difficult and often dangerous terrain where navigational skill and route choice are as important as speed. The event has evolved from a race organised in 1952 and is the longest established event of its kind in Great Britain.
Entrants are vetted for experience and should provide sufficient information with their entry to allow the organisers to judge suitability, especially if they have not previously competed in the Mountain Trial.
Courses and key numbers:
- Classic Trial, around 18 miles, 7500 ft climb (29 km, 2300 m), minimum age 18
- Medium Trial, around 13 miles, 5000 ft climb (21 km, 1500 m), minimum age 18
- Short Trial, around 9 miles, 3500 ft climb (15 km, 1100 m), minimum age 18 or 14 in pairs
Entry details include a standard fee of £30 with a £1.50 discount for using an SI card, an under 23 fee of £5, and a possible £3 late entry surcharge subject to map availability. Hot food, map and dibber hire are included. Car parking is charged at £5 per car. Overnight camping is available at Seathwaite Farm Campsite. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
