Hartsop Hop

Hartsop Hop

The Hartsop Hop is a fell running race held in Cumbria, starting and finishing at the sheep pens above the village of Hartsop in Patterdale. The event follows a challenging route of 19.5 km (12.15 miles) with a total ascent of 1370 m (4495 ft). The race is categorized as an AM fell race.

Participants navigate several checkpoints across the Lakeland fells:

• 19.5 km (Checkpoints include Rest Dodd, Rampsgill Head, The Rigg, Lingmell End, and Gray Crag)

The course begins with an immediate route choice toward Rest Dodd, the first checkpoint. The second checkpoint, located north-east of Rampsgill Head on the col below High Raise, serves as a cut-off point. Runners must reach this location within 70 minutes. Those who do not meet this time limit are required to retire and return via the path north of The Knott and Hayeswater.

The route continues with a descent to Kidsty Howes and a steep drop toward Haweswater before climbing to The Rigg. Runners then follow a stony path above the reservoir to reach the climb up Nan Bield Pass. After passing Lingmell End and the final checkpoint at Gray Crag, the course concludes with a steep final descent. Factors such as line choice during the descent from Kidsty Howes and Gray Crag can significantly impact race progress.

The event allows participants aged 18 and older. Registration typically opens in November for the following August race date. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.