Helvellyn Sky Ultra

Rab Helvellyn Sky Ultra 2026

The Rab Helvellyn Sky Ultra is a mountain running event located in Patterdale within the Lake District. The course covers a distance of 57 km and includes 3700 m of total ascent. Participants must complete the route within a maximum time limit of 14.5 hours.

The marked route crosses various types of terrain, including paths, trails, and rock sections throughout the Central and Eastern Fells. The course is designed to feature technical mountain terrain and includes traverses of three major ridgelines: Long Stile Edge, Swirral Edge, and Striding Edge. The event is designated as a "Sky Extra" race by Skyrunning UK.

While entries are not formally vetted, the organizers require participants to be at least 19 years old. It is recommended that runners have previous experience in mountain races or challenges of similar severity, such as completed 50 km mountain runs or significant mountain rounds in the UK.

The race provides several support features for participants:

• A fully marked course with GPS tracking and timing.
• One fully-supplied feed station and two valley support points.
• 11 manned checkpoints distributed along the route.
• A qualified mountain safety team and professional safety officer.

Finishers receive a seed bomb medal and post-race vegan salty soup. The event also offers ITRA and UTMB ranking points. Optional extras such as event t-shirts, post-race massages, and support team bells can be purchased separately. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.