The Lyon Equipment Mountain Trial
Patterdale, United Kingdom • 13 Sep 2026
The La Sportiva Lake District Mountain Trial
The Lake District Mountain Trial is an annual fell-racing event held at different venues in the Lake District in mid-September. The event tests route choice, navigational skill and stamina in difficult mountain country. Courses are severe and applicants are vetted for fell-running experience. The race is run under Fell Runners Association Rules.
The event offers multiple course options and categories. Competitors receive pre-marked waterproof maps. Electronic punching and scoring use the SportIdent system, with on-the-spot results. The entry fee includes post race food and an informal get together, and a range of prizes is awarded.
Recent and administrative notes: the 70th Mountain Trial took place on Sunday 14 September 2025 at Side Farm, Patterdale (nearest postcode CA11 0NL). The association held its AGM on Friday 21 November 2025; a talk titled "Trials and Challenges" was given. The date set for the following year is Sunday 13 September 2026.
Entry and age rules include:
- Classic: about 25 miles with 8,000 ft of ascent and descent.
- Medium: roughly three quarters of the Classic distance.
- Short: about half the Classic distance; includes a Pairs category.
Additional entry details: Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
- Standard entry fee £30.00 with a £1.50 discount for use of a personal SI card.
- Entry for anyone under 23 on race day £5.00, with a free loan SI card if required.
- Minimum age for single runners 18. Over 14s may run in a pair on the Short course if the accompanying runner is at least 21.