The Maverick Lakes X-Trail

Trail Running in the Lake District

The Maverick Lakes X-Trail takes place in the Lake District, starting from Grasmere. The event offers five different course lengths through rugged fells and glacial ribbon lakes. The routes utilize technical terrain and include significant elevation gains, with the longest paths reaching summits such as Rydal Head and the Fairfield Horseshoe.

Participants can choose from the following distances:

• 52 km (50k Ultra) with 2858 m elevation gain
• 43 km (Marathon) with 2367 m elevation gain
• 25 km (Half Marathon) with 1131 m elevation gain
• 14 km (Middle) with 617 m elevation gain
• 9 km (Short) with 386 m elevation gain

The courses pass notable geographic features including Easdale Tarn, Stickle Tarn, and Loughrigg Tarn. Runners on the longer routes encounter technical descents and steep climbs. Outposts providing sweet and savoury snacks, gels, and electrolytes are available on most routes, though there are no outposts on the 14 km or 9 km distances. This event is plastic-free, requiring runners to carry their own reusable cups or bottles for water.

Mandatory equipment varies by distance. For the 52 km and 43 km routes, requirements include a waterproof jacket and trousers, a headtorch, a foil blanket, and a minimum of 800 calories. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by a participating adult. The event village at the Showfield provides bag drop, food and drink options, and a finishers medal for all competitors. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.