Montane Lakeland 50 & 100

The Montane Lakeland 50 & 100

The event comprises two long-distance trail races that follow public footpaths and bridleways through the Lake District fells. The full route is a circular 100 miles starting and finishing at Coniston. The 50-mile option covers the latter half of the course and starts at Dalemain Estate.

• 100 miles around the Lake District; about 6300 m ascent.
• 50 miles from Dalemain to Coniston; about 3000 m ascent.

The 100-mile course makes a clockwise loop from Coniston through the Dunnerdale fells, Eskdale, Wasdale and Buttermere to Keswick, then on to Matterdale, Haweswater, Kentmere, Ambleside and Elterwater before returning to Coniston.

The 50-mile route follows Ullswater’s eastern shore from Dalemain to Howtown, then climbs towards Haweswater and Mardale Head and continues via Long Sleddale, Kentmere, Ambleside, Langdale and Tilberthwaite to Coniston.

Both events use largely remote, rugged terrain with significant climb and descent and sections that require navigation. The 100-mile race is run continuously and does not require competitors to stop or sleep; the official time limit is 40 hours. The 50-mile event has a 24-hour time limit and is completed by a mix of runners and walkers. There are staffed, compulsory checkpoints with food and drink on each course : 14 on the 100 and 6 on the 50. Organisers state that strong navigation skills and prior fell experience are necessary and that many starters do not finish. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.