Four Passes is an absolutely classic 18(ish) mile route, with 5300ft of ascent taking in four of the Lake Districts most scenic valleys and their adjoining passes.
It’s a circular route, which from this year has a new base and will start and finish at Gatesgarth Farm close to the SE end of Butter mere
This year the first pass will be the old miners path that will take you to the Warnscale Bothy via Honister Pass. Even being the first it’s arguably the toughest climb of the day but you’ll be rewarded with stunning views back across Buttermere before you reach the top. The views all day are fantastic… but don’t forget to take a breath and look behind for those sights are equally as stunning! Once over you’ll descend past the slate mine and down in to Borrowdale.
You’ll then head along the valley past Seathwaite and over Stockley Bridge to Sty Head pass, which takes you to Sty Head Tarn situated between the Scafell massif and Great Gable before dropping to the beautiful but always dramatic Wasdale with Cumbria’s deepest lake and the second checkpoint.
Onto the third pass which is the long grind up and the technical descent from Black Sail Pass down to the Youth Hostel.
The fourth and final pass, Scarth Gap happens to be the easiest ascent of the day and gives views of Haystacks, Wainwrights resting place to the right before descending down the long drag towards Buttermere and the finish back at Gatesgarth Farm.
Entries include a full route description, timing, fully stocked checkpoints with a huge variety of food (you will be spoilt for choice), a proper cooked hot meal at the end and a medal for all finishers. A photographer will be in attendance throughout the event and their pictures will be shared free of charge after the event.
Start times are 8.30am for walkers and 9.30am for all runners and everyone must be finished by 6.30pm. This event is self navigated, and we do not mark any of this route. It is an incredibly easy one to follow but some navigation and map reading skills are recommended.
