The route is mostly unmarked with a limited amount of route choice across surprisingly remote terrain. Whilst there are paths, most of the climbs and descents are off-piste so self-reliance, good navigational and sound mountain judgement is required. There will be directional canes from the descent of Fan Foel to show the best direction of descent down an initial gully and down the final descent ridge. There are a couple of stream crossings so competitors must carefully choose a safe crossing point – occasionally streams are in spate so please consider heading up stream. Please do not be tempted to use the reservoir access road, this is currently out of bounds due to ongoing maintenance work on the road itself and reservoir. In good weather the course is relatively benign but in limited visibility good map and compass skills will be required. You may use GPS for route finding but please let the RO know on the day so that you may be recorded as ‘non-competitive’.
General Area
Significant fell and mountain and/or less accessible or more remote areas
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Height
Up to approx 2,500 ft (750m)
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Terrain
Some moderately challenging terrain, e.g. reasonable tracks over moorland or good fell paths
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Exposure (drops) and hazards on or near route
Some exposure, possibly occasionally severe, and/or increased terrain risk (see left)
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Navigation skills required
Competent: possibly some waymarking but runners must be confident in self navigating without obvious features
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Mountain skills required
Competent: suitable only for skilled movers with increased problem solving and self-reliance required
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Escape routes
Limited escape routes; a fatigued or injured runner might require basic survival kit and skills
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Season time and effect of weather
Difficult conditions likely (e.g. winter/night) and/or route prone to bad weather or sudden changes; effect may be severe