The Borrowdale Bash, Keswick to Birkett's Leap

This route is considered advanced and physically demanding, often described as a 'red' grade trail. It features long, steep road climbs and numerous technical rocky descents. Riders should have strong mountain biking skills and good fitness.

The terrain is diverse, including a mix of singletrack, bridleways, and road sections. You'll encounter steep road climbs, particularly towards Honister Pass, and technical rocky descents. Sections like Birkett's Leap are known for being extremely technical, steep, rough, and loose, requiring precise line choice. Despite the technicality, the ground is often quick-draining, offering surprisingly good grip even when wet.

The route offers spectacular scenery throughout. Notable viewpoints include View of Derwent Water from Surprise View and another View of Derwent Water. You'll also pass by iconic landmarks such as Ashness Bridge, Watendlath Tarn, Honister, Castle Crag, and Grange, all set against the dramatic backdrop of the Lake District fells.

The Borrowdale Bash is generally rideable in most weather conditions due to its quick-draining ground and good grip on rock. However, for the most enjoyable experience with the best views and milder conditions, late spring to early autumn (May to October) is usually ideal. Be prepared for changeable weather in the Lake District at any time of year.

As this route typically starts and ends in Keswick, parking is available in various car parks within the town. Consider options like the Central Car Park or Lakeside Car Park in Keswick, which provide good access to the start of the loop. Always check local parking regulations and fees.

No specific permits are required for mountain biking on public bridleways and byways within the Lake District National Park. However, standard parking fees apply in designated car parks. Always adhere to the Countryside Code, respect private land, and stay on marked trails.

While dogs are generally welcome in the Lake District, this particular route is a challenging mountain bike trail. If you choose to bring your dog, ensure they are extremely fit, well-behaved, and capable of keeping up with a fast-paced, technical ride. Dogs must be kept on a lead, especially near livestock, and you should be prepared for sections where you might need to dismount and walk your bike, potentially with your dog alongside.

The komoot route for The Borrowdale Bash, Keswick to Birkett's Leap, is estimated to take approximately 2 hours 32 minutes of riding time. However, given its challenging nature, technical sections, and the stunning scenery, allow ample extra time for breaks, photo opportunities, and navigating the more difficult parts. It's considered a 'big day out' for many riders.

Yes, the route shares sections with several other paths. Notably, it follows parts of the Cumbria Way (26%), Downstream to Derwent Walk, Borrowdale and Derwent Water (17%), and Castle Crag from Seatoller Trail: The Scenic Route, North Lakes Outdoors (17%). You'll also find smaller sections overlapping with the Coast to Coast Walk (St Bees to Shap) and the Allerdale Ramble.

Birkett's Leap is renowned as one of the most technical bridleways in the Lake District. It's characterized by being steep, rough, and loose, demanding advanced riding skills and precise line choice. While it can look intimidating, many experienced riders find it fast, fun, and challenging, often describing it as a highlight of the Borrowdale Bash.

Beyond the technicality of Birkett's Leap, riders should be prepared for significant climbing, including a long road ascent almost up to Honister Slate Mines. The descent into Grange, specifically the Descent Into Grange, also presents technical challenges. While most of the trail is rideable, some short 'hike-a-bike' sections might be necessary for certain riders.