Sticks Pass to Whiteside Fell — The Lake District

Tackle the challenging Sticks Pass to Whiteside Fell trail in the Lake District, a mountain biking adventure spanning 8.7 miles (14.0 km) with a significant 2362 feet (720 metres) of elevation gain. This route, typically completed in around 1 hour and 59 minutes, is rated as moderate to hard, demanding good fitness and advanced riding skills. You'll experience diverse terrain, from wide-open exposed sections at the summit offering 360-degree panoramic views, to narrower, heather-lined singletrack and steep, rocky switchbacks, including a precipitous scree slope leading into Glenridding. Prepare for sections described as "moonscape rocky" where you'll need to pick your own lines.

Planning your ride requires acknowledging the trail's technical demands; some portions, especially the climb up Keppel Cove, may necessitate hike-a-biking where you push or carry your bike. The route features challenging rock gardens, sweeping turns, and bouldery sections, alongside a few fords and tricky corners. Given its S2 to S6 rating on the Single Track Scale, with some parts considered black difficulty alpine singletrack, ensure you are prepared for a demanding ride.

Sticks Pass is celebrated as one of the Lake District's premier mountain biking descents, offering a sublime natural experience. The trail's unique blend of fast, open sections at the top transitioning into hugely fun switchbacks, combined with glimpses of disused mines, makes it a memorable ride. It's considered by many to be everything a mountain biker could want and more, providing a true test of skill and endurance amidst stunning natural beauty.