Trail Running Planet · Lake District · Derwentwater
Catbells from Keswick
You earn the Catbells summit the long way, with kilometres of lakeside running each side of the climb and no car needed from Keswick.
Distance
16.8 km
Ascent
431 m
Descent
429 m
Max elevation
447 m
Route type
Loop
Est. time
3h 30m – 4h 40m
Grade
Hard
Navigation
straightforward
Parking
CA12 5DJ
Dogs
Welcome
Best seasons
spring, summer, autumn, winter
About this route
A 16.8 km loop from Keswick that runs the length of Derwentwater's shore before climbing the Catbells (451 m) ridge. 235 m of ascent linking lake and Wainwright in one car free outing.
Hazards & notes
The summit rocky steps can be slippery in the wet and the ridge is exposed to wind. Lakeshore paths flood in places after prolonged rain.
Emergency
Call 999 or 112 → ask for Police → request Mountain Rescue. Register Emergency SMS: text "register" to 999.
Full route, GPX download & live conditions:
https://trailrunningplanet.com/routes/england/lake-district/derwentwater/catbells-from-keswick
trailrunningplanet.com