Nestled deep within the Lake District between Eskdale and the Duddon Valley, Hardknott Pass is regarded by many cyclists as one of the most challenging climbs in the UK.

It’s not the length that gets you, it’s the steepness: the climb boasts a maximum gradient of 33% with regular pitches over 20%!

The Romans originally constructed this pass in 110 AD as a connecting road between their coastal fort and inland garrisons. Revived at the end of the 19th century as a dirt coach road, the 1911 Cyclists’ Touring Club’s Guide to North-West England described the road as “difficult going west, cruel coming east.”

Zwift’s segment is coming east. Good luck!

Here’s the official Strava segment used for the IRL climb’s listing in 100 Climbs