The best running trails in Staffordshire

Staffordshire offers a vast network of over 2,600 jogging routes. These include a mix of easy, moderate, and difficult trails, ensuring options for every fitness level. You'll find approximately 250 easy routes, over 1,900 moderate routes, and around 450 challenging trails.

Staffordshire's diverse landscape provides a variety of terrains for runners. You can enjoy flat, well-maintained paths around reservoirs like at Chasewater Country Park, serene canal towpaths along the River Trent and Coventry Canal, or more challenging routes with significant elevation gain through the woodlands of Cannock Chase and the rugged gritstone ridges of the Peak District.

Yes, Staffordshire has several routes suitable for families. For a gentle, scenic run, consider the paths around Chasewater Country Park, which offers a flat 3-mile path. Cannock Chase also features the Stick Man Trail, which is popular with families, though specific running routes like the Brocton Camp Information Board – RAF Hednesford Memorial loop are moderate and offer varied terrain.

Many of Staffordshire's outdoor spaces are dog-friendly, particularly the extensive woodlands of Cannock Chase AONB and the canal towpaths. Always ensure your dog is under control, especially around wildlife or livestock. Routes like the Tolkien Trail Cannock Chase Walk are popular for runners with dogs, offering plenty of space to explore.

Absolutely! Many of Staffordshire's running routes are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the challenging Ilam Park to Wetton Circular Walk in the Peak District, the moderate The Roaches loop, and the easy Crassular Pool loop from Chasewater Railway Museum.

Staffordshire's routes offer numerous scenic spots. In the Peak District, you can encounter dramatic gritstone formations and stunning views from The Roaches Trig Point, or explore the unique Thor's Cave and the picturesque Dovedale Stepping Stones. Cannock Chase provides expansive woodland and heathland vistas. For historical interest, Kinver Edge offers dramatic views and ancient hill forts.

Yes, beginners will find several easy and relatively flat routes. The paths around Chasewater Country Park are ideal, such as the Running loop from Chasewater Railway Museum. Canal towpaths, like sections of the Trent and Mersey Canal, also provide gentle, even surfaces perfect for those new to running or looking for a relaxed jog.

The running routes in Staffordshire are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an impressive average rating of 4.4 stars from over 220 reviews. Runners frequently praise the diverse landscapes, from the quiet woodlands of Cannock Chase to the dramatic scenery of the Peak District, and appreciate the variety of routes available for all skill levels.

Absolutely. Staffordshire is rich in water features. Chasewater Country Park offers a beautiful waterside running experience around its large reservoir. The Dove Dale & Milldale loop takes you through the picturesque Dovedale Valley alongside the River Dove. Additionally, numerous canal towpaths, such as the Trent and Mersey Canal to The Coventry Canal running loop, provide flat routes with serene water views.

Yes, Staffordshire is home to extensive woodlands and forests, making it ideal for forest running. Cannock Chase AONB is a prime example, with routes like the Tolkien Trail Cannock Chase Walk winding through ancient woodlands and heathlands. The National Forest also covers parts of Staffordshire, offering hundreds of miles of paths through wooded areas.

Staffordshire is suitable for jogging year-round, but each season offers a different experience. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer is great for longer runs, especially in shaded woodland areas. Winter runs can be invigorating, particularly in areas like the Peak District, but require appropriate gear for potentially colder and wetter conditions. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Yes, you can combine your run with a visit to historical sites. Kinver Edge, for example, features ancient hill forts and the famous Holy Austin Rock Houses. While not directly on a running route in our guide, the Shugborough Estate, a National Trust property, offers beautiful parkland and ancient woodland that can be explored for a run with a historical backdrop.