The best running trails around Longsleddale

Longsleddale offers a diverse range of terrain for runners. You'll find everything from challenging, rocky ascents in the upper valley, shaped by the Borrowdale Volcanic Group, to more gentle, verdant paths through wooded areas and pastoral landscapes further down. The valley is flanked by imposing high fells, providing varied experiences for all fitness levels.

Yes, Longsleddale has options for runners of all abilities. While many routes involve significant elevation, there are approximately 29 easy running routes available. These often follow the valley floor or lower, less steep paths, offering a more gentle introduction to running in the area.

Longsleddale is rich in natural beauty. You can encounter the picturesque River Sprint, which carves its way through the valley, featuring stunning waterfalls, especially near Sadgill. The valley is also bordered by significant fells like Kentmere Pike and Shipman Knotts, offering expansive views. Highlights you might pass include River Sprint itself, or viewpoints like Wansfell Pike summit and Orrest Head.

The running trails in Longsleddale vary significantly in difficulty. Out of nearly 470 routes, you'll find around 29 easy routes, 255 moderate routes, and 185 difficult routes. This means you can choose anything from a relatively flat valley run to a demanding fell run with considerable elevation gain, such as the View of Yoke – Thornthwaite Beacon loop from Kentmere, which covers over 18 km with more than 1000 meters of ascent.

Yes, many of the running routes in Longsleddale are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, you could try the River Sprint – Gurnal Dubs loop from Garnett Bridge, a moderate 9.9 km run, or the more challenging Grey Crag – Tarn Crag loop from Longsleddale.

The komoot community highly rates the running experience in Longsleddale, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Runners often praise the tranquil and unspoiled environment, the stunning natural beauty, and the variety of terrain that caters to different fitness levels. The sense of peace away from more crowded tourist spots is frequently highlighted.

Absolutely! The River Sprint, which flows through Longsleddale, is known for its series of beautiful waterfalls, especially in the upper valley near Sadgill. While specific running routes directly to every waterfall might vary, many paths along the valley will bring you close to these natural features. You can explore more about the Waterfalls around Longsleddale.

Longsleddale is an excellent destination for experienced runners seeking a challenge. Many routes involve significant elevation and cover substantial distances. For instance, the Potter Tarn – Gurnal Dubs Tarn loop from Selside is a difficult 15.1 km route with nearly 500 meters of ascent, offering a demanding and rewarding experience.

The distances of running routes in Longsleddale vary widely. You can find shorter, easier runs, but many routes are moderate to difficult, covering distances from around 9 km up to over 18 km. For example, the Summit of Kentmere Pike – Shipman Knotts summit loop from Kentmere is a challenging 12 km route.

Yes, Longsleddale is often described as a beautiful, unspoiled valley that offers peace and quiet away from the more crowded tourist spots in the Lake District. Its tranquil atmosphere makes it ideal for those seeking a serene trail running experience amidst stunning natural beauty, allowing for a truly immersive outdoor adventure.