The best running trails around Saddleworth

Saddleworth offers a diverse range of running terrains, from rugged moorland and challenging fell running trails in areas like Saddleworth Moor and Dark Peak, to tranquil, flatter routes around scenic reservoirs such as Dovestone, Yeoman Hey, and Greenfield. You'll also find peaceful paths along the Huddersfield Canal. This variety caters to all fitness levels, from easy jogs on paved surfaces to demanding off-road runs.

Yes, Saddleworth boasts a vast network of running routes. There are over 150 routes available, offering a wide range of options for different abilities and preferences. The komoot community has explored these trails over 3000 times, highlighting the area's popularity among runners.

Absolutely. For an easy and scenic run, consider the Yeoman Hey & Greenfield Reservoirs route. This 3.8 km path offers beautiful water and moorland views and is mostly paved, making it suitable for any fitness level or beginners. The area around Dovestone Reservoir also features a mostly flat 2.5-mile circular walk, perfect for a leisurely jog.

Yes, many of Saddleworth's running routes are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Dovestone Reservoir – Yeoman Hey Reservoir loop from Greenfield is a moderate 7.7 km circular route offering beautiful reservoir views. Another option is the Pots and Pans Stone loop via Alderman's Hill, a 3.9 km moderate trail that takes you past an iconic landmark.

For those seeking a challenge with significant elevation, Saddleworth's moorland terrain is ideal. The Standedge Circuit is a difficult 12.2 km route featuring varied terrain and over 300 meters of elevation gain, offering expansive views. The rugged moorland, part of the Peak District National Park, provides excellent opportunities for fell running with demanding trails.

Saddleworth is rich in scenic landmarks and viewpoints. You can run past iconic features like Higher Shelf Stones Summit and Trig Point, offering excellent views over peat bogs and gritstone landscapes. The Bleaklow Head provides breathtaking panoramic views from its 2,077-foot elevation, and the distinctive gritstone formation of The Trinnacle offers stunning vistas overlooking the moor and Greenfield Reservoir.

Yes, Saddleworth's landscape includes some beautiful waterfalls. You might encounter Birchen Clough Waterfall or Hern Clough, which are notable natural monuments in the gorges around Saddleworth. These can add a refreshing element to your run, especially after rainfall.

Saddleworth offers great running opportunities year-round, but conditions vary. Spring and summer provide milder weather and vibrant landscapes, ideal for exploring the moorland and reservoirs. Autumn brings beautiful colours to the scenery. Winter runs can be challenging due to colder temperatures and potentially wet or icy conditions on higher ground, but can also offer unique, crisp experiences, especially on lower, more sheltered routes.

Many of Saddleworth's charming villages, such as Uppermill, Delph, and Diggle, offer amenities like shops and cafes, making them convenient starting points or refreshment stops. While specific routes aren't designed solely around pub stops, you can often plan your run to pass through or near these villages to enjoy a well-deserved break.

The running routes in Saddleworth are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.8 stars. Runners frequently praise the diverse landscapes, from the challenging moorland to the tranquil reservoir paths, and the rewarding panoramic views from various peaks. The variety of routes ensures there's something for every ability.

For those looking for longer runs, Saddleworth has several options. The Black Moss Reservoir – Wessenden Reservoir loop from Standedge Road Cutting is a moderate 12.6 km route, offering a substantial distance through scenic reservoir landscapes. The Standedge Circuit also provides a challenging 12.2 km run with significant elevation.