Coledale Horseshoe from Braithwaite — Lake District National Park

The Coledale Horseshoe from Braithwaite is a difficult 8.8-mile (14.2 km) route in the Lake District National Park, offering a challenging experience with 2963 feet (903 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect a diverse and often technical terrain, including steep ridge paths, sections of scree, and broad grassy tops. Some parts feature rocky steps that may require simple scrambling, while others can be boggy or involve pushing through heather and thick bracken. This route is better suited for experienced fell runners or strenuous hiking, rather than casual jogging, and typically takes around 2 hours and 25 minutes to complete.

As you traverse this horseshoe-shaped route around the Coledale Beck valley, you will find yourself on rough fell paths, some very steep and stony. The trail provides spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding fells, including Skiddaw, Blencathra, and the Scafell range. From Grisedale Pike, one of the peaks on the route, you can enjoy superlative views, while Crag Hill, the highest point, offers stunning vistas down the Coledale Valley, encompassing Derwentwater, Bassenthwaite Lake, and Crummock Water.

This classic Lake District round is renowned for taking in multiple Wainwright fells, such as Grisedale Pike, Hopegill Head, Crag Hill, Sail, Outerside, and Barrow. Alfred Wainwright himself praised a section of the southern ridge over Scar Crags and Causey Pike as a grand ridge walk. The route's demanding nature is underscored by its role as host to the Coledale Horseshoe Fell Race, confirming its suitability for experienced fell runners. Due to the steep climbs, mild scrambles, and exposure on high-level ridges, it is not recommended to attempt this route in poor visibility or strong winds.