The best running trails in North Yorkshire

Embark on the Three Peaks Challenge in Yorkshire Dales National Park, a truly difficult jogging route that spans 25.2 miles (40.6 km) and climbs a significant 4649 feet (1417 metres) of elevation. This demanding journey, which you can aim to complete in around 5 hours and 14 minutes, takes you over the iconic peaks of Pen-y-ghent, Whernside, and Ingleborough. Expect varied and challenging terrain, from rough moorland to rocky scrambles on Pen-y-ghent, and steep descents from Whernside. Along the way, you'll be rewarded with magnificent panoramic views across the Dales, potentially seeing Morecambe Bay and the Lakeland hills on clear days, with the impressive Ribblehead Viaduct as a notable landmark. The route offers a rigorous test of endurance and sure-footedness over its diverse surfaces.

To successfully jog the Three Peaks Challenge, you will need very good fitness and significant training, including long runs with steep hills. The route is seriously tough, so prepare for substantial climbing and often steep descents over uneven ground. Given the likelihood of damp and muddy conditions across the moorland sections, especially on Pen-y-ghent's rocky terrain and Whernside's long ridge, waterproof footwear is highly recommended. This challenge is typically undertaken within 12 hours, even for hikers, so your jogging pace will require excellent physical condition and careful navigation.

The Three Peaks Challenge is notable for its demanding goal of summiting all three iconic peaks within a single effort, making it a popular choice for individuals and groups, often undertaken for charity. The route traverses a designated National Park, showcasing the stunning natural beauty and unique geological landscape of the Yorkshire Dales, shaped by Carboniferous limestone and glacial activity. Each peak, Pen-y-ghent, Whernside, and Ingleborough, offers its own distinctive character and views, contributing to the historical and geological intrigue of this renowned endurance test.

Prepare for a difficult jogging challenge on the Three Peaks Walk to Pen-y-ghent, a route that covers 6.6 miles (10.7 km) with a significant elevation gain of 1486 feet (453 metres). You can expect to complete this in about 1 hour and 19 minutes. As you ascend, you will be treated to panoramic views across the stunning Yorkshire Dales National Park. Keep an eye out for the distinctive 'lion-shaped' profile of Pen-y-ghent itself, a prominent landmark in the area. From the summit, you might even glimpse other famous peaks like Ingleborough and Whernside, and on exceptionally clear days, the distant Lake District.

Before you set out, be aware that the trail can become quite boggy, especially after rain. The scramble near the summit demands extra caution when conditions are wet or icy, so always check the weather forecast beforehand. Horton-in-Ribblesdale serves as a popular starting point for this circular route, offering convenient amenities such as parking and cafes to help you prepare for your journey. Planning your visit around drier weather will enhance your experience on the exposed sections of the path.

This trail is notable for its unique geological features, including Hull Pot, which is reputed to be the largest natural hole in England. The distinctive tiered shape of Pen-y-ghent makes it a recognizable and iconic peak within the Yorkshire Dales. This route offers a rewarding experience for those seeking a challenging jog through a landscape rich in natural beauty and geological interest.

The Simon's Seat & River Wharfe loop from Bolton Abbey is a difficult jogging route, spanning 11.4 miles (18.4 km) with a substantial 1598 feet (487 metres) of elevation gain. Expect to complete this challenging trail in about 2 hours and 10 minutes, requiring a very good fitness level. You will traverse diverse terrain, from well-maintained paths along the River Wharfe to rugged moorland with rocky tracks and potentially boggy sections. The highlight is the climb to Simon's Seat, a cluster of massive gritstone rocks offering panoramic views across the Yorkshire Dales and Wharfedale. Along the way, you'll experience a landscape of contrasts, including the distinctive Valley of Desolation with its waterfall.

This trail begins at Bolton Abbey, a historic estate that serves as an excellent starting point for your adventure. While the research does not specify parking details or public transport options, starting from a well-known location like Bolton Abbey often implies accessible facilities. Be prepared for varied conditions, as the terrain includes paved paths, unpaved sections, gravel, and natural surfaces. Given the significant elevation and rugged sections, especially on the moorland, it's wise to check weather conditions before you go, as boggy areas can be more challenging after rain.

What makes this route particularly notable is its blend of natural phenomena and historical surroundings. You'll encounter The Strid, a dramatic narrowing of the River Wharfe where the water is forced through rocks, creating a powerful and visually striking flow. While beautiful, The Strid is notoriously dangerous due to strong undercurrents, so always stay well back from the edge. The trail also allows you to experience the natural beauty of the Bolton Abbey Estate, providing a rich context to your challenging jog through the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

Embark on a challenging jogging adventure with the Whitby & Robin Hood's Bay loop, covering 12.9 miles (20.7 km) and gaining 839 feet (256 metres) in elevation. This route offers a dynamic experience, blending the rugged coastal path with the smoother, tree-lined Cinder Track. You will jog past the historic Whitby Abbey perched on the cliffs and through the charming, cobbled streets of Robin Hood's Bay, all within an estimated 2 hours and 23 minutes.

Planning your visit requires acknowledging the route's difficult grading, primarily due to the coastal sections. Be prepared for uneven ground, craggy steps, and potentially slippery surfaces, especially after rain. While the Cinder Track provides an easier jogging surface, keep an eye out for occasional potholes and areas with poor drainage. Proper footwear and awareness of conditions are essential for an enjoyable run.

This loop is notable for its striking contrasts in scenery and terrain, showcasing the dramatic North Sea views alongside the tranquil Esk Valley. The Cinder Track, a former railway line, offers a unique historical element, including majestic views from the iconic Larpool Viaduct. It's a fantastic way to experience the diverse landscapes and rich heritage of the North York Moors National Park.

Embark on a challenging jogging route through the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. This 7.2-mile (11.6 km) circular trail takes you past the dramatic limestone cliffs of Gordale Scar, where you will encounter towering rock formations and waterfalls. You will gain 694 feet (212 metres) in elevation, making it a difficult route that typically takes around 1 hour and 29 minutes to complete. The varied terrain includes rocky paths and sections that can be muddy, offering a true test for experienced trail runners.

When planning your visit, be aware that the ascent through Gordale Scar involves a scramble up steep, water-worn rock. This section can be very slippery, especially after rain, so you will need good fitness, sure-footedness, and sturdy shoes. If you prefer to avoid this scramble, an alternative route is available. The limestone pavement at Malham Cove also requires careful footing due to its uneven surface and deep fissures, so watch your step as you enjoy the views.

This route offers a diverse journey through iconic landscapes, showcasing the unique geology of the Dales. Beyond Gordale Scar, you will reach the peaceful Malham Tarn, an upland lake providing serene views before heading towards the impressive Malham Cove. This curved limestone formation features a distinctive pavement at its summit, offering expansive vistas across the surrounding countryside. It is a rewarding experience for anyone seeking a demanding outdoor adventure.

Embark on a difficult jogging adventure through the North York Moors National Park, tackling the Captain Cook's Monument & Roseberry Topping loop from Great Ayton. This challenging route spans 7.0 miles (11.2 km) and features a significant 1081 feet (330 metres) of elevation gain. You will experience diverse landscapes, from ancient woodlands to expansive open moorland. The distinctive Roseberry Topping, often called "Yorkshire's Matterhorn," offers panoramic 360-degree views from its summit. Expect varied terrain, including steep climbs and descents, which contribute to the estimated 1 hour and 25 minutes duration.

Before you set out on this difficult jogging route, ensure you are well-prepared. Good fitness levels are essential, and proper footwear is highly recommended due to the steep sections and uneven surfaces you will encounter. Parking is generally available in Great Ayton, which serves as a convenient starting point for the loop. Always consider checking local weather forecasts for the Roseberry Topping area before you go, as conditions on the moors can change quickly.

This route is notable for combining two iconic landmarks of the North York Moors. Beyond the panoramic views from Roseberry Topping, you will also encounter Captain Cook's Monument on Easby Moor. This monument provides superb vistas across the Cleveland Hills and down into Great Ayton, offering a different perspective of the surrounding landscape. The trail's varied terrain and significant elevation make it a rewarding challenge for experienced joggers.

This moderate 6.4-mile (10.3 km) jogging loop from Ravenscar offers a varied experience, taking about 1 hour and 6 minutes to complete with 465 feet (142 metres) of elevation gain. You will jog along the historic Cinder Track, a former railway line, which provides fantastic coastal views and glimpses of heather-clad hillsides. The route also incorporates sections of the Cleveland Way, a clifftop path with panoramic vistas across Robin Hood's Bay and out to the North Sea. Expect a mix of surfaces, from well-surfaced track to gravel, dirt roads, and some potentially bumpy or muddy sections, especially on the final ascent to Ravenscar. You will pass through woodlands and moorland, enjoying diverse scenery throughout your run.

While the Cinder Track itself is generally flat, the inclusion of the Cleveland Way introduces more challenging elements, with some steep up and down sections. Some paths connecting the Cinder Track and the coast can be very boggy, so good boots are recommended, especially after rain. The trail can become muddy and rough in winter or after significant rainfall, so plan your visit accordingly. Be prepared for varied terrain that can be rougher in places, requiring careful footing.

This route is rich in history, featuring the well-preserved Ravenscar Radar Station, a significant World War II Chain Home Low site built in 1941. You can explore the remains of several brick buildings, including a transmitter/receiver block and engine house. Ravenscar itself is known as "the town that never was," a fascinating example of a Victorian resort that never fully materialized. The Cinder Track also showcases remnants of its railway past, such as old stations and bridges, adding to the unique character of your jog.