The best running trails around Ravenstonedale

Ravenstonedale offers a good selection of running routes, with over 20 trails mapped on komoot. These range from easy paths to more challenging fell runs, catering to various fitness levels.

Yes, Ravenstonedale has several routes suitable for beginners or those looking for an easier run. You'll find 3 easy routes and 11 moderate routes, often following gentler paths through valleys or along disused railway lines, such as those found in the tranquil Smardale Nature Reserve.

The terrain around Ravenstonedale is incredibly diverse. You can expect everything from the green, flat-topped Howgill Fells with their steep slopes for challenging climbs, to tranquil valley meanders, and unique limestone pavements of areas like Orton Scar. The Smardale Lime Kilns – Smardale Gill Viaduct loop, for example, offers a mix of paths through a nature reserve.

Yes, many of the running routes in Ravenstonedale are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. A popular option is the Turn to Adamthwaite – The Fat Lamb Country Inn loop from Ravenstonedale, which is a moderate 9.7 km (6.0 miles) circular trail.

The area is rich in natural beauty and viewpoints. You could encounter dramatic limestone pavements, tranquil valleys like Bowderdale, or even the impressive Wild Boar Fell Summit Shelter, which offers expansive views. The View of the Vale of Eden – Wild Boar Fell Summit Shelter loop is a challenging route that provides stunning vistas.

While Ravenstonedale is known for its fells and valleys, you can find routes that lead to or near water features. For instance, the nearby Cautley Spout Waterfall is a notable natural monument in the wider area. For lakes, you might explore routes around Sunbiggin Tarn or Paradise Tarn.

Many trails in the Ravenstonedale area are dog-friendly, especially those on public footpaths and bridleways. However, it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, particularly when passing through farmland with livestock or in nature reserves like Smardale, to protect wildlife and farm animals.

For families, routes with gentler gradients and well-maintained paths are ideal. The disused railway track through Smardale Nature Reserve, which crosses an impressive viaduct, offers a relatively flat and scenic experience that can be enjoyed by families. Consider routes like the Smardale Lime Kilns – Smardale Gill Viaduct loop from Ravenstonedale for a pleasant family outing.

The running routes in Ravenstonedale are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from more than 5 reviews. Runners often praise the varied terrain, the tranquility of the valleys, and the stunning views from the fells, making for a rewarding outdoor experience.

Ravenstonedale offers great running opportunities year-round. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer allows for longer daylight hours. Even in winter, the fells and valleys can be stunning, though conditions may be more challenging. The area's annual 'Ravenstonedale 10K' road race in summer highlights its suitability for running events during warmer months.

To find less crowded routes, consider exploring some of the more challenging fell runs or those that venture deeper into the valleys away from popular village starting points. The vastness of the Howgill Fells and areas like Bowderdale Valley offer plenty of opportunities for a peaceful run. The Bowderdale Valley – View of Bowderdale Valley loop is a longer, more difficult route that might offer more solitude.

Ravenstonedale village itself has amenities, including pubs and cafes, where you can refuel after your run. Some routes, like the Turn to Adamthwaite – The Fat Lamb Country Inn loop, are specifically designed to pass by local establishments, offering convenient stops for refreshments.