Wildest Peaks Trail Run
Wildest Peaks Trail Run | Route Description
The route start point is approx a 10 minute walk from registration at the foot of the Burbage Valley; the run initially climbs steadily north on a wide, smooth gravel path all the way up to Upper Burbage Bridge. At this point things get a little more technical underfoot with some rocks and boulders to navigate; turning southwards a lovely traversing path bring runners to the foot of a short climb up and onto Higger Tor where if conditions are favourable there is a stunning panoramic view of the Hope Valley. A tricky descent (care required in places!) brings runners off the west side of the tor down onto another fantastic traversing, slightly downhill path across Hathersage Moor leading all the way down to the marshalled main road crossing by Millstone Edge.
After crossing the road the route drops down steeply through the old Bolehill quarry before emerging into the old woods of Padley – the running here is primarily in a ‘forest’ of silver birch trees and at this point the feel and surroundings change dramatically. The path through the woods is mainly fast, runnable and extremely enjoyable but with a couple of rocky ‘drops’ to watch out for. The routes split just above Padley Gorge with the short route turning left and heading up the valley back towards the Longshaw Estate**.
The long route having turned right at the split point descends further before passing Grindleford station & cafe before beginning the long/steady climb up through Nether Padley to Froggatt Edge. The main road crossing at The Haywood signifies the beginning of the long run along Froggatt and Curbar edges. The first section is still in the trees but you don’t have to wait long until you get to run in the open along the edge(s) proper. From now until the finish it could be pretty wild if the weather is poor as there is zero protection from elements for the rest of the run however any discomfort could well be ‘eased’ by the stunning nature of the surroundings – this is Peak District trail running at it’s very, very best. It is also worth noting that Froggatt Edge (which looks pretty level on the map) is not flat – you climb to begin with before descending to another road crossing at Curbar Gap.
After refuelling at the feed station it is almost time to head back for the finish but first there is one final short section on a wide sandy track along Baslow Edge to Wellington’s Monument. Heading east on a mixture of wide bridleways, footpaths and a section of minor road, runners then begin the long northwards trek across Big Moor. This bridleway is on a good grassy surface and it’s excellent moorland trail running with big open views and it feels miles away from anything even vaguely urban although Sheffield is only just over the hill. Enjoy!
Cross the Owler Bar road with care then it is onto Flask Edge (which can be a bit muddy/wet in places) until finally emerging onto Totley Moor. Exposed and wild this final section will certainly ensure the event lives up to its name! It is worth noting that underneath your feet at this point is the impressive 5.7km Totley railway tunnel (completed 1893) which connects Manchester and Sheffield – look out for the ventilation shaft on your right. With just about 1km to go take care crossing the main road and the route then returns to the grounds of Longshaw Estate and after a short steep descent it’s onto the final flat, fast section to the finish.
** Short route: the climb up the Padley Gorge after the split point is rocky and slow going in places – take your time and save your energy! Once you enter the Longshaw Estate the going becomes significantly faster, though it’s worth noting it is virtually uphill all the way to the finish – sorry!! The final section of run is flat though it can be quite wet and boggy in places.