Rob´s Running Diaries
May 12, 2025
Welcome to Rob's Running Diaries — sharing authentic trail running experiences
Welcome to Rob's Running Diaries — sharing authentic trail running experiences
Discover Rob's Running Diaries, where Rob, our trail running guide from England, takes you on his adventures in the mountains.
Welcome to Rob's Running Diaries, where he shares authentic trail running experiences and inspires you for your next outdoor adventure. This time, he's taking you on a stunning trail in Eskdale, Lake District. Curious what it really means to discover new trails, push your limits, and experience the natural beauty of the Lake District? Then read on, because this is a story you won't want to miss.
Meet Rob, Your Trail Guide in the Lake District
I'm Rob, an enthusiastic trail runner and guide with years of experience exploring the most beautiful and challenging routes in the Lake District. My goal is to introduce you to these trails that combine adventure, breathtaking views, and learning about the surrounding area. Whether you're new to trail running or already have experience, I'd love to take you on my full outdoor adventure, full of discovery.
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The Trail: Climbing Harter Fell, Eskdale
Trailhead: Start and First Exploration in the Lake District
On a beautiful, sunny day in the Lake District, I decided to explore the neighboring valley of Eskdale, where I hadn't hiked much before. My goal was Harter Fell, a 650-meter mountain with rocky outcrops that I could see from the road and that I longed to climb.
I didn't know exactly how long the route would take or how far I would go, but the sun was shining, and I was just happy to be outside. I had an idea of a trail to follow, but always left room for side paths and new discoveries. My navigation is usually good, so I felt confident.
The Climb to the Top and the Descent
The Climb: To the Summit
After ten minutes, I decided to take off my shirt to avoid sweating. The trail was narrow and went through a forest, which suddenly turned into a steep climb.
I found rocks to scramble over along the way, and after a few hours, I carefully reached the summit. What a view! Mountains, valleys, forests, the sea, and even the Isle of Man visible in the distance.
The Descent: Freedom and Fun
After a snack of jelly shots and a pear, I jumped downhill. It was fantastic—just letting my legs go, trusting my feet, and running carefree downhill. It felt like flying, completely in the moment.
Off-Piste Adventure and Natural Beauty
Off-piste and back home
Then I followed another trail that ran along hills, towards my car. I went off-piste into the woods and walked along the River Esk, crossing some familiar stepping stones. Then I closed my route by rejoining the trail on the other side of the river and returned to the car park.
The natural beauty and the ending
The surroundings were in full bloom: blue flowers, yellow bunting, and a forest of oak, beech, and birch, all green and vibrant. To end the day, I took a dip in the river, where a small waterfall gave me a natural massage. A refreshing and incredibly pleasant end to a beautiful trail run.
Want to try trail running in England? Book a weekend trail running with Rob now!
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