The best running trails around Cow Green Reservoir

There are over 7 dedicated running routes around Cow Green Reservoir listed on komoot, offering a variety of experiences for different fitness levels.

You can expect a diverse mix of terrain, including hard stony tracks, tarred roads around the reservoir shores, and sections of wild moorland. Some paths, particularly near Cauldron Snout, may involve scrambling, adding an adventurous element to your run.

Yes, the area features 4 difficult routes for experienced runners. For example, the Cow Green Reservoir and Dam – High Cup Nick loop from Cow Green Reservoir is a challenging 13.5-mile (21.7 km) path offering extensive views.

Joggers can encounter spectacular natural features such as the Cauldron Snout waterfall, where the River Tees plunges over 60 meters. You'll also experience the dramatic heather hillscapes of Widdybank Fell, unique geological formations like the Great Whin Sill, and pleasant riverside sections along the nascent River Tees.

Yes, several circular routes are available. A notable one is the Cow Green & Cauldron Snout — North Pennines route, which is a 9.2-mile (14.7 km) loop passing the dam and the spectacular Cauldron Snout.

The area is generally dog-friendly, but as it's part of the Moor House-Upper Teesdale National Nature Reserve, it's crucial to keep dogs on a lead to protect the rare Arctic and Alpine plants and local wildlife, especially ground-nesting birds and grazing Swaledale sheep.

The reservoir is within an internationally important National Nature Reserve, renowned for its rare Arctic and Alpine plants that survived since the last Ice Age. The unique Teesdale violet is also found here. The area's geology, including outcropping sugar limestone, adds to its distinct natural character.

There is a car park available at Cow Green Reservoir. Informational panels at the car park describe the reserve's geology, vegetation, animal life, and climate.

The komoot community highly rates the running trails around Cow Green Reservoir, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Over 70 runners have explored the varied terrain, often praising the wild moorland scenery and the dramatic Cauldron Snout waterfall.

The high-altitude environment means a cool climate, similar to Reykjavik, Iceland, making it pleasant for jogging during warmer months. The area is also recognized as a 'dark sky friendly site,' offering excellent opportunities for stargazing after an evening run.

Yes, the Cow Green Reservoir and Dam – High Cup Nick loop from Cow Green Reservoir is a popular option that provides extensive views of the reservoir and its dam.

To protect the fragile Arctic and Alpine plants and local wildlife, visitors are asked to keep to the paths. This helps maintain the delicate botanical balance of the Moor House-Upper Teesdale National Nature Reserve.

Yes, there are 3 moderate routes. For example, the High Force Waterfall – Footbridge over the River Tees loop from Youth Hostel is a moderate 10.9-mile (17.6 km) route that takes you past the impressive High Force Waterfall.