Fell Running: Edale Skyline

The Edale Skyline is a tough fell race covering over 20 miles of rough terrain above the Edale valley in the Peak District.

Taking place early in the season it is unreliable in terms of weather conditions, some years warm and sunny, others with snow and runners suffering from hypothermia.
warm and sunny one year..
..seriously cold another
For the most part navigation is straightforward with the race following good paths over the main summits of Win Hill, Lose Hill and Mam Tor and the main route along the southern edge of the Kinder plateau.
good paths making navigation easy
There is however a notorious, remote section over Brown Knoll which in poor visibility can lead to runners going astray if they are not confident in using map & compass.  Additionally there are a couple of areas where a detour from the main path can gain valuable time and positions and where skilled navigators use their knowledge to good effect.
the notorious section in poor visibility
Kinder in poor visibility
I have worked with several runners keen to develop the skills needed to get them round the Skyline.  On a clear day it all seems obvious and route finding is easy, however on a foggy day things can get tricky. 
easy on a clear day
but tricky in hill fog
The Edale Skyline: Don’t underestimate it!

Contact me to arrange a guided run or navigation training: https://fellrunningguide.co.uk/

Posted in Blog, Fell running, Peak District.