Tips for trail running: A novice in the Leeds area
If you are an aspiring trail runner or hiker, but aren’t sure of how to get started, you may benefit from these trail tips by Niggly Knee Running Club.
Do you enjoy spending time outdoors? Or searching for the next adventure? Read on.
Terrorised by tarmac
It is likely that you have already spent time running on roads and back streets, but you are probably becoming bored of slogging along the never-ending tarmac, counting cars and wishing it was over.
There’s no need to be afraid, you are not alone. We have been in your position. Races like the London Marathon or The Great North Run are bucket list races for most runners, experienced, amateur and alike. But with the record-breaking number of applications for 2025, surely it’s time to redirect your efforts and finances.
Trail running offers a sense of freedom and relaxation that dodging cars and people cannot offer. However, we’re not saying it’s easy, it is hard work and almost ankle breaking, but very rewarding. You just need to give it time.
Where can I find these trails?
It is tough if you live in the city surrounded by people, lights, and noise, but many places tend to have introductory trails / paths into nature, usually not far out of the city… epic right! For example, just outside the city centre of Leeds, you can find some great trails and paths in a place called Meanwood.
It’s not just Leeds which offers muddy adventures, Yorkshire is a trail haven. Being home to the Peak District, Dales, and North Yorkshire Moors, there are approximately 2000 spectacular routes of varied distance, elevation, and terrain. All of which can be found on these trail planner applications, All Trails and Strava.
As these places are more rural, they are less accessible for those without a car, but trains are still a great option. For example, you can depart a train at Ribblehead Viaduct, and begin a run around the Yorkshire Three Peaks, just remember to pack appropriately and take a little cash for a refreshing ice cream from one of the vans near the famous viaduct.
You could even join a local running or hiking club, this would aid in meeting like minded people, it offers travel opportunities and also safety. You should always inform family or friends or a local shop, if you are planning on going for a trip on the trails. Most running clubs have Facebook groups you could reach out to.
Running Clubs
Wharfedale Harriers – A fell running organisation based in Silsden which has been operating for approximately 25 years. They encourage runners and outdoor enthusiasts of all abilities to join the club and community for social and more competitive running. They meet on a Monday and Tuesday in Silsden.
Leeds Mountaineering Club – The predominantly climbing and walking club have a variety of meet ups throughout the year, which cater to seasonal activities. Through the spring and summer months, they tend to meet for a climb at a crag or for a walk in the Peak District or Yorkshire Dales National Park. Through winter, they have a couple of hut meets per month in a mountainous area in the UK for a scramble or climb. As well as sessions of indoor climbing at the big depot in Leeds.
Conclusion
It is becoming ever so difficult to enter the bucket list races, since more people are now becoming obsessed with the finish line insta pic! Turning your attention to ultra running or trail running, is a completely understandable and recommended idea. Not all areas are as lucky as Leeds to have such accessible routes, hence why you should always turn to apps like Strava or All Trails to find your already created routes.
Meeting people via running groups is a great way of seeing the outdoors and making friends.
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