Explore the Ennerdale Horseshoe
Location: Ennerdale and Kinniside, Cumberland
Route description
This challenging high-level route follows much of the line of the famous Ennerdale Fell Race, taking in some of the finest mountain terrain in the Lake District. While it shares much of the character of the classic Ennerdale Horseshoe, it does not visit all of the traditional horseshoe summits, instead following a more direct line around the head of Ennerdale.
Starting from Bleach Green Car Park, the route quickly gains the surrounding fells before traversing a series of exposed ridges and summits with extensive views across the Western Fells. The terrain is varied throughout, ranging from runnable grassy ridges to rough, rocky mountain ground where careful footing and navigation are essential. The crossing of Pillar is a particular highlight, offering a real sense of remoteness and mountain commitment.
Water sources are limited. The only reliable water on the route is at Black Beck Tarn (GR 201129). There is little or no surface water on the return leg beyond Beck Head, so runners should plan accordingly, particularly in warm weather.
Navigation skills are important, especially in poor visibility. Common mistakes include descending towards Buttermere from High Crag or heading south from Red Pike into Wasdale, both of which can result in significant route deviations. Care is also required on the descent from Kirk Fell to Black Sail Pass, where steep and rocky ground can be both difficult and hazardous.
After the tougher, rockier sections around Pillar and Kirk Fell, the character of the route changes. The final 10 km follows increasingly runnable terrain, with long stretches of lower-angled grassy slopes allowing strong runners to maintain a good pace. If energy has been conserved earlier in the route, this final section offers an opportunity for fast and rewarding running back towards Ennerdale.
This is a demanding mountain route requiring good fitness, sound navigation, and respect for rapidly changing weather conditions, but it rewards the effort with some of the most dramatic and remote scenery in the Lake District.