11k Run Rossendale: Scenic Ascent at Hail Storm Hill

Route Overview & Local Insights

Tackling this 10.8km loop around Hail Storm Hill offers a true taste of the rugged Pennine landscape. Starting with a shared out-and-back section, runners will face the bulk of the 250m ascent within the first mile and a half, reaching a peak elevation of 477m. The terrain is a classic moorland mix of gravel tracks and bare earth paths that can become notoriously muddy and heavy-going after a typical Rossendale downpour. With wide-open vistas and a remote feel, this route requires a steady pace and an eye on the horizon, as the exposed environment means you'll feel every bit of the Lancashire wind as you circumnavigate the summit.

Rossendale holds a unique place in England's industrial and natural heritage, and running through this area feels like stepping back into a world shaped by grit and resilience. Hail Storm Hill itself is the highest point of the Rossendale Forest, and while you run, you’ll be shadowed by the towering turbines of the Scout Moor Wind Farm—one of the largest onshore wind farms in England. Historically, these hills were the backdrop for the local textile industry, providing the water power for the valley's mills. Today, the area has transitioned from an industrial powerhouse to a haven for fell runners and outdoor enthusiasts looking to test their mettle against the unpredictable weather and technical trails of the South Pennines.