The best running trails around Harlaw Reservoir

The running trails around Harlaw Reservoir offer a varied terrain. You'll find a mix of accessible, paved paths, especially around the reservoir edges, as well as sections that may require more sure-footedness. Routes often combine lakeside trails with peaceful runs through wooded areas and open paths, providing diverse experiences.

Yes, Harlaw Reservoir caters to all fitness levels. You can find easy strolls and flatter options around the reservoir edges, as well as more challenging runs with significant elevation changes as routes extend into the surrounding Pentland Hills. For example, the Bavelaw Castle Drive – Maiden's Cleugh loop is a difficult 10.3-mile path with considerable elevation, while the Threipmuir Reservoir loop is a moderate 3.5-mile trail.

While running, you'll be treated to stunning views across Harlaw Reservoir towards the Pentland Hills, with peaks like Black Hill, Turnhouse, and West Kip visible. The area features interconnected reservoirs, peaceful wooded sections, and the Harlaw wildlife garden. You might also notice interesting Lower Carboniferous sedimentary rocks and, if you're observant, fossilized plant spores on the eastern shore.

Yes, there is a small visitor centre located near the dam, which serves as a convenient starting point and typically offers parking facilities for those exploring the area. It's a popular spot for runners, dog walkers, and cyclists.

Harlaw Reservoir is a great destination for running year-round. The diverse landscapes and well-maintained trails make it enjoyable in various seasons. However, for the most pleasant conditions, spring and autumn often offer mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Always check local weather forecasts, especially during winter, as some sections might be more challenging.

Yes, the trails around Harlaw Reservoir are very popular with dog walkers and runners. It's generally a dog-friendly area, but always ensure your dog is under control, especially around wildlife and other visitors, and adhere to any local signage regarding leash requirements or protected areas.

A small visitor centre is situated near the dam at Harlaw Reservoir, which can provide basic facilities. For more extensive options like cafes or pubs, you would likely need to venture a short distance into nearby communities, as the immediate area around the reservoir is primarily natural parkland.

Komoot features over 450 running routes around Harlaw Reservoir, offering a wide variety of options for different distances and difficulty levels. This includes 47 easy routes, 276 moderate routes, and 127 difficult routes, ensuring there's something for every runner.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 180 reviews. Runners often praise the stunning views of the Pentland Hills, the variety of terrain from lakeside paths to wooded sections, and the well-maintained trails that cater to different fitness levels. The interconnected reservoirs also allow for extended and scenic runs.

Absolutely. For experienced runners seeking a challenge, routes like the Bavelaw Castle Drive loop from Lennox Tower offer a difficult 7.8-mile (12.6 km) path with significant elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Bavelaw Castle Drive – Maiden's Cleugh loop, which is 10.3 miles (16.7 km) long and features substantial climbs through the wider Pentland Hills landscape.

Yes, many of the running routes around Harlaw Reservoir are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. A popular example is the Pentland Hills Access Road – Threipmuir Reservoir loop, which is a 5.9-mile (9.5 km) circular route offering views across both Harlaw and Threipmuir Reservoirs.

Yes, Harlaw Reservoir is closely linked with Threipmuir Reservoir upstream, and many routes connect the two. For instance, the Pentland Hills Access Road – Threipmuir Reservoir loop is a popular option that encompasses both bodies of water, providing extended and scenic running opportunities.