Trail Running > Routes > Peak District Routes > Froggatt, Curbar & Baslow Edges
An easy 12 km trail run linking the dramatic gritstone edges of Froggatt, Curbar and Baslow with the moors of the Dark Peak.
Why run this trail?
The gritstone edges of Froggatt, Curbar and Baslow are some of the most iconic in the Dark Peak – and they make for outstanding trail running. Towering pillars of rock plunge to the valley below, forming a dramatic natural boundary to the open moorland above.
The escarpments, tors and crags are a playground for climbers but they also offer runners a varied and engaging mix of sculpted rock and fast-flowing trails – perfect for pushing the pace and getting a little more adventurous over the rocks if you choose.
This is a popular and well-trodden route and you’re likely to see plenty of other runners out enjoying it. The terrain is mostly flat, with clear paths that are easy to follow – perfect for a quick and compact outing.
The return leg follows White Edge – a quieter sandstone trail along a low escarpment, with expansive views across the aptly named Big Moor. There’s a pub and a National Trust café within minutes of the finish too – an added incentive to keep the pace high.
NT Haywood Car Park to Froggatt Edge
The run starts from the National Trust car park at Haywood, tucked away in woodland just off the A625.
Take the small path to the right at the end of the car park, cross a stream and climb the steep bank to emerge onto the road through a gate. Head downhill briefly, then cross the road and pass through a gate on the left.
You’re now on the main path to Froggatt Edge – a wide, well-defined trail through bracken and birch trees.
After around 1 km, the tree cover falls away and the weathered crags of Froggatt Edge come into view, with expansive views of Grindleford and the Derwent Valley below.
From here, you can stick to the main sandy path or pick your way along narrower trails between the tors, depending on how adventurous you’re feeling.
Froggatt Edge to Curbar Edge
The transition from Froggatt to Curbar Edge is unmistakable. The rock formations become larger and more dramatic, with steeper drops and more imposing gritstone pillars rising from the valley floor.
Far below, the villages of Curbar and Calver appear among a patchwork of fields and trees.
At just over a kilometre in length, Curbar Edge offers plenty of opportunities to weave between – and over – the various pinnacles and slabs of rock. The real challenge is not getting too distracted by the constant photo opportunities on offer.
Curbar Edge to Curbar Gap
Once you leave the natural playground of Curbar Edge, the trail begins to descend and the rock formations thin out.
The path broadens as a lane rises to meet you from the right. Ignore the sign for White Edge at the junction and instead bear right, descending on a rocky track that curves down to meet the road at Curbar Gap.
Note: Curbar Gap car park makes a convenient alternative start and finish point.
Curbar Gap to Baslow Edge
Cross the road and climb the steep bank opposite, passing through a gate to reach Baslow Edge.
After around 50 m, the path splits. Take the smaller right-hand fork for closer access to the edge and its viewpoints, or stay on the main track for easier, faster running.
If you remain on the main path, the landscape opens out to reveal wide moorland on your left, and you’ll soon pass the incongruous Eagle Stone, standing in perfect isolation.
Baslow Edge to White Edge Trig Point
At the end of the track, turn left to follow the treeline along Blackstone Edge, passing Wellington’s Monument.
After around 1.5 km, pass through a gate onto Clodhall Lane. Cross directly over and go through another gate to access Big Moor.
The trail is initially faint and can be boggy, but soon firms up into a more runnable sandy and rocky surface. As the ground climbs gently, the low escarpment of White Edge begins to form ahead.
The trig point sits just off to the right—a short detour if you choose to visit it.
White Edge Trig Point to NT Haywood Car Park
The track curves north-east, with views back across Curbar Edge and the Derwent Valley opening up again on your left.
The trail becomes more undulating and technical, winding through heather and bracken and requiring a bit more focus underfoot.
After around 1 km, the path kicks up slightly before passing through a gap in a dry stone wall. Turn left and descend on a moderately steep trail through trees and fields, emerging opposite the Grouse Inn on the A625.
Cross the road and pass over the stile to the left of the pub car park, signposted for the National Trust Longshaw Estate.
From here, cut diagonally across three small fields to join a short woodland trail back to the Haywood car park.
Refresh Yourself
There are a couple of good options nearby – the Grouse Inn or the excellent café at the National Trust Longshaw Estate, both offering great views and some well-earned post-run refreshments.
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Trail Running Routes in the Peak District
Disclaimer
All routes and GPX files are provided as a guide only. Conditions, rights of way, and landmarks may change. Always carry an up‑to‑date map and use your own judgement. See the Trail Run Disclaimer page for details.