10 Best Dark Peak Walks in the Peak District National Park
The Peak District National Park, located in central England, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. With rolling hills, picturesque villages, and rugged landscapes, the park offers visitors a wide range of activities and experiences.
Among the many areas to explore within the park, the Dark Peaks stand out as a must-visit destination, known for their challenging hikes and breathtaking views. This blog post will showcase some of the best walks in the Dark Peaks and what makes them unique. We visit the Peak District almost every weekend and love exploring. We love the White Peak area, but there’s something unique about the wild and rugged Dark Peak Area.
Here, you can read our guide to the best walks in the White Peak Area.
What are the Dark Peaks?
The Dark Peaks are a range of hills and mountains in the northern part of the park, known for their rugged and remote landscapes. High peaks, rolling moors, and steep valleys characterize the area.
The Dark Peaks are named after the dark, brooding appearance of the hills when viewed from the surrounding valleys and are considered one of the most challenging and spectacular walking areas in the Peak District.
Tips for visiting the Dark Peak Peak District
- In the majestic Dark Peak area, you need the OL1 – Peak District (Dark Peak Area) map guiding you through this breathtaking landscape’s rolling hills and towering peaks.
- The terrain can be challenging with the uneven and slippery ground, especially after rain. Invest in sturdy footwear, like hiking boots, for extra traction.
- Dress in layers and bring a waterproof jacket, as the summit can be windy.
- Capture the breathtaking views with your camera, and head to the southern ridge instead of the northern ridge for the best shots.
- Respect the environment by carrying out all your waste, preserving the area’s natural beauty for future visitors.
For hiking tips, please read 16 Best Hiking Tips for Beginners.
Best Dark Peak Walks
Kinder Scout
Distance: 14km (8.5 miles)
Time: 4-5 hours
Get ready for a journey through history and natural beauty with the Kinder Scout walk from Edale. Standing tall as the highest point in the Peak District National Park, this 363m wonder was made famous by the 1932 Kinder Scout Mass Trespass. A group of 500 brave individuals fought for the right to roam freely in the open countryside, paving the way for the creation of England’s first national park.
Step back in time as you follow in the footsteps of these trailblazers, exploring the untamed natural playground of Kinder Scout. This wild circular route takes you from Edale, up Jacob’s Ladder and down Grindsbrook Clough, offering breathtaking views, stream crossings, and thrilling scrambles along the way.
But beware, not all summits are created equal. Kinder Low maybe 3m lower, but it is widely considered to be the nicer of the two peaks, offering a more manageable path through the moorland.
But for those seeking a true adventure, the Kinder Scout summit awaits – a pile of rocks marking the highest point in Derbyshire at 2,087 feet. So, are you ready to conquer Kinder Scout and bask in its glory?
Are you interested in this Dark Peak walks? Please read our guide to the Kinder Scout Walk.
Mam Tor
Route 1: The Mam Tor Circular Walk is 3 miles (4.8km) and will take roughly 1- 2 hours.
Route 2: Castleton to Mam Tor Walk – The Great Ridge is 6. 5 miles (10.5km) and will take roughly 3-4 hours.
Route 3: Hope to Mam Tor Walk – is 9 miles (14.5km) and will take roughly 5-6 hours.
Conquer the towering height of Mam Tor. With its breathtaking 517m elevation, it’s no surprise that this walk has earned a coveted spot in the top 10 UK walks.
Beat the crowds and rise early to experience the serenity of Hope and Castleton villages or explore the unique attractions nearby.
Mam Tor is one of the best Dark Peak walks and offers stunning views of Hope Valley, Edale, and the edge of Kinder Scout.
And after conquering the summit, reward yourself with a visit to the awe-inspiring Blue John and Treak Cliff caverns, truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to bask in the raw beauty of the Peak District.
Are you interested in this Dark Peak walk? Read our guide to the Mam Tor Walks.
Win Hill
Soaring 462 meters above sea level, Win Hill lies in the heart of the Peak District National Park in Derbyshire, a stone’s throw from the Ladybower Reservoir and the River Derwent Valley. Our recommended circular route begins in Bamford, and for those seeking a shorter hike, alternate starting points are available at the end of our guide.
The name “Win Hill” has roots in mystery, attributing its origin to the old English word “Whythinehill,” meaning Willow Hill. In contrast, others believe it stems from a legendary 7th-century battle with no historical evidence. Regardless of its name, the climb to the summit is worth the effort, with breathtaking views of Ladybower Reservoir, Lose Hill, and Castleton.
The landscape along the way is equally captivating, with diverse terrain to explore. So, gear up and experience the magic of Win Hill for yourself!
Are you interested in this Dark Peak walk? Please read our guide to Win Hill Walk.
Higher Shelf Stones and B29 Crash Site
Distance: 6km (4 miles)
Time: 1.5-2.5 hours
Discover the B29 Overexposed Crash Site and Higher Shelf Stones, where a solemn memorial stands in honour of the 13 brave crew members who lost their lives in a tragic crash on November 3rd, 1948. The memorial was erected in 1988 by servicemen from RAF Finningley, reminding us of its fateful message: “It is doubtful the crew ever saw the ground.”
Step back in time to the 16th photographic reconnaissance squadron of the US Air Force as they embark on a routine flight from RAF Scampton in Lincolnshire to American AFB Burtonwood near Warrington.
Tragically, their journey was cut short as they crashed onto the Bleaklow moors due to low clouds. Dubbed the “Bleaklow Bomber,” this aircraft was on a mission to photograph nuclear testing at Bikini Atoll, including potentially dropping an atomic bomb.
Experience the eerie beauty of the preserved wreckage scattered across miles of gritstone in Glossop. Marvel at the intact rubber wheels, Duplex-Cyclone engines, and gun turrets, even after 70 years. This breathtaking display of devastation is a testament to the incredible history and emotion surrounding this one-of-a-kind hike in the Peaks.
Soak in the views from the third highest place in the Peak District, as you stand 2,000ft above sea level. On a clear day, the panoramic view of Manchester will take your breath away.
Are you interested in this Dark Peak walk? Please read our guide to the B29 Overexposed Walk and Higher Shelf Stones.
Winnats Pass from the Village of Castleton
Time: 1.5-2 hours
Distance: 4.4 km/ 2.7 miles
Winnats Pass is a mesmerizing limestone gorge within the picturesque Peak District National Park in Derbyshire, England. A true gem of the country, Winnats Pass boasts breathtaking beauty that will amaze you. A winding road, surrounded by towering limestone ridges and a windy way into the Hope Valley through the gorge, make Winnats Pass a delight for drivers and walkers alike.
But wait, there’s more! Winnats Pass is more than just a pretty face. It’s a Site of Special Scientific Interest, with a fascinating history dating back 350 million years to when it was submerged under a tropical sea. Over time, glaciers melted the limestone rock, and streams ran through the area, dissolving the limestone and creating caves and mine shafts.
Speedwell Cavern, an underground karst cave accessible through a flooded lead mine, is a prime example of the area’s geological wonders and a must-visit for anyone who wants to see the unique Blue John mineral. And for the adrenaline junkies out there, Winnats Pass is a popular challenge for cyclists who take on the limestone cleft up the Winnats Pass road as part of the Tour of Peak road race.
But beware, the pass is also allegedly haunted by a young couple robbed and murdered here in 1758 after eloping. Their bodies were not found for ten years! You might capture a glimpse of their spirits on your visit. So, pack your camera and head to Winnats Pass for a spellbinding experience you’ll never forget.
Are you interested in this Dark Peak walk? Please read our guide to Winnats Pass.
Stanage Edge
Time: 2.5-3.5 hours
Distance: 9 km (5.6-mile walk)
Discover the beauty of Stanage Edge, a 3.5-mile (6km) long walk in the Peak District National Park that boasts some of the most breathtaking and awe-inspiring views. This gritstone escarpment, located in the Dark Peaks, overlooks the Hope Valley and beyond, offering panoramic vistas that draw visitors back again and again. You may even spot the iconic Kinder Scout and Mam Tor, two other famous Peak District walks, as you explore.
For the adventurous at heart, Stanage Edge is a mecca for rock climbing and a paradise for walkers. Take the circular route from the picturesque village of Hathersage, accessible by public transport, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Stanage Edge Walk.
This walk is not just stunning but also rich in history and literature. It was featured in the film adaptation of Pride and Prejudice and is home to the 16th-century North Lees Hall, once the residence of the Eyre family and the inspiration for Charlotte Bronte’s Thornfield Hall in Jane Eyre. The village where Bronte lived while writing the book is also nearby.
To top it all off, the remains of a Roman road can be found atop Stanage Edge, adding to its historical significance.
Are you interested in this Dark Peak area walk? Please read our guide to the Stanage Edge.
Padley Gorge
Distance: 6km
Time: 2-3 hours
The Padley Gorge walk is a picturesque, family-friendly adventure within the Longshaw Estate in the Peak District National Park. This idyllic gem, just a stone’s throw from Sheffield, boasts breathtaking beauty and an irresistible charm that draws families back repeatedly.
Kids will love splashing in the creek and climbing amongst the gorge’s rocks, while adults will appreciate the serenity and splendour of the surrounding woodland, rivers, and rocky edges.
This national treasure was protected for future generations when it was gifted to the National Trust in 1931. Now, as part of England’s first national park, the Peak District, it is cherished and cared for by the Peak District National Park Authority.
Our enjoyment of the Padley Gorge walks results from the hard work and dedication of pioneers who fought to preserve and protect exceptional landscapes like this.
No matter your level of experience, there’s a Padley Gorge walk for everyone. With various distances and time options, you can tailor your experience to fit your needs. And with well-signposted trails in different colours, it’s easy to follow the path and immerse yourself in the magic of this wondrous place.
Are you interested in this Dark Peak area walk? Please read our guide to the Padley Gorge Walk.
Alport Castles
Distance: 14km
Time: 4-5 hours
Alport Castles is where imagination and nature collide. Located in the heart of Alport Dale in the Upper Derwent Valley, this circular route promises an adventure like no other. The rugged landscape and secluded setting of Alport Castles make it a must-visit destination for any Peak District National Park trekker.
Venture north of the Snake Pass (A57 Snake Road) and enter the world of the High Peak Estate, where the National Trust holds stewardship. Here you’ll discover the largest landslide in the UK, stretching over half a mile long and recognized as one of the essential landslides in Britain.
Behold the castles in the air – gritstone mounds that tower over the land and resemble medieval fortifications. Imagine yourself as a knight defending your kingdom or a damsel exploring a fairy tale world. Some say the largest of these mounds resembles a motte and bailey castle, and from a distance, the sight is truly breathtaking.
As you wander along the path, take a moment to pay homage to the birthplace of suffragette Hannah Mitchell, located at Alport Castles Farm along the River Alport. This walk promises history, adventure, and a touch of magic.
Are you interested in this Dark Peak walk? Please read our guide to Alport Castles.
Dovestone Reservoir and the Trinnacle
Time: 2-3 hours
Distance: 7.2km/ 4.9 miles
Trinnacle is a trio of towering gritstone pillars that rise majestically from the edges of Dovestones in the Saddleworth Moors. This fun-filled adventure awaits you within the Dovestone Reservoir area on the north-western fringes of the Peak District National Park, just a short jaunt from Greater Manchester.
The Trinnacle, located at RavenStones Brow, is a breathtaking sight to behold. Aeons of weathering, frost-shattering, and glacial carving have transformed the cliffs into this massive, three-pronged gritstone tower. A walk along the Trinnacle Trail is a hike and a journey through time and geological wonder.
Gaze upon the tranquil waters of Dovestone and Yeoman Hey reservoirs as you make your way along the Trail. Snap an Instagram-worthy shot of the trinnacle, surrounded by the stunning scenery of the Peak District. Please note the Trinnacle is a steep and dangerous ascent, and it is not recommended to climb it.
You can walk the Trail clockwise or anti-clockwise, depending on whether you’d like to tackle the waterfall ascent or descent. While some may prefer the scramble up, it can be tough on the knees, so the route we suggest comes down the waterfall for those who would like an easier option. If you prefer, the walk does not have to be circular. The choice is yours, and the adventure is yours to discover!
Are you interested in this Dark Peak walk? Please read our guide to The Trinnacle.
Higger Tor Burbage Rocks
Distance: 6.2km (3.9 miles)
Time: 1 hour 45min- 2 hours
Step into the heart of the Dark Peak and experience the thrill of the Higger Tor walk. This stunning route takes you on a journey across Burbage Edge, up the Iron Age hill fort of Carl Wark, and to the summit of the gritstone tor overlooking the breathtaking Burbage Valley.
In the Peak District National Park, southwest of Sheffield, Higger Tor is a popular destination for walkers and climbers seeking adventure. But don’t be intimidated. This short and easy-to-navigate walk is perfect for all levels of hikers.
Discover the Southern Block, an awe-inspiring gritstone formation that awaits you at the southern edge. And keep your eyes peeled for the unique flora and fauna of Upper Burbage’s blanket bogs, designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest for their diverse collection of cottongrasses and moorland birds such as dunlin and curlew. You may even be lucky to spot a ring ouzel enjoying the gritstone crags!
Join us on a journey that takes you across Burbage Rocks, down and back up Carl Wark, to the summit of Higger Tor, and along Fiddler’s Elbow back to the car park. This beautiful short walk in the Peak District promises a memorable and enchanting experience.
Are you interested in this Dark Peak walk? Read our guide to Higger Tor and Burbage Rocks.
Derwent Edge
Distance: 13km / 8 miles
Time: 3.5 – 4.5 hours
Go on a thrilling adventure in the heart of the Peak District with the Derwent Edge walk. Discover the secrets of the lost village of Derwent and witness the beauty of the Derwent Dam on this circular hike. Explore the magnificent gritstone tors, such as Salt Cellar Rock and Wheel Stones, and soak in the breathtaking views from the top of Win Hill, Kinder Scout, and Ladybower Viaduct (if the weather permits).
The well-maintained path at the top will make your hike a breeze, but be mindful of mountain bikers as they zig-zag down the hills. The path is relatively easy to navigate but does come with steep inclines and uneven surfaces. Stay alert, as the ridge is highly exposed, weather conditions can change quickly.
To preserve the natural habitat, stick to the trails, and avoid disturbing the breeding birds. With a map in hand, and a willingness to explore, the Derwent Edge walk promises to be an unforgettable journey in the Peak District.
Are you interested in this Dark Peak walk? Please read our guide to Derwent Edge.
Overall Thoughts on the Best Dark Peak Walks
The Dark Peaks in the Peak District National Park offer some of the best walks in England. From Kinder Scout, the highest point in the Peak District, to the unique landscapes of Mam Tor and Derwent Edge, the Dark Peaks showcase the park’s history, beauty, and challenges.
The Dark Peaks have something to offer everyone. Remember to check for updates and always hike safely and responsibly in the park. We hope this blog post has inspired you to visit the Peak District National Park and experience the beauty of the Dark Peaks for yourself!
We want to stress that ‘Average Lives’ cannot be held liable for any injuries or accidents that may occur while walking our routes. We strongly advise that you wear proper footwear to reduce the risk of injuries, and carry a paper map and compass to ensure your safety while walking. You can read more on our About Page.
