A Full Guide to Climbing the Trinnacle Circular Walk Peak District
The Trinnacle Trail is a fun adventure within the Dovestone Reservoir area that will lead you to the Trinnacle, a collection of unique gritstone pillars that run along the edges of Dovestones. You will find it on the north-western edge of the Peak District National Park in the Saddleworth Moors, and it is popular with the people of Greater Manchester due to its proximity to the area.
But, what is it? The Trinnacle is a massive striking tower of three gritstone columns located at RavenStones Brow. The glaciers and ice sheets have carved the cliff’s edges in the last Ice Age, weathering and frost-shattering of rocks throughout thousands of years have resulted in the formation of the three-pronged Trinnacle.
The trail offers beautiful views of the water of two reservoirs, Dovestone and Yeoman Hey reservoir. You will be able to experience the stunning scenery of the Peak District and get the Instagram worthy shot of the gritstone pillars. However, you do not need to climb it, as you might be surprised to see just how steep it is and how much of a dangerous risk it is to get onto it. If you want to prepare for this adventure, these quotes about exploring, should help to get you in the mood!
You can either do this walk clockwise or anti-clockwise, depending on whether you would like to scramble up or down the waterfall. Many people prefer scrambling up as it can be hard on your knees. However, the route we describe comes down the waterfall because it gives people the option to turn back and avoid the scramble entirely if you would like to make it an easier route. It does not have to be a circular walk if you don’t want it to be.
We outline everything you need to know about how you can find The Trinnacle at Dove stones Reservoir. If this sounds too challenging, we have a guide to other walks, which you can read here: Dovestone Reservoir Walks.
The Trinnacle Walk Details
Time: 2-3 hours
Distance: 7.2km/ 4.9 miles
Elevation: 324m
Route Type: circular
Map: OL1 – Peak District (Dark Peak Area)
The Trinnacle Car Park Options
Dovestone Reservoir and the Trinnacle are situated in the east of the village of Greenfield near the A635 Holmfirth Road. You can park in either Binn Green Car Park or Dovestones Car Park or laybys on the road.
Binn Green Car Park is your best option because it is closer to the Trinnacle and free. It is situated further down Holmfirth Road than the Dovestone Reservoir Car Park. The postcode for Binn Green Car Park is OL3 7NN. The toilets have never been open on our visits, and we have come here a lot! You can follow the Google Map directions here.
Alternatively, you can park in Dovestones, making your walk slightly longer. The parking fee in the Dovestone Reservoir is £1 for up to two hours, £2 for between 2 and 4 hours, and £4 for longer than 4 hours (all day). You can pay with cards or coins. The Dovestone Reservoir Postcode is OL3 7NE. There are toilets here that you can use.
Lastly, you can park in laybys or side roads if the car parks are filled. These are typically close to Dovestone Reservoir Car Park, and you might see them as you enter.
The car parks get full very quickly because there are so many routes and outdoor activities. Therefore, be sure to get there early if visiting on weekends. Also, we would suggest going on a weekday when you can.
How to reach The Trinnacle using Public Transport
Take the train to Greenfield station. There are regular services from Manchester and Huddersfield. From Greenfield Station, you can walk to the start of the walk from here, but it will add 2.5 miles to your walk and the return journey. The option to catch a bus will save some time, but it is not the most convenient option either, as the service can be infrequent.
The Trinnacle Weather
You should always check the weather before you set off to ensure that you are dressed appropriately and know what to expect. For example, we would avoid this route if it is raining because the rocks would be slippery on the descent from the waterfall.
Top Tips for The Trinnacle Trail
- In bad weather conditions, this walking route can be challenging. We strongly recommend wearing proper shoes, like walking boots or trainers in dry, warm weather.
- The climb up the hill to Saddleworth Moor is pretty steep, and the descent of Greenfield Brook can be slippery when the rocks are wet. You will likely require your hands to guide you down, so be prepared for a scramble.
- Weather conditions can rapidly change, so we suggest taking layers, as conditions will be colder and windier on the tops.
- Take some snacks with you and bring plenty of water to drink. The Trinnacle trail will offer you stunning picnic places, and the closest facilities are in Greenfield.
- Do not climb the Trinnacle if it is wet, windy, or you are not a confident climber. There have been serious injuries and falls, which are perilous in terrible weather conditions.
The Trinnacle Dovestone Circular Walk Directions
The direction you follow will depend on whether or not you’d like to climb up or down a waterfall. There are large boulders, and it is a scramble. We chose the latter, and we will outline the walk in this way, but it’s easy to follow the directions in reverse.
1.You can start with either the car park or laybys. We suggest Binn Green car park as your starting point. The grid reference is: SE 01773 04466
2. From the car park, go down the steps through the woods and then walk to the bridge that divides the Dovestone from the Yeoman Reservoir. Cross the bridge, walk next to the bench, and head left up the hill toward the rocks. It is steep, but it will be worth it, and you can stop anytime you want!
3. Once you reach the rocks, walk towards the ridge. The path is likely to be slippery, so make sure to take your time as you go to the right. Using an offline route map (even Google Maps), you will see the trail toward the Trinnacle as the Trinnacle has a Google Map pin.
4. Keep walking along the ridge as it curves, and you’ll get to the Trinnacle eventually. It is a striking rock formation that is popular with hikers and photographers.
5. If you choose to climb, take care to be cautious, as it could be risky – there’s a steep drop that falls down the slope of a cliff. You can, however, snap a photo from any angle since it’s a fantastic rock formation. It is easy to see why it’s popular with photographers.
Now you have a decision to make; you can choose to go back the same way you came. This would make the Trinnacle walk an out and back walk. This will be the best option if you do not wish to tackle the downhill climb to the Birchen Clough and waterfall descent. This would be easier, as no scrambling is needed.
6. However, to complete the Trinnacle circular hike, you should walk along the path until you come to the waterfall. Then, cross over the Birchen Clough waterfall and make the descent, slowly walking down the waterfall. You will be able to take stunning photos too.
7. When you get to the bottom, you’ll have to cross over the waterfall once more and turn left (you can’t change direction) and head toward Greenfield Reservoir, which you will be able to view from a distance.
8. From here, you’ll arrive at Yeoman Reservoir, where you may choose to walk on the downwards path or stay on the top (the paths join), then return to the starting point by going up the stairs through the woods.
Trinnacle Trail complete!
Should you want to extend your walk, you could choose to stroll around Dovestone Reservoir, too or if you’re feeling adventurous, take a hike to Chew Reservoir.
Frequently Asked Questions
How high is the Trinnacle?
The Trinnacle is in Greenfield Valley, 250 metres (820ft) high.
How to climb the Trinnacle
Please know that it is a risk to climb the Trinnacle, and there have been serious injuries. If you want to do it and the weather is good enough, you can walk out and climb up using the left gritstone rock. It is much harder to reach the right-hand side rock and might include jumping. Keep in mind that there are sheer drops down both sides. Do not attempt if you are not confident because there are risks and incidents where Mountain Rescue has had to be called.
Where is the Trinnacle?
You can find the Trinnacle by parking at Binn Green Car Park, walking down to Dovestone Reservoir and ascending a ridge. It is near Greenfield and on the Saddleworth Moors.
What other walks can I do in the Peak District?
Suppose you want to do different walks in the area. Then please read our guides to:
Dovestone Reservoir Walks – here we describe all the different walks you can do from this very spot.
Kinder Scout– take on the highest point of the Peaks.
Stanage Edge – walk along a fabulous edge with beautiful views.
Pots and Pans – another walk that is nearby to the Trinnacle to an obelisk.
We hope you found this article on how to find the Trinnacle useful, and we hope that you can successfully see the impressive rocks on your next visit. Let us know if you manage to or if you have any questions. Happy exploring, and remember to stay safe on this hike!
Photo Credits: averagelives.com
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.