Top 10 Hiking Trails in the Peak District for Breath taking Views

The Peak District is a hiker’s paradise, offering some of the UK’s most stunning landscapes. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trekker, there’s a trail for everyone. Here’s our pick of the top 10 hiking trails in the Peak District that will take your breath away.

1. Mam Tor & The Great Ridge Walk

Distance: 8km (5 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate
Why hike it? This iconic walk offers panoramic views across the Hope Valley and Edale. The ridge provides a thrilling yet accessible hike, making it one of the most popular routes in the Peak District.

2. Kinder Scout & Jacob’s Ladder

Distance: 13km (8 miles)
Difficulty: Hard
Why hike it? As the highest point in the Peak District, Kinder Scout rewards hikers with dramatic views and the stunning Kinder Downfall waterfall. The climb via Jacob’s Ladder is steep but well worth the effort.

3. Stanage Edge Walk

Distance: 10km (6 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate
Why hike it? Famous for its gritstone cliffs, this trail is a favorite among walkers and rock climbers alike. The ridge provides incredible views over the Dark Peak and Hope Valley.

4. Dovedale & Thorpe Cloud

Distance: 5km (3 miles)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Why hike it? This route features the famous stepping stones across the River Dove and a rewarding climb up Thorpe Cloud for outstanding views of the valley.

5. Winnats Pass & Cave Dale

Distance: 7km (4.5 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate
Why hike it? Experience a dramatic limestone gorge with steep cliffs and eerie rock formations. This hidden gem is less crowded but equally stunning.

6. Padley Gorge & Longshaw Estate

Distance: 6km (4 miles)
Difficulty: Easy
Why hike it? Perfect for families, this scenic woodland walk follows a babbling stream, passing through ancient oak trees and charming footbridges.

7. Chrome Hill & Parkhouse Hill

Distance: 8km (5 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Why hike it? Known as the “Dragon’s Back” due to its unique ridgeline, this hike offers some of the most striking geological formations in the Peak District.

8. Derwent Edge & Ladybower Reservoir

Distance: 12km (7.5 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate
Why hike it? This circular route provides breathtaking views of Ladybower Reservoir, rugged rock formations, and a peaceful moorland landscape.

9. Baslow Edge & Curbar Edge

Distance: 9km (5.5 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate
Why hike it? A relatively easy ridge walk with far-reaching views over the Derwent Valley, plus the chance to spot wild red deer in the area.

10. Lathkill Dale & Monyash

Distance: 10km (6 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate
Why hike it? This serene walk follows the River Lathkill through limestone dales, offering beautiful waterfalls and abundant wildlife.

Final Thoughts

The Peak District is packed with incredible hiking trails, each offering its own unique experience. Whether you want rugged peaks, peaceful woodlands, or breath-taking ridges, there’s a route for you. Pack your boots, Triple Ridge windbreaker,  grab a map, and start exploring the beauty of the Peak District!

Have a favourite Peak District hike? Let us know in the comments below!