Peak District walk: The Dragon's Back (12 miles)
Details
The Dragon's Back is a thrilling walk that feels like a true adventure. The route follows two striking hills — Parkhouse Hill and Chrome Hill — whose ridgeline rises and falls like a dragon's spine. With steep climbs, rocky descents, and breathtaking views across valleys and moorlands, it's one of the Peak District's most dramatic trails. In December, the ground can be frosty or slippery, adding an extra challenge — but also a touch of winter magic to the landscape. It's a demanding route, yet the reward is unforgettable scenery and the satisfaction of conquering a truly iconic walk.
📍 Meeting Location & Time
- Meeting Location: Hurdlow Car Park, Tagg Ln, Hurdlow, Buxton, SK17 9QJ
- Meeting Time: 9:00
🥾 Walk Overview
- Distance: ~12 miles (20 km)
- Elevation Gain: ~1,500 ft (500 mt)
- Duration: ~6 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Route Type: Circular
- Walk Leader: Vesta
🐇🐢 Pace & Fitness Requirements
This is a moderate walk intended for those in good physical condition, so it is important to be prepared.
While you are welcome to walk at your own pace, be aware that the route may take longer than expected if walking slower than average. If you find the walk too difficult, there are few shortcuts available to help you complete the route. However, if you choose to take a shortcut, you will need to navigate independently, as the group leader will continue with the planned full route.
⛰️ Route Highlights
- Parkhouse Hill (optional)
- Chrome Hill
- Hollinsclough village
📲 Route Links
🌦️ Weather & Clothing
The weather on the hills can be highly unpredictable, may be cold, windy, icy, rainy.
Please wear sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good grip to handle muddy and slippery terrain. Avoid flat trainers or jeans.
Dress in layers to accommodate changing weather conditions:
- Moisture-wicking base layers
- Insulating mid-layers
- Waterproof outer layers
Useful links for weather forecasts:
🎒 What to Bring
- Sturdy walking boots or shoes with good grip (no flat trainers)
- Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing (avoid jeans)
- Sufficient food and water for the entire day
- Waterproof jacket and warm layers
- A comfortable backpack
- Optional: hiking poles, gloves, hat, torch (or headlamp), camera, power bank, phone (or watch) with the route downloaded
🐶 Dogs
Fit and friendly dogs are welcome! Please keep them on a lead near livestock.
📢 Notes
- The route is planned via Komoot and not pre-walked, so expect possible muddy or slippery sections.
- Parkhouse Hill ascent and descents are optional. You can take a flat path around the hill instead. Note that Parkhouse Hill is not straightforward if the conditions are slippery.
- This event may be cancelled or rescheduled if the weather is unsafe — updates will be posted in the comments section, so enable email notifications.
📌 Bookings
- Please only book if you genuinely intend to attend.
- If you reserve a spot but can no longer make it, please cancel your booking or let the organiser know. It only takes a moment to update your booking, and it really helps everyone: the organiser, the walk leader, and your fellow attendees.
⛑️ Disclaimer
You are fully responsible for your own safety, health, fitness, and equipment. The group has no insurance — by RSVPing, you agree to these terms.
📬 Questions?
Feel free to comment below or message the organiser privately.