Dark Peak Walks - Pathfinder Guides

This book contains a useful introduction and additional information, such as the geology of the area, history, safety on the hills etc. The walks are graded according to the anticipated walking time. The walks vary in length from 2 3/4 to 9 1/4 miles. At the beginning of each walk is an information panel detailing the terrain, height gain, approximate time etc. The walks directions text includes brief details about items of interest along the route. The directions have colour highlighted letters which correspond to a point on the map, so you can easily track your progress along the route. Some of the more challenging routes may require navigational skills, especially in bad weather. The layout is clear and attractive with colour mapping (based on OS 1;25,000 maps) and colour photos throughout.

The walks are spread throughout this large region, the most northerly being a walk from Marsden up onto the Black Moss moors. The southern-most walk is from Hathersage in the beautiful Hope Valley. To the west is a walk based around Lyme Park. Of course the book also includes the favourite routes such as along the Mam Tor - Lose Hill ridge, the southern edge of Kinder Scout, Derwent Edge etc, but you’ll also discover areas that you may not be so familiar with, but just as enjoyable.

   Grid references are given which refer to the point on the map where a direction is given or a particular landmark is reached. This enables you to key the route into a GPS unit, for use during the walk. However the grid references are only 6 digits meaning that they only specify that a particular point is within a square of 100m x 100m: 1000 sq. meters. I have my reservations in that I don’t consider this to be accurate enough to enable effective GPS navigation. However you could always use them as an added interest. When you reach the actual point refered to in the instructions, add the (10 digit) GPS-generated waypoint for future use.

A great book enabling you to get to know this diverse area, choosing a walk to suit your abilities, and time available.