Peak District’s New 62-Mile Trail is a Hiker’s Delight

Serious hikers and summit-fiends have a new challenge to tackle in the Peak District. The newly launched Steel Cotton Rail Trail, a 62-mile (100km) route, offers formidable hill and moor sections in its central parts, perfect for those who want to earn their views.
While the trail is known for its variety, the middle sections are designed for experienced walkers. These segments, which are part of the 14-section route, move away from the gentle canals and head up into the high country, offering the rugged, misty, and expansive landscapes the Peak District is famous for.
The route is cleverly designed, however, so you don’t have to be a hardcore hiker to enjoy it. The 14 sections are all day-length and pegged to rail stations. This means you can tackle a tough, high-altitude moorland section and still be at a pub in a nearby village by late afternoon, ready to catch a train home.
Even on the easier sections, the trail can present a challenge. Some stages finish with a sharp ascent, like the green lane heading up towards Strines. After miles of level walking, these climbs suddenly open up much bigger views as the mist burns off the valleys.
This new trail provides a fantastic alternative to the often-crowded main Pennine routes. It invites Sheffielders and Mancunians alike to explore new summits and moors, with the convenience of rail access and the support of full waymarking and digital maps.