Dragon’s Back Ridge,
Enjoy the Peak District’s only ‘true peaks’ on this classic ridge, taking in rugged and often exposed high-level paths.
Peak District
Chrome Hill (425m/1394ft) and Parkhouse Hill (360m/1181ft) are not particularly high in the general world of hills and mountains but together they are often referred to as the only ‘true peaks’ in the Peak District. The ridge path along the crest of these two hills is known as The Dragon’s Back, and when viewed from the valley it is easy to see why.
These miniature mountains are set in the White Peak’s Dove Valley and geologically are the remains of ancient limestone reefs. This route traverses both tops on the ridge and has several steep climbs on it with the ascent of Parkhouse Hill being quite exposed in places.
This exhilarating route also has some easy scrambling on it and the views from the higher parts of the ridge are simply stunning. As a bonus top the walk starts with a climb to the summit of High Wheeldon (422m/1384ft), another limestone top with awesome views from the trig point.
The walk starts in the pretty village of Earl Sterndale and must rank as one of the most exciting of all Peak District walks and is at its best on days of clear sunny weather.