Peak District Hike: Kinder Scout & Jacob’s Ladder

The UK has some incredible hikes. The terrain and the geographic landscapes provide some amazing views. The mountains and hills here are much older than in other countries and therefore have been subjected to far more weathering, erosion, and a lot of wind. This leads to the almost more rounded shape which makes the landscape in the UK so unique.

The Peak District, in particular, Kinder Scout is a great example of this characterized by rugged moorland, steep smooth escarpments, and vast rolling hills situated in the 'Dark Peak' area of the Peak District.

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The Route

At the end of the post you can find the GPX route for Kinder Scout Low. I'd highly recommend getting to Edale early if you wish to find free parking (you can usually get a spot outside the local pub)

This route contains a grade 1 scramble up Grindsbrook Clough. There isn't much exposure, and it's very dog-friendly (staffies love it!). So if you're looking for a scramble to start with, this is perfect! Gore-tex/waterproof boots are a helpful addition on routes like this, especially with how boggy and wet it can get on the top of the peaty Kinder plateau after any sort of rainfall.

Starting from Edale

Starting from Edale takes you through some woodland and across some gorgeous moorland following a lovely paved path with Grindsbrook just to the left of you. Don't worry though, this pleasant paved path will change as soon as you hit the bottom of Grindsbrook Clough.

Grindsbrook Clough Scramble

The scramble up Grindsbrook isn't too difficult with plenty of routes to pick from as you make your way up. There's no real exposure and plenty of things to grab onto. If you start this hike just before sunrise, near the top of the clough is an excellent place to stop for breakfast. The sun rises perfectly up out of the valleys lacing the streams and hills with a golden blanket.

Kinder Plateau

Coming up to the top of the scramble the plateau opens up into a vast boggy expanse littered with peat groughs and smooth monolithic shapes. On a clear day, it is a sight to behold.

The Descent

The route back down takes you via Jacobs Ladder, which in itself is a pinnacle of the walk and surrounding landscape.

Jacob’s Ladder supposedly gets its name from Jacob Marshall, a farmer who worked the land up at Edale Head back in the 1700s. Legend has it that he carved steps into this steep section of the trail to make it easier to reach his land from the nearby villages. Whether that’s true or just a bit of local folklore, one thing’s for sure, it marks an iconic part of the walk.

Map and Route File

That wraps up probably one of my favorite walks in the Peak District, it has a bit of everything that the great outdoors in the UK has to offer and the views are remarkable no matter the time of year.

Have you done this route before? Or think you have one better? Drop a comment below and let me know!