An Autumn Adventure: Conquering Kinder Scout
A Cheeky Expedition into the Peak District
Darren and I, two intrepid explorers, embarked on a daring escapade last Sunday. The weather forecast promised sunshine with a touch of chill, the perfect backdrop for our hike up Kinder Scout in the picturesque Peak District.
Setting Off in Style
With the clocks falling back an hour, our early start didn’t cost us a wink of sleep. I rocked up at Darren’s place, punctual to the minute at 08:00, ready for our 45-mile jaunt to Edale. The M60 behaved, and the A6 didn’t put up much of a fight either. By 09:20, we were parked up at the public car park in Edale, boots on, and £5.20 poorer from parking fees, but richer in anticipation.
Trekking Through Terrains
Our journey began with a leisurely half-mile saunter along the road, leading us from the car park to the Old Nags Head in Edale village. From there, we picked up The Pennine Way and headed west across the fields towards Upper Booth Farm, a mere 1.85 miles jaunt. After a brief stretch of road, we reunited with the Pennine Way, inching closer to our ascent point. At around 2.9 miles, we faced the formidable Jacobs Ladder, the stairway to the heavens of Kinder Scout. By this point, we’d ascended approximately 390 meters (1280 feet) from the car park. Not too shabby, especially if you take it slow and steady.
Scaling Heights and Capturing Moments
Atop Kinder Scout, we triumphantly located the trig point, proudly marking 633 meters above sea level at Kinder Low. Quick snaps were obligatory, of course. From there, we ventured forth across the moor towards Kinder Downfall, where the wind decided to join the party, along with a few fellow adventurers. Hanging around up there wasn’t an option; the chill set in quicker than a squirrel nabbing a nut.
A Helpful Encounter on the Moor
As we traversed Kinder Scout and Edale Moor, feeling like masters of the universe, our confidence took a hit when our chosen path fizzled out. Just as we were consulting the map, a mysterious figure emerged from the misty moor, a seasoned wanderer who offered his sage advice. Turns out, getting disoriented up there is easier than buttering toast. He regaled us with tales of navigating the moor, pointing out landmarks like two trusty ‘Christmas trees’ that served as beacons in the wilderness. With newfound knowledge and a brisk pace, we marched towards Crowden Tower, dodging water-filled pools and peaty pitfalls like seasoned pros.
Descending with Delight
From Crowden Tower, it was all downhill towards Edale, with Grindslow Knoll marking the highlight of our descent. From there, we soaked in the panoramic views of Mam Tor, Hollins Cross, Bank Tor, and Lose Hill, a sight to make even the hardiest hiker weak at the knees. The drop down from Grindslow Knoll was swift for those fleet of foot, a mere 200 meters (640 feet) plummet.
A Well-Earned Refreshment
A brisk trot across the farmland led us to the Old Nags Head, where we indulged in a swift but thoroughly deserved pint of Black Sheep ale. It was here, amidst the warmth of the pub, that we bid adieu to our enigmatic companion, nameless but nonetheless a delightful addition to our adventure.
