Scrambles in the Dark Peak Easy Summer Scrambles and Winter Climbs

This guide describes 41 scrambles in the Dark Peak and Roaches areas of the Peak District, most of which can be done all year round. The selection of routes are graded 1 to 3, offering a range of scrambles to suit all abilities. Easy routes are suitable for adventurous walkers with good fitness and navigation skills, while harder routes require some climbing experience.

Both classic and lesser known routes are featured, taking in areas such as Kinder Scout, the Wilderness Gullies, Bleaklow, Chew Valley and Crowden. Route description, together with information on approach, link routes, variants and extensions, is accompanied by extracts of 1:25,000 OS mapping. Also included is practical information regarding safety, equipment, access and conservation.

The UK's first designated national park, the Peak District has long been famed for its walking and climbing opportunities. Perhaps lesser known are the routes that lies somewhere in between - the 'hand's on' ascents that offer the thrill of an adventurous line without venturing on to the climber's crags. This guide showcases some of the best routes in the Dark Peak, perfect for those looking for a change from the well-trodden paths that lead to the moorland tops.

Seasons - Four winter-only routes; all others possible at any time of year, although heavy rain and higher than usual water levels will affect some scrambles

Centres - Most scrambles in this guidebook are within easy reach of Derby, Nottingham, Sheffield, Leeds and Manchester. Local centres could be Edale, Crowden, Hayfield, Greenfield.

Difficulty - Routes are graded 1 to 3 in order of increasing difficulty (from 'scrambly' walks to moderate/difficult rock climbs). Easy scrambles are suitable for adventurous walkers with good fitness and navigation skills, harder routes require some rock climbing experience. In winter conditions, Scottish winter grades 1-2/3 apply and crampons and ice axes will be needed.

Must See - Kinder Downfall and the ravine; Ashop Clough and its gullies; Bleaklow via Ashton Clough; Torside Gully; Wildboar Clough; the Wilderness Gullies - all are good scrambles at any time of year. Mam Tor and Back Tor gullies are local winter classics.