5 Winter Hikes In The Peak District

Winter might seem like the season to hang up your hiking boots, but for those willing to layer up and brave the chill, it’s one of the most rewarding times to explore the hills and mountains. With cold crisp air, frosted ridges, and fewer crowds, the trails feel more peaceful and raw than at any other time of year. The key, of course, is preparation — shorter days, unpredictable weather, and slippery paths all mean a little extra care is essential for enjoyable winter hiking.

Being right on my doorstep The Peak District is my perfect destination for Winter hiking – there is so much choice and the views can be spectacular. Although there are no official mountains in the Peak District these five walks offer a mixture of challenging terrain, more family-friendly routes but all with terrific views from the summit (weather permitting of course).

1. Kinder Scout – Mass Trespass Route, Dark Peak

Walking the Kinder Scout – Mass Trespass route is more than just a hike — it’s a step into the history of British outdoor access. The route traces the path of the trespassers who fought for the right to roam these wild uplands in 1932. Though several of the trespassers were arrested, their defiance helped spark a national movement that eventually led to the Right to Roam laws we benefit from today.

Tackling this route in the winter offers a spectacular walk and breathtaking scenery but obviously the conditions make this hike that much more difficult. Completing this route needs excellent navigation skills as the weather can change dramatically in minutes. One second you are enjoying blue skies and views and the next you can’t see more than a few inches in front of you.

Kinder Scout in winter also offers perfect conditions for Ice climbers — particularly in late winter. Kinder Downfall has a drop of 30 metres making it the tallest waterfall in the Peak District.

2. Bleaklow B29 Overexposed Crash Site From Snakes Summit, Dark Peak

This short Winter walk starts out from The Snake Pass summit and visits the memorial for the 13 crew members of the Overexposed US Air Force Superfortress that crashed on the moors in 1948. The landscape on Bleaklow is a vast open expanse — and there is something quietly beautiful about it. Bleaklow demands your respect — it is very easy to get lost especially if the weather suddenly changes so ensure you are prepared and have good navigation skills.

As with all winter hikes preperation and having the right equipment is essential — the terrain on Bleaklow is often very boggy — even when frozen. The path especially along the Pennine Way section can be extremely slippy when there has been frost so ensure you take extra care and have the correct footwear.

3. Stanage Edge

Stanage edge is a terrific route to complete at any time of year but is especially spectacular in winter conditions. There is only one slight climb and you are then rewarded with stunning views and a sense of real space and freedom. Looking out across the Hope Valley on a clear day you can see across to Win Hill and Kinder Scout.

It’s a walk that’s short enough for an early afternoon start or one that you can get boxed off in the morning and have the rest of your day. This route requires minimal effort and offers maximum reward a sense of calm that makes it the perfect stress-lowering trail.  

4. Win Hill

This short two-hour walk still packs a punch – especially in winter, with a steep ascent to the summit that then rewards you with stunning 360-degree views. Standing at 463 metres (1,519 feet) whether you are chasing a sunrise or looking to get away from it for a few hours this peaceful woodland is a great way to do so.

5. Baslow Edge

There’s something special about the Baslow Edge circular from Curbar Gap — it’s one of those walks that feels both wild and welcoming at the same time. From the moment you set off along the gritstone ridge, the views open wide across the Derwent Valley, and you can’t help but slow down to take it all in. Expect to see a few photographers out on really crisp mornings as the views really are spectacular.

This is another great winter walk for families and is dog friendly too (keep dogs on a lead as there is wildlife on the trail).

Winter hiking in the UK isn’t about conquering the biggest peaks — it’s about savouring the quiet beauty of the hills when they’re at their most serene. With the right preparation and respect for the elements, these five routes offer a perfect balance of challenge, accessibility, and reward.

So lace up, pack smart, and chase those crisp winter days — the views are worth it.

💬 Have a favourite winter walk of your own? Share your photos and stories with us on Instagram using #MountainsNotMolehillsWinter — we might feature your adventure next!