Dragon’s Back, Peak District

Location: Earl Sterndale, Peak District, England

Length: 4.7 miles

Difficulty: Moderate-Hard

Elevation Gain: 455m

Find the map at the bottom of the page.

Parkhouse Hill to Chrome Hill, also known as ‘Dragon’s Back’ is a brilliant hike for those wanting a little challenge. This route is not for those who don’t like a scramble. There are some pretty steep, exposed sections coming down from Parkhouse Hill.

We managed to find a free parking spot across from the church in Earl Sterndale.

The trail is full of tiny wooden gates to keep the cows in their fields which are very satisfying to open and close. We passed a few cows, trod in a lot of mud (or cow poop) until we got to the top of the first hill to take in the view.

Protruding out of luscious green rolling hills are two rugged peaks, Parkhouse Hill (in front) and Chrome hill (just behind.)

TOP TIP! Some say that it’s easier to do this loop anti-clockwise to avoid the scramble down Parkhouse, if you do choose this route, once you reach the start of Parkhouse, head right along the lower trail towards Chrome Hill first.

The peaks were rather intimidating up close, especially as the terrain was wet and slippery when we were there, but we began the ascent up to the top, 360m above sea level.

We shortly made it to the top of Parkhouse and the view across the Peak District was absolutely stunning.

The descent was when things started to get a little hairy…

We knew it was going to be steep but we weren’t quite prepared for just how steep it would be. After a lot of gradual sliding on bums and adjusting foot placement, we made it to the bottom - very grateful to be on flat ground!

From here, you can either walk along the bottom of the hill back to your car, or you can carry on up to Chrome Hill. Our trek ended here and we headed back to the car in fear of a large dark cloud ascending over the village.

One day, I would love to come back and complete the full loop, but luckily we did turn back because the storm began as soon as we got into the car…

@amys_littletrips x