Steel Cotton Rail Trail: Edale to Chinley

What makes the Steel Cotton Rail Trail special is the variety – one day you’re on canal towpaths, the next you’re tackling high moorland. The section from Edale to Chinley definitely falls into the tougher camp. You’ll climb the infamous Jacob’s Ladder, cross wild stretches of Kinder moorland and take in the views of Mount Famine before dropping down to Chinley station. It’s a demanding walk, but also one of the most rewarding sections of the trail.

This post came about after a lovely invite from the High Peak and Hope Valley Community Rail Partnership, who asked me to help spread the word about their new walking trail. I wasn’t paid to do this – I just thought it was a great idea worth sharing.

Walk Highlights

Jacob’s Ladder

This is the big climb of the section – a steep old packhorse route up onto the moors. created by Jacob Marshall who lived at Edale Head House in the 18th Century. He was a pedlar who cut these steps into the hillside as a shortcut – packhorses used another path. It’s tough, but once you’re up, you’re rewarded with far-reaching views and a real sense of stepping into wild country.

Moorland Walks

The plateau and surrounding ridges here give you proper Peak District moorland: big skies, stone slab paths (these stones came from the floors of mills in the surrounding cities), and a sense of space. It’s one of the wilder parts of the whole trail, but also my favourite!

Mount Famine

Despite the name, Mount Famine is a stunning little peak with a sharp profile and brilliant views back over the valley. It adds some drama to this already spectacular section.

You can find the whole trail details here: Steel Cotton Rail Trail

Walk Details: Edale to Chinley Leaflet

Walk Map (Opens in OS Maps): Steel Cotton Rail Trail: Edale to Chinley

Parking: Edale Station, Marys Lane, Edale S33 7ZN W3W:///wildfires.football.bake

Dogs: Allowed, but must be on a short lead during nesting season and around livestock.

Facilities: Public toilets in Edale a short distance from the Penny Pot Cafe. The route passes the Ramblers Inn and the Old Nags Head inn in Edale.

Walk Time: 3-4 hours

Difficulty: ▲▲▲

Distance: 7.9 miles (12.71km)

Elevation: 175ft (457m)

Trig Points Bagged: None

Peak District Peaks Bagged: None

Peak District Ethels Bagged: None

Check out the main Steel Cotton Rail Trail page for all the stages.