🗺️ The route
Free to viewSnake woodlands is a classic starting point for many beautiful Peak District walks, this one is super short at only 1.5 miles out and back with a hidden waterfall. This route is a great option for a sunny day picnic when you don’t want to be walking miles.
What to expect
This is a short walk but can be muddy as the path runs alongside the river. A lot of the further out trees had been cut down the last time we went but its still very pretty by the river.
There are often sheep grazing just through the woodland, so keep dogs on leads at all times.
Getting there & parking
Hope Woodland Car Park – S33 0BJ. This is limited lay-by parking only at this point, so make sure to time your visit well when coming here. There are more lay-bys further up the road but the A57 between both points is very busy, you don’t really want to be walking along it.
Good to know
No, there aren't any on this route.
On lead only.
Expect woodland path, riverside underfoot. What we wear for it ↓
The route
- 1.5 Miles
- 1 Hour
- Easy
A simple one and a half mile out and back route through the beautiful Snake woodlands and to the hidden waterfall. Cross the A57 and head into the woodlands before turning left over the bridge and following the river towards your second bridg, turn right at this point and you’ll soon spot the waterfall on your left.
Step-by-step
- From lay-by parking cross the main road on the corner, it is a busy road so please be careful here.
- The path will take you down into the woods and you'll see a bridge on your left, cross this.
- Follow the path riverside the same way and into the deeper woods.
- You'll fins many great picnic spots along this bit, but after about half a mile you'll come to the end where it opens up and there's another bridge over the river.
- Cross this second bridge, enjoy the peaceful setting here before heading right along the fence line.
- After a short walk, about 5 minutes you'll see the waterfall on your left.
- The river is a dark amber colour but the view down the valley is amazing.
- When you're ready to head back to the car, just retrace your footsteps and walk the same way back.
Your walk
Heading out? Take this walk with you
Free members get the tools to follow it on the day, so you're not relying on phone signal.
- GPX downloadFor your phone, watch or Komoot.
- Printable route cardOne page with the route, pit stops and an emergency line.
- Track it & get the stampTick it off and add the miles to your log.
Tips & what to bring
This route is often muddy, so good shoes you don’t mind getting dirty are always the best choice. If you do bring a picnic, please make sure you take all your litter home with you and leave no trace. Unfortunately this spot gets a lot of rubbish left here and it ruins it for everyone. If you bring it with you, take it home.
What we'd pack for this walk
See how we wear it →Kit we actually use, picked for this route.
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For muddy paths Char wearsLowa Renegade GTX (Women's)
A classic supportive waterproof walking boot for longer days.
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When the weather turns Ads wearsRevolutionRace Waterproof Jacket
Bright, fully waterproof shell for proper British weather. Ads' go-to in the orange.
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Room for water & snacks Char usesDeuter Speed Lite 23
Lightweight, low-bulk pack for fast, lighter days.
