🗺️ The route
Free to viewThis Chrome and Parkhouse hill circular is without question, one of the best walks in the Peak District and with 360 views from the top, it’s easy to see why it’s called the ‘Dragon’s Back’.
What to expect
The walk starts off easy on a tarmac lane in the village of Earl Sterndale, but once you get onto Chrome Hill, it becomes much tougher. It’s steep, slippery and can feel exposed at times, the path isn’t always obvious, but choose your route carefully and if you pick a clear day the views from up here are amazing.
Getting there & parking
Parking is limited as its just at the roadside in Earl Sterndale – SK17 0BS.
Good to know
No, there aren't any on this route.
No, dogs aren't allowed on this walk.
Expect ridge walk, basic scrambling, field paths underfoot. What we wear for it ↓
The route
- 4.6 Miles
- 2-3 Hours
- Moderate
This is a circular route with a lot of ascent and descent but trust us, it worth it for the views. Heading along the road to approach Chrome Hill first gives you the best view of the ‘Dragon’s Back’.
Step-by-step
- From Earl Sterndale, head down the road, cross the main road and up the other side.
- After approx 1 mile you'll see a footpath on your left with a view to 'The Dragon's Back', take this.
- It will lead you through fields and to the top of Dowel Dale, follow the road up here.
- You want to take the first left after crossing a cattle grid, then cross over another one and immediately turn left to follow the wall.
- The path will take you through a couple of field and down a steep hill to start the first climb onto Chrome Hill.
- Follow the ridge across Chrome, down the other side and up and across Parkhouse Hill.
- From Parkhouse, you need to follow the path across the road, up the other side and towards Earl Sterndale to where you parked the car.
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
You’ll need good sturdy footwear for this one as there are stretches where its a little scrambley and you might have to go hands on. The rocks underfoot can get slippery and there are sections that can be very muddy, even in summer.
What we'd pack for this walk
See how we wear it →Kit we actually use, picked for this route.
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Grip on rock We both wearLa Sportiva TX4
Grippy, supportive approach shoe we wear on rockier Peak trails.
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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.
