The best mountain hikes around Greater Manchester

Mountaineering routes in Greater Manchester offer a diverse landscape, ranging from rugged gritstone moors and expansive hill country, particularly as you approach the Peak District and South Pennines, to more tranquil reservoir valleys and local woodlands. You'll encounter varied ascents and descents, with some routes featuring challenging gully scrambles and notable rock formations.

There are currently 7 mountaineering routes around Greater Manchester detailed on komoot. These routes offer a range of experiences, from moderate ascents to more challenging trails, allowing you to explore the region's diverse landscapes.

Yes, there are routes suitable for those looking for an easier mountaineering experience. For example, the Mountaineering loop from Snake Pass is rated as easy, covering 6.0 km with a modest elevation gain, making it a good option to get started.

For those seeking a challenge, routes like the Wilderness Gully – View of Chew Valley loop from Greenfield offer a difficult experience with rugged gully features and significant elevation. Another demanding option is the Wain Stones (Kissing Stones) – Torside Clough loop from Crowden, which traverses moorland and features iconic rock formations.

Many of the mountaineering routes in Greater Manchester are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Wayoh Reservoir Dam – Turton and Entwistle Reservoir loop from Entwistle, which offers a moderate challenge around scenic reservoirs, and the Mount Famine – Coldwell Clough Descent loop from Hayfield.

Mountaineering routes in the region often feature impressive natural landmarks. You might encounter dramatic gritstone formations like the Wain Stones on the Wain Stones (Kissing Stones) – Torside Clough loop from Crowden, or explore the rugged gully features of the Wilderness Gully – View of Chew Valley loop from Greenfield. The area also boasts numerous reservoirs, such as Dovestone Reservoir and Entwistle Reservoir, which are often part of or near mountaineering trails.

The mountaineering routes in Greater Manchester are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 5.0 stars from 2 reviews. Users often praise the diverse terrain, the challenging nature of some ascents, and the stunning views, particularly those overlooking the Chew Valley or from moorland vantage points.

While many mountaineering routes can be challenging, some areas offer more accessible paths suitable for families. Consider exploring the local green spaces and reservoir walks, which provide a taste of the region's natural beauty without the extreme difficulty of advanced mountaineering. For specific routes, look for those rated as 'easy' or 'moderate' and check their distance and elevation profiles.

Many of the trails and open access land in Greater Manchester and the bordering Peak District are dog-friendly, but it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, especially in areas with livestock or ground-nesting birds. Always check local signage and be prepared to use a lead. Some routes might involve stiles or rugged terrain that could be difficult for some dogs.

The best time for mountaineering in Greater Manchester is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to October) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. During winter, conditions can become challenging with snow and ice, especially on higher ground in the Peak District and South Pennines, requiring appropriate gear and experience.

Yes, Greater Manchester offers excellent opportunities for climbing. The region is close to gritstone crags like Windgather Rocks in the Goyt Valley, Wimberry Rocks near Glossop, and Alderman Rocks near Rochdale, which cater to various skill levels. Additionally, there are numerous indoor climbing centers such as Rock Over Climbing and Parthian Climbing, providing year-round options for climbers.

Greater Manchester benefits from good public transport links to its surrounding natural areas. Towns like Edale, Hope, and Hathersage in the Peak District are directly accessible by train from Manchester Piccadilly, providing immediate access to popular hiking and mountaineering starting points. Local bus services also connect to many of the regional parks and reservoir areas.

Absolutely! After your mountaineering adventure, you can explore various nearby attractions. The region boasts several scenic lakes, such as Dovestone Reservoir and Entwistle Reservoir, which offer additional walking opportunities or simply a place to relax. For those interested in cycling, there are also bike parks like Philips Park Mountain Bike Trails in the wider Greater Manchester area.