A group of eight and Poppy gathered on a very cold morning and under an overcast sky we followed the frozen footpath up to Derwent Edge. At Whinstone Lee Tor not only were we feeling warmer but the sun had reappeared and the clouds were dispersing. Snow covered the landscape as far as the eye could see in all directions, and below us patches of ice were visible on Ladybower reservoir. We continued along the edge into a cold fresh breeze, with hard packed snow underfoot. In the lee of Back Tor we had a brief break, before making our way to Lost Lad. Again we paused briefly to admire the all-round views, and the sharp sighted amongst us were able to identify the Holme Moss mast in the far distance.
We descended to a small plantation for an early lunch, a fallen tree providing a convenient seat. We did not linger long, and made our way down to the side of the reservoir, feeling warmer out of the wind. A short walk brought us to the path up Grindle Clough. Avoiding the ice underfoot and the mountain bikers approaching us from both directions, made for an interesting ascent back to the Edge. Here we took the path by the grouse butts until it crossed the unfamiliar (to some) Highshaw Clough. We followed the clough back to the main path and Cutthroat Bridge, just as the drizzle and predicted thaw arrived.
An excellent winter walk in almost perfect conditions. 10.2 miles, and thanks to all who came.
Sean.
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