Most people climb Stoodley Pike from the Calder Valley, but there are other ways. On the stealthy approach from the rear, sheep and Highland cattle look up in surprise, for few walkers climb the ancient footpaths from Cragg Vale. Then suddenly, as you emerge from the forest, the magnificent monument appears ahead. The view may have to be shared, but the descent is often solitary on a hillside of golden, winter-bleached grass to the blue waters of Withens Clough Reservoir.
LOCATION: Four miles south of Hebden Bridge
START: Cragg Vale. Roadside parking near Hinchliffe Arms, more parking on B6138, by school
Grid ref: SE000233 Postcode: HX7 5SX
DISTANCE: 5.5 miles
GRADE: Moderate, with a climb to Stoodley Pike
TIME: 3 hours
MAP: Explorer OL - South Pennines Landranger 103
REFRESHMENTS: Hinchliffe Arms
EN ROUTE: Withens Gate, Pennine Way
This walk was originally published by
The Manchester Evening News