The Dragon’s Back – Chrome Hill – Parkhouse Hill: An unforgettable hiking trail in the Peak District National Park.

Did you know? Dragon’s Back | Chrome Hill & Parkhouse Hill, served as the iconic backdrop for the final scene of Peaky Blinders! Nestled in the heart of the Peak District, this legendary landmark is a must-see for all nature enthusiasts and fans alike.

The Peak District is known for its stunning landscapes, rolling hills, and breathtaking views. But few hikes in this area can compare to the Dragon’s Back trail, which runs along the top of Chrome Hill and Parkhouse Hill. These two hills are famous for their unique and striking formations, making them some of the most recognizable hills in the UK.

The Dragon’s Back hike is a challenging adventure that requires some physical fitness and good hiking gear. But for those willing to make the effort, the rewards are plentiful. The hike offers spectacular views of the Peak District, with rolling hills, fields, and forests stretching out in every direction.

https://youtu.be/LSPeIEU9dTM
Cinematic Short Film – The Dragon’s Back: Solo Hiking | DJI Air 2S
Filmed & Edited By Papa Bear
All Rights Reserved
https://youtu.be/oJ8sWA8LklM
Cinematic Short Film – The Dragon’s Back: Solo Hiking | DJI Air 2S
Filmed & Edited By Papa Bear
All Rights Reserved

One of the main challenges of hiking up Chrome Hill is the uneven terrain, which can be slippery and unstable in places. Hikers should wear sturdy shoes with good traction and be prepared to scramble up steep sections using their hands and feet. It’s also important to be aware of the weather conditions, as the trail can be muddy and slippery after rainfall. But the views from the top are worth every step.

 

The starting point for the Dragon’s Back hike is the small village of Hollinsclough, located in the heart of the Peak District. Parking is limited at the base of the hills, so it’s recommended to arrive early to secure a spot. The trail up to the summit of Chrome Hill can be challenging, but is also very rewarding. The hike is approximately 3 miles round trip, with an elevation gain of about 1,000 feet. The trail starts off fairly easy, with a gentle incline through fields and along a stream.

 

 

As you make your way up Chrome Hill, you’ll notice the unique formation of the hill. The Dragon’s Back formation was created millions of years ago during the Carboniferous period, when the Peak District was covered by a shallow sea. Over time, layers of limestone and shale built up on the seabed, and then were gradually uplifted and folded by geological forces. As a result, the layers of rock that make up Chrome Hill were tilted and exposed to erosion by wind, rain, and ice, which gradually carved out the distinctive shape of the Dragon’s Back.

 

As you make your way up Chrome Hill, you’ll notice the unique formation of the hill. The Dragon’s Back formation was created millions of years ago during the Carboniferous period, when the Peak District was covered by a shallow sea. Over time, layers of limestone and shale built up on the seabed, and then were gradually uplifted and folded by geological forces. As a result, the layers of rock that make up Chrome Hill were tilted and exposed to erosion by wind, rain, and ice, which gradually carved out the distinctive shape of the Dragon’s Back.

After taking some time to soak in the views, the trail then leads you down to the Parkhouse Hill. The hike up Parkhouse Hill is challenging but rewarding. The route is steep and rocky in places, so it’s important to wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for some scrambling.

The trail starts at the foot of the hill and follows a well-marked path up the steep incline. As you climb higher, the views become more and more spectacular, with panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside opening up around every bend. About halfway up the hill, you’ll come to a steep, rocky section known as the ‘squeeze’.

This part of the trail requires some careful navigation, as you’ll need to climb over a series of large boulders to continue on. Once you’ve made it through the squeeze, the trail becomes less steep and the terrain becomes more grassy. From here, it’s a short walk to the summit, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

The summit of Parkhouse Hill offers some of the best views in the Peak District. On a clear day, you can see for miles around, with stunning panoramas of the Derbyshire Dales and the Staffordshire Moorlands. If you’re feeling brave, you can climb to the top of the distinctive limestone pinnacle at the summit. The climb is not for the faint of heart, but the views from the top are truly spectacular.

 

In conclusion, the Dragon’s Back hike is a challenging adventure that requires some physical fitness and good hiking gear. But for those willing to make the effort, the rewards are plentiful. The hike offers spectacular views of the Peak District, with rolling hills, fields, and forests stretching out in every direction. It’s a must-do for any experienced hiker looking for a unique and unforgettable adventure. Just be sure to pack appropriately and take your time, as the hike can be quite challenging in places.

https://youtu.be/VuzY-b_5ZFg
“The Dragon’s Back”: Chrome Hill & Parkhouse Hill | Solo Hiking
Filmed & Edited By Papa Bear
All Rights Reserved
“The Dragon’s Back”: Chrome Hill & Parkhouse Hill
Photography By Papa Bear
All Rights Reserved
“The Dragon’s Back”: Chrome Hill & Parkhouse Hill
Photography By Papa Bear
All Rights Reserved
“The Dragon’s Back”: Chrome Hill & Parkhouse Hill
Photography By Papa Bear
All Rights Reserved
“The Dragon’s Back”: Chrome Hill & Parkhouse Hill
Photography By Papa Bear
All Rights Reserved
“The Dragon’s Back”: Chrome Hill & Parkhouse Hill
Photography By Papa Bear
All Rights Reserved
“The Dragon’s Back”: Chrome Hill & Parkhouse Hill
Photography By Papa Bear
All Rights Reserved

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