The art of scrambling takes a while to perfect. It’s a type of climbing that falls between hill walking and rock climbing and is a method of going up ridges and rocky faces. The difference here though is that you scramble up your route with your hands used at all times, as well as your feet in the ascent. Sometimes ropes are necessary on harder scrambles, but usually it’s just you and your body to get you through.
Peak District scrambling is all about climbing up and sustaining rock contact all the way up to the summit. The Peak District is great for exploring all its fantastic contorted rock formations and it has many stunning geographical features which can be walked on, climbed on, bouldered on – but the art is to learn when and how to put your hands down.
The Peak District is an area really rich in walking and rock climbing routes but it’s not known for its scrambles – particularly for beginners. It’s great territory for learning the basics and dealing with different types of rock before you move onto full on scrambles. Places such as Carl Wark, Higger Tor, The Roaches and Crowden Tower are great places to learn the sport and not get hurt.
Peak District scrambling is all about training your body to respond instinctively to the feel of rock and its movement under your hands and feet. It will teach you the risks while you’re still in a controllable and comfortable environment. Always go with a partner who can help you if you get stuck or twist your ankle. The rocks will tumble down if you go at it too hard, and Peak District scrambling means the element of danger is always near. Once you have mastered Peak District scrambling then why not think about going further afield such as Snowdonia or the Lake District?
