Allow
Largely undiscovered lanes and climbs cut through the boundary of the two peaks, dark and white, beyond Chinley and Chapel-en-le-Frith. The scenic isolation of Perry Dale is the worthy pay-off in a strenuous loop that leads from the historic Peak Forest Tramway to the limestone quarries it once emptied.
Route details
- Distance
20.1 miles / 32.3 km - Elevation Gain
585 m / 1919 ft - Time allow 2 ½ hours
- Difficulty
Challenging - Terrain 2% Off-Road Path Traffic-free trails, towpaths & cycleways 98% Road Quieter lanes, sometimes brief busier roads 0% Unpaved Bumpier tracks & bridleways
- Suited to
All Bikes 
Gravel Bikes 
Mountain Bikes - Notes Very steep hills, very narrow lanes. All on quieter lanes except a few very brief connecting roads and one short well-surfaced trail.
- Suggested Start Whaley Bridge SK23 7LS SK 0116 8147
- Places Buxworth, Castle Naze, Chinley, Combs, Dove Holes, Horwich End, Old Dam, Peak Dale, Peak Forest, Perry Dale, Slackhall, Smalldale, Sparrowpit, Tunstead Milton, Wash, Whaley Bridge
- Attributes Accessible by train, Canals, Car parking, Circular loop, Dales, Ideal for electric bikes, Industrial heritage, Railways, Reservoirs, Rural heritage, Steep climbs, Towns and villages, Views of hills and peaks, Views of open countryside
How to unlock
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Thanks for your support!
I’m reserving these original routes and extra pages exclusively for supporters. The one-off contribution supports my work and website costs, with miles of cycling inspiration in return. This online guidebook is still growing, I’m nowhere near done yet, so it’s a great investment in my future plans. Thank you!
Anthony
Original photography, words, routes and design by Anthony Sheridan. Found this page helpful? Buy me a coffee to help keep the wheels turning!
The all-important disclaimer: While great care and attention has been put into gathering these routes, ensuring details are accurate and determining their suitability, all information should be used as a guide only and is not a replacement for using your own judgement or research when setting out on new adventures. Peaks & Puddles/the author cannot be held responsible for any issues that may arise from the riders own decision to ride a section of indicated route.
Always ensure your equipment is safe and legal for use and that you are well prepared, carrying everything necessary including access to a good map. Follow the Highway Code and the Countryside Code at all times. Respect the landscape, the wildlife and the people you encounter. And after all that, have fun!