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Parkhouse Hill & Chrome Hill Circular
By Soft Girls Who Hike
Peak District, UK 
Emily and Lucy, aka Soft Girls Who Hike, are Manchester-based hikers and content creators who coined the term “soft hiking” in 2023, an inclusive term created to limit barriers to hiking. They a soft hiking community on Tiktok, Instagram and Facebook. Soft Hiking is about what YOUR challenge is, and treating it softly and not competing with others or even yourself.
Route
This is an iconic and beautiful circular route with breathtaking views. It takes you up Hollins Hill, Chrome Hill and Parkhouse Hill along the ridge of the aptly named - Dragon's Back.
Follow The Route On ALLTRAILS >
A 2 hour loop
Moderately difficult, with optons for scrambles.
Hiking boots with a good grip, suitable clothing - hat, sunglasses, comfortable clothing, water, food, first aid kit, sunscreen, waterproofs, extra layers, flashlight, back up map!
Hiking Key
The Look
They’ve survived the peat bogs of the Peaks and crossings across streams & puddles.
Moab Speed 2 Mid
We love our boots, practical boots can be cute too!
Moab Speed 2 Mid
Field Notes:
The ridge itself is a geological formation that provides a distinctive landscape feature. The name "Dragon's Back" comes from the way the ridge resembles the spine of a dragon when viewed from a distance, adding an element of mystique and wonder. The peak was breathtaking and we felt like we were in a fairytale - the image of the Dragon's Back appearing as we got closer is ingrained in our minds. Perfect for children with big imaginations! This one is a little trickier under foot with some steep climbs so older children would be more suited.
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Good To Know
The weather can switch up fast in the Peak District so don’t let bad weather put you off, it can easily turn - always bring extra layers and waterproofs! Make sure you also have a head for heights on this one but it is optional whether you want to go all the way to the summit.
"Don't be held back by other people's opinions of you, you deserve to take up space. Nature is for everyone to enjoy!"
When To Visit
Best during dry weather - if you go early morning you may spot a cloud inversion or a beautiful sunrise.
Q&A:
Why did you start Soft Girls Who Hike?
We joined in on a few group hikes with seasoned hikers and realised their hiking style wasn't for us. We decided to document our soft hikes and walks on TikTok and the phrase resonated with so many! We were so surprised but so happy that we weren't the only ones who wanted to find more softness when hiking or walking in the outdoors. Soft hiking essentially means hiking doesn’t have to be hard. It is less about the activity and difficulty level and about being soft and kind to yourself when hiking in the outdoors - it's a mindset thing! The goal of a soft hike is not to reach the finish line in the fastest time but to take your time. Take in your surroundings, be gentle on yourself, fuel your body and take breaks when you need to. It is less about being slow and it is about going at your own pace - this could mean hiking up a mountain, a hill or even just a wander in the woods.
Why do you love hiking?
We love the escapism and a chance to spend quality time with your best friend and have deep chats. It’s essential for your mental health to switch up and have someone you can rely on. It's also great for our physical health and we have noticed such a change in our stamina.
What the one non-safety-essential always in your bag?
Trek bar, of course!
Next dream hiking destination:
We’d love to visit Madeira or Norway! Our dream is to soft hike all over the world some day.
What words of encouragement do you have for someone looking to try hiking?
If you ever feel like you don't fit into the expectations of what a hiker is - then you are not alone. You belong in the outdoors too. Don't be held back by other people's opinions of you, you deserve to take up space. Nature is for everyone to enjoy!
What is your life motto?
Hiking doesn't have to be hard.
HIKING TIPS
- Be safe and plan your route ahead
- Be weather wise, check the forecast
- Take the correct clothing and provisions
- Check if dogs/ camping/ BBQs etc are allowed
- Take your litter with you
- Leave gates as you find them
- Have fun!