Recommended map: The Peak District Dark Peak Area 1:25000, Outdoor Leisure 1

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Start at Ashopton viaduct over Ladybower reservoir at SK198864; there's parking along the roadside though it soon fills up at weekends. Cross the road into an obvious driveway by the reservoir, follow this, do not pass through the gate but swing right and continue for about 300m to a footpath on the left leading into the woods. Follow this, undulating then rising to a rough track, follow this right to the escarpment at SK198874 where there is a sign post. The route from here is obvious in clear weather and takes a well-worn footpath following the escarpment, north at first then soon NE with the reservoirs on the left, Strines area down to the right. After about 1km pass the Wheel Stones, a curious collection of gritstone towers. Here the track trends NW and passes other strange boulders arriving at Derwent Edge in another km or so. The track now trends north and after a further 1.5 km arrives at Back tor SK198910, characterised by a white trig point on its summit.

Just before the tor, a track heads off on the left, follow this over Lost Lad, a small hill with directional cairn. Follow the path for another 800m or so heading west then follow more tracks as they trend leftwards, eventually heading south. Keep straight on near a plantation and eventually drop down to the side of Ladybower reservoir. Turn left and follow the obvious track back to the viaduct. Allow 3.5 hours walking time.

Points of interest. Gritstone escarpments and rocks, stunning views.