Mytholmroyd to Todmorden over the tops
When: Saturday 21st February 10:00AM (finishing around 3:30-4:45pm) (option to stay on for a drink)
Where: Meet @ Mytholmroyd Train Station
Distance: 11.6 km
Duration: 5 hours (with breaks)
Parking: There is rail user parking at Mytholmroyd Train Station, and a number of on street options on Scout Road and Cragg Road.
Walk Leaders: Owen and Ray
Description: This is a slightly longer walk than usual - a nice 7 miles/11KM! Beginning in Mytholmroyd, we will initially take a pavement route toward Cragg Vale, where we will then turn onto a lovely wooded riverside trail by Cragg Brook. Soon reaching the midpoint of the valley we will take our time climbing up a long country lane to Withens Clough Reservoir where we will take a break. Here we will have widening views across the water and onto the moorland ahead. Continuing on we will take our last climb steadily, following old dry stone deer park walls for fantastic views opening up onto the beautiful Calder valley and Stoodley Pike monument.
Though nearly half the route is solid surfaces, the other half is not and will require attention passing through unavoidable very muddy and wet sections. The 300 metres ascent means you’ll have some significant uphill which is compressed to the middle of the walk, with the final third section a rewarding flow of packhorse trail set against expansive views ahead.
What to bring: Sturdy shoes with ankle support that can withstand wet, boggy and uneven ground. Hiking boots are recommended but decent trainers with lugs if you don’t have boots. Warm layers and a waterproof jacket. Hat and gloves if you have them. Waterproof trousers if you have those. Make sure you keep warm, and it's better to carry that extra layer even if you don't use it. 2L of water. A packed lunch and plenty of snacks to keep you going. With the potential of quite cold weather, consider bringing a hot drink in a flask/watertight travel mug for that warm boost. Lastly, lunch and snacks that are brought in/out of your bag are a good idea if it's cold as we may take shorter but more frequent breaks.
Toilets: Can be found at The Dusty Miller pub and The Blue Teapot cafe. (These are participants in a community toilet scheme) All the other toilet options en route will be normal pubs until our arrival in Todmorden.
Vibes: Historic paved tracks, warming hills, squelchy walking, winter light, views and new pals.
Dogs: Well behaved dogs on leads are welcome :)
Route: Mytholmroyd to Todmorden
This is a linear walk. Those travelling by car and needing to return to the start point at the end, can take the 2 stop train journey from Todmorden back to Mytholmroyd.
Walk leaders
Ray Loakes (they/them): Hi! I’m Ray, a queer, neurodivergent personal trainer in Manchester. Outdoor activity and movement have been life-changing for my physical and mental wellbeing, and I love finding ways to make exercise accessible, enjoyable, and welcoming for others. I love creating opportunities for people in our communities to get moving, connect with others, and share the joy of being active in nature.
Owen (Hey/They): Outdoor sports and nature have been a lifelong passion of mine, and I’m excited to bring together queer people who are experienced in outdoor sports and eager to share their love of adventure"
Look out for these lovely faces!
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IMPORTANT Everyone taking part in any group walk or event does so at their own risk.
By attending a group event you acknowledge that the leaders may not necessarily hold any formal qualifications in relation to walking leadership, first aid or medical training.
The group events on the same basis of being a group of friends who go outside together, who invite others to join them on this basis. Event organisers and event hosts assume no responsibility for anyone attending any group event. When you join a walk or other event you attend as a guest, you indicate that you accept these conditions and accept that no legal liability is accepted by the group, group organisers, walk organisers or event hosts in the event of accident or injury, however caused.
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