As the autumn leaves turn, a new series of 14 walks has been unveiled, offering the perfect way to soak up the season’s moods. The 62-mile Steel Cotton Rail Trail, running between Manchester and Sheffield, has been designed as a collection of day-friendly walks suitable for the misty, magical autumn season.
This trail is ideal for an autumn amble because visitors can choose their exact experience. Whether you want to be surrounded by the golds and reds of woodland leaf litter on a riverside path, or take on a misty moorland section with big views, the trail has an option. The abundance of acorns and nuts this “mast year” adds to the seasonal feel.
The 14 sections are all linked by rail stations, making logistics simple. You can leave the car at home, enjoy a point-to-point walk through the eye-calming landscape, and not worry about getting back. The path slopes past charming villages, rural pubs, and historic sites along the way.
The route captures the essence of a northern autumn day, with landscapes that mix wilderness and work. You can walk along the old Peak Forest Tramway, follow the lovely River Goyt, or explore the dramatic gorges of New Mills. The trail is fully waymarked, so you can focus on the scenery, not just your map.
For a perfect autumn day out, simply choose your challenge and altitude, decide between trees or moors, and enjoy one of these 14 new walks. It’s a fantastic new way to explore the beauty of the Peak District at this magical time of year.