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Pennine Way Day 10 - Middleton in Teesdale to Dufton

This long and varied hike is one of the absolute highlights on the Pennine Way

Also in Durham, United Kingdom

Hiking Severe

Distance
33 km
Ascent
624 m
Descent
667 m
Duration
7-8 hrs
Low Point
186 m
High Point
585 m
Gradient
Pennine Way Day 10 - Middleton in Teesdale to Dufton Map

After 9 days of working your way north, today suddenly takes you westwards in order to access the most spectacular side of the North Pennines. It's one of the longer days on the Pennine Way and one of the absolute best sections of the whole trail.

Description

Despite passing close to so many hills, there's actually a surprising lack of climbing on today's hike, so the large distance covered isn't as daunting as it may initially appear. You'll cover plenty of distance, but most of it is easy going and you'll be able to maintain a decent pace provided your legs are up to it!

The day starts with a beautiful stroll alongside the River Tees on a path lined with wild flowers. The botanists out there will love this section, and the more adventurous amongst you will really enjoy the easy scramble at the end of it which leads to Cauldron Snout waterfall. There's nothing too technical or exposed on the scramble, but it would still be preferable not to slip, so take your time and make sure of your footing all the way.

Once above Cauldron Snout you've got a long and beautiful journey westwards along Maize Beck and then high above High Cup Gill before the descent down to Dufton. It's a long day, and it can be broken up by staying at Forest-in-Teesdale or Langdon Beck, but neither are well positioned and aren't as logical as continuing to Dufton. They also don't have as many accommodation options as Dufton, so pushing on all the way there is tiring but worth the effort in order to set yourself up for tomorrow's trip to Alston.

Difficulty

Severe

Hiking challenging trails where simple scrambling, with the occasional use of the hands, is a distinct possibility. The trails are often filled with all manner of obstacles both small and large, and the hills are very steep. Obstacles and challenges are often unexpected and can be unpredictable.

High Exposure

3 out of 4

Some trail sections have exposed ledges or steep ascents/descents where falling could cause serious injury.

Remoteness

3 out of 4

Little chance of being seen or helped in case of an accident.

Best time to visit

between April and October

Features

  • Wildlife
  • Historical
  • Picturesque
  • Dog friendly
  • Wild flowers
  • Family friendly

Guidebooks in this area