Description

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. 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.