Trails & Inspiration

Discover Your Trail - Part 7: Derwent and Ladybower

Here at Sportsshoes we love to hear about and share the incredible hiking and running trails across the UK and beyond (you can check out our UK’s Best Walks & Hikes series to see for yourself). That’s why we’ve worked with The North Face to create the ‘Discover Your Trail’ komoot Collection and ask 7 different hikers across the country to share with us their personal stories and favourite hiking routes. 

CHECK OUT THE NORTH FACE x SPORTSSHOES ‘DISCOVER YOUR TRAIL’ KOMOOT COLLECTION HERE

In part 7 of this series, Marie Cheng, tells us all about a 10K circular around Derwent and Ladybower in the Peak District, as well as her inspirations for running and hiking.

You can check out Marie’s hike here on komoot:

Hi! My name is Marie and I'm a runner, skier and all-round outdoor enthusiast. I am also a dog mum to my 2-year-old border terrier cross toy poodle Millie; whom I suspect was a mountain goat in her past life and is a huge ball of energy! 

It's been almost two and half years since I left the big city of London and my corporate job in 2019, to pursue a life closer to the outdoors. That journey took me to the city of Sheffield on the outskirts of the Peak District, and where I was spoilt for choice with how close hikes, dog walks and runs could be from my front door. 

This 10k circular hike in the Upper Derwent Valley, taking in the stunning locations along Ladybower Reservoir and Derwent Edge is in fact only a 15-20 minute drive from Sheffield, and perfect for a sunny Sunday walk or a post work sunset as the days get longer.

Two years ago, my dog Millie and I did a similar walk when she was only a 4-month old puppy but in the winter. So, it only seemed fitting to return, both older but hopefully a little wiser, to see how far our journey had come!

Ladybower Reservoir and Derwent Edge are two popular locations for a lot of hikers coming to the Peak District. The paths are well-trodden but can sometimes still be a little boggy as well as rocky in sections. 

Car Park access is good with parking on the A57 laybys, Fairholmes Car Park as well as Cutthroat Bridge, and a number of pubs nearby for post hike grub!

Pictured: The North Face VECTIV Fastpack FUTURELIGHT Mid hiking boots

For the hike I wore The North Face VECTIV Fastpack FUTURELIGHT Mid hiking boots, a comfortable and cushioned hiking boot, with rock solid stability via the 3D VECTIV Plate and good traction and grip from the outsole. The rocker midsole creates a sole shape that is intended to turn your energy into a forward motion propelling you forward. 

SHOP ALL THE NORTH FACE FASTPACK HIKING BOOTS HERE

Whilst sunny of late, there has still been a distinct wind chill in the air. The North Face Athletic Outdoors Insulated Hybrid Jacket provided warmth and comfort for the early Spring weather, particularly over the full-zip mid layer and the woven pants were comfortable and forgiving to be able to move with ease on the trails. 

SHOP ALL THE NORTH FACE ATHLETIC OUTDOOR HIKING RANGE

Pictured: The North Face Chimera 24L Women's Backpack

Photos: Gilly Photography

Follow Marie and all her outdoor komoot adventures here.

-

Join our Sportsshoes x komoot community now to find inspiration, plan outdoor adventures and share your stories. Because it's no fun standing still.

Head over to the SportsShoes Hiking Hub for more inspiration, tips and motivation, and if you are looking for any gear, checkout our Hiking Shoes, Clothing and Equipment.

Related posts: www.sportsshoes.com/hiking-hub/trails-inspiration/the-north-face-sportsshoes-discover-your-trail-komoot-collection/

Check out our Trails and Inspirational category to discover the most amazing trails and hikes in the world, as recommended by our athletes, ambassadors and loyal customers.