Mountain Hare Discovery Experience
Experience Of The Year 2023: Gold Award
Highlights - see rare Mountain Hares in the Peak District National Park
A fantastic and unique walking and nature experience which takes you on a choice of walks to one of the wildest parts of the Peak District National Park. Here we will spend time observing the beautiful mountain hares in their natural habitat. You will also have the opportunity to learn about the ecology and restoration of these amazing bog and moorland habitats as well as other wildlife.
Observe rare mountain hares in their only remaining location in England
Learn about this unique area’s nature and conservation with your guide
Private walking tour tailored specifically to you
5 to 8 hour experience (depending on your route and timing preferences)
Specially selected to be part of the official English National Park Experience Collection
The highest points of the Peak District are the only places in England where you can still find mountain hares. During winter (November to April), when they change to their white winter coats, is a great time to view and photograph mountain hares in their natural habitat. Due to the cold at this time of year many people prefer to view them during the warmer months when conditions are easier and more comfortable. May, June and October are some of my favourite times so view them.
Most people will never see the mountain hares when walking in the hills but I have a 100% record of seeing them on these trips. The day will be planned specifically for you and will provide plenty of time to watch these amazing animals.
To get to the optimum locations involves a walk of around 3-4 miles in each direction from the nearest access point. There are also a number of other routes that provide for longer and perhaps more dramatic walking options that you can choose from.
There will also be the chance of seeing short eared owls, golden plover, red grouse, kestrels and other wildlife on these trips, particularly in spring, as well as learning about the ecology and restoration of these amazing bog and moorland habitats.
See below for further trip details
Terrain
There are a number of different locations and routes to choose between. The grades below represent the shorter route.
Grade: Moderate (suitable for people with a reasonable degree of fitness)
Total Length: 12km/7miles
Total Height Gain: 250m/800ft
The walk is mostly on a mixture of good tracks and smaller footpaths which are quite rough in places and includes a few gradual hills. Some of the path is paved and tends to be a little slippy when wet. At any time of year there are likely to be some muddy sections, especially once we start to head away from the Pennine Way across the moors. The terrain here becomes rough with no paths once we get to the hare locations. The location is high and exposed to the weather, especially in winter. In the event of adverse weather (e.g. gales, widespread snow or ice) we would contact you to discuss options including rescheduling or refunding. If you'd like to find out more about the trips suitability please contact us.
Recommended Equipment & Clothing
Appropriate walking clothing to keep you warm on the day (no jeans as they can be cold & uncomfortable if wet). Thermal base layers are recommended in winter.
Waterproof jacket.
Waterproof trousers.
Spare warm layers & insulated jacket if possible (it can be very cold whilst watching the hares)
Walking boots (accessing the hares involves crossing some rough and uneven ground so waterproof boots that go above the ankle providing good ankle support and keeping your feet dry, are strongly recommended rather than low cut walking/trail shoes on most walks. Boots will keep your feet drier than walking shoes in boggy areas). No Trainers.
A spare pair of walking socks or waterproof socks can be useful in case your feet get wet.
Warm hat and gloves (if the forecast is wet, a spare pair is also recommended)
Food, drink and snacks for the day. We will stop for food whilst out on the hill. A hot flask is a good idea in winter.
Personal first aid kit (for minor cuts, blisters, sun cream, pain relief and any personal medication).
Rucksack with waterproof liner/bag.
Hand sanitiser and face covering recommended. A face mask/covering does not generally need to be worn, however whilst virus levels remain high it would be recommended in emergency situations to help protect people whilst providing first aid or assistance.
Optional additions: head torch in autumn/winter, camera, binoculars, gaiters and/or walking poles if you use them.