The combination of the summer solstice, a full moon, and (at last) a break in the less-than-perfect spring weather meant that we chose the ideal weekend for our dusk-to-dawn hike in the Peak District. The car parks round Ladybower were emptying as we arrived, and it does have a surreal feel to be starting a walk just as the sun is setting.

We started out along the waters edge before turning uphill, through forests and up on to the moorlands that completely encircle the Ladybower valley, with its distinctive flight of granite dams and healthily full waters. Over the moorland we passed, gradually ascending as the light faded, and a strange pink-looking moon climbed over the horizon behind us, the white tufts of cotton grass almost glowing in the dim light. Resisting the temptation to use torches to preserve our night vision, we passed a collection of a few tents, folks wild camping. To the left side of us the moorland dropped and the craggy outline of Alport Castles loomed.

Our route then changed direction, descending from the moorland via a shingly track, knees aching (for the older leaders, at least!) and taking care not to slip. As the path dropped into the forest natural light became scarce, the moon behind the hills at this point, and our trail of torch lights threaded their way down.

Now that we were off the higher ground the character of the walk changed, as we once again followed the edge of the reservoir. Although we couldn’t see the moon, we could tell roughly where it was from the moonlight being reflected off the underside of wispy clouds. Then suddenly there it was, rising up, full brightness mode engaged, casting moonlight shadows. Further on the moon reflected strongly from the waters of Howden Reservoir and through the shoreside trees, a stunning view.

We continued on, passing round the top of the head of the valley, over an old stone footbridge and changing direction to the south – we were now heading on the opposite side of the reservoirs. Along this stretch, now in the early hours of Sunday morning we took our first proper break, resting tired legs and taking some extra calories and fluid on-board.

Though tired, we still had a fair few miles to cover. But, to their credit, each and every Explorer gritted their teeth and cracked on, splitting naturally into groups for conversations about school life, who was the best (and worst) teacher, what the exams had been like, career ambitions, and much more. As an adult leader I always think that it’s so rewarding to see how young people from different age groups, different schools and different backgrounds can connect, strengthen their bonds, freely give each other encouragement, and occasionally burst into laughter at someones crazy comments.

By the time we reached the southern end of our walk dawn had steeled upon us, and the last mile took us up along the waters edge, past hundreds of Canadian geese and back to the cars. A McDonalds breakfast was definitely well earned by all!

Dusk to Dawn Walk June 2024

• Distance: 26km
• Highest elevation: 482m
• Calories burned: 4004kcal
• Blisters: Several