Calder Valley Wind Farm Wander
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Join us for a challenging but rewarding day walk, just shy of 10 miles in length.
We will be heading out on the moors above Todmorden, near the border of Lancashire and West Yorkshire. Passing inbetween the wind turbines of two different wind farms, crossing open access moorland, exploring forests with hidden bike trails and discovering the beauty of the picturesque upper Calder Valley.
There will be quite a bit of up and down, some rather steep in parts too, around 2000ft total ascent. So by no means will this be a walk in the park. But there will be some spectacular views to take in along the way, with a well earned pub stop before the final climb back to the car park to start heading home. It will most certainly be an enjoyable day and well worthwhile coming along...
I have traveled through this area many times both by train and in the car; every time I was astounded by the stunning scenery and I wanted to stop and go for a walk. This wasn't possible at the time, so now I invite you to come along and experience it with me.
Have you ever looked at a wind farm and wanted to get up close to have a proper look? Wondered what one sounds like, or how noisy they are (if they are) in reality? Do you want to embrace renewable energy? Now is your chance, you can even hug a wind turbine if you like! This walk passes right through the middle of two wind farms, as well as some of the beautiful and varied scenery that surrounds them throughout the Calder Valley.
Dogs are very much welcome, though there are stiles on the route.
What to bring
Water: bring at least two litres
Medicines: if you have hay fever, diabetes, minor ailments etc.
Day rucksack: typically 20-30 litres, they are comfortable to wear and allow you to use your arms freely
Boots: waterproof and breathable and designed for hiking, trainers are OK if the ground is dry and there’s little chance of rain
Gaiters: recommended for wet weather or boggy conditions
Socks: proper walking socks will keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters
Layered clothing: lets you quickly adapt to changes in the weather and body temperature. Go for a base layer (vest or t-shirt) and a mid layer (a micro fleece or shirt) and in cooler weather add an outer layer (a windproof jacket or thick fleece)
Trousers: ideally no jeans as they become heavy and cold in the rain, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry and on warm days shorts are OK
Waterproof jacket: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry
Gloves: Windproof, or better still, waterproof gloves are the best choice, bring a spare pair if expecting rain
Hat or cap: stay warm in winter and shaded in summer
Sunglasses: for any sunny day, even in winter
Sun cream: can be useful even on cloudy and winter days
Snacks: bring biscuits, energy bars, gels, bananas, chocolate or dried fruit for example and put them somewhere easy to get hold of
Lunch: bring a packed lunch
Food & drink
Bring plenty of water, I'd suggest at least two litres.
A packed lunch and snacks to keep your energy levels up.
Money or a bank card to purchase anything, if wanted, from the pub.