Trails & Inspiration

Discover Your Trail - Part 1: Ashford-in-the-Water to Monsal Head Viaduct

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 1 of this series, Zeyn Lambat tells us all about his hike from Ashford-in-the-Water to Monsal Head Viaduct, as well as his inspirations for hiking and photography.

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

Hi! I’m Zeyn and I work as a full-time content creator based in Leicester, far away from the beautiful countryside! So, when I do get the opportunity to get out on the mountains and the great outdoors, I try and make the most of it.

Hiking is a form of escape and being immersed in the natural world makes you realise what’s important in your life. This is where you are rooted and where your mind feels natural and happy. You smile without reason. You feel your heart beating. Every moment feels special.

I first hiked way back in 2014 as a fresh-faced university student. I was eager to add mountaineering as an experience on my CV hoping it would land me my dream job. Life had other plans, and I didn't hike again until late 2019, when I was offered a job to create content for an organisation taking a group up Kilimanjaro. This time around, I invested in the right gear and it quickly became a new-found hobby!

Although this loop from Ashford-in-the-Water to Monsal Head Viaduct seems short, it includes every kind of terrain you can think of. There are incredible views, rivers, a waterfall, small villages and plenty of countryside – with a challenging ascent as you head into the final few miles. As you approach Monsal Head, there’s a beautiful viewpoint where you can relax and grab some refreshments, that's if you make it in good time! As you leave the viewpoint, you can even take a stroll in the incredible tunnel if you’re feeling adventurous.

This hike provided me with the perfect opportunity to test the new range of The North Face hiking gear. I wore The North Face VECTIV Fastpack Futurelight Mid Hiking Boots and I was really impressed with both the weight and durability of the boot, as I’m used to heavier boots. I was also surprised that the boots are waterproof, really useful when we approached the waterfall!

SHOP ALL THE NORTH FACE FASTPACK HIKING BOOTS HERE

Pictured: The North Face VECTIV Fastpack Futurelight Mid Hiking Boots

The hiking trousers were very comfortable and most importantly, breathable. I was nearly in two minds whether to wear shorts, as the sun was beaming down! However, the trousers worked a treat.

SHOP ALL THE NORTH FACE WALKING TROUSERS HERE

The North Face Basin 36L Backpack was lightweight, yet very spacious. As the day got warmer, I was able to pack away my The North Face Athletic Outdoor Insulated Hybrid jacket, and comfortably carry my camera gear and snacks. It also has a waterproof rain cover, ideal for changeable weather conditions.

SHOP ALL THE NORTH FACE BACKPACKS

SHOP ALL THE NORTH FACE ATHLETIC OUTDOOR HIKING RANGE

Overall, this was a great hike and one which felt even more enjoyable because I was wearing the right clothing and shoes. Although we were blessed with the sun, I was prepared if the weather took a turn for the worse. On another note, I was fasting on the day, and everything felt light – which made the walk feel even easier.

If you're heading to the Peak District for a walk with friends or family, then check out this hike! I can guarantee you'll take some amazing photos of the route and have a wonderful day in the great outdoors.

Photos: Zeyn Lambat 

Follow Zeyn and all his outdoor komoot adventures here.

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