Peak District road trip
Snake Pass itinerary
Snake Pass is the A57 driving route over the Peak District between Glossop and Ladybower Reservoir — about 14 miles (22 km) and 30 minutes' drive, climbing to a summit of roughly 512 m (1,680 ft). It works best as part of a day route with walks, reservoirs and nearby villages rather than as a standalone long-distance road trip.
- Duration
- 1 day
- Distance
- 14 miles
- Start and finish
- Glossop to Ladybower Reservoir
- Best time
- Clear spring, summer and autumn days are best. Check road conditions before travelling because Snake Pass can close during snow, landslips, wildfire incidents or roadworks.
See the ready-made plan
The full Snake Pass itinerary is already plotted in the planner, day by day. Open it to see the route on the map, then drag stops, add your own and keep notes as you go.
Why drive the Snake Pass?
A focused Snake Pass driving guide for the A57 between Glossop and Ladybower, with Peak District stops and safety notes.
- A57 moorland road between Glossop and Ladybower
- Ladybower Reservoir viewpoints
- Glossop and the High Peak
- Optional loops to Castleton, Edale or Derwent Reservoir
1 day Snake Pass itinerary
Morning
Glossop to the Snake Pass summit
Start in Glossop, climb steadily onto the moor and use designated lay-bys for views rather than stopping on bends or verges.
Midday
Descend toward Ladybower
Continue toward Ashopton and Ladybower Reservoir, allowing extra time for traffic, cyclists and changing weather.
Afternoon
Extend the route
Add Derwent Reservoir, Bamford Edge, Castleton or Edale to turn Snake Pass into a fuller Peak District day trip.
Planning tips
Check the road before you leave
Snake Pass is prone to weather-related closures and maintenance works, so check local highways updates on the day.
Use it as a scenic link
The pass itself is short. Build a better day by linking it with Ladybower, Derwent, Castleton or Glossop.
Expect mixed traffic
The A57 carries commuters, cyclists, motorbikes and visitors. Keep speeds conservative and avoid risky overtakes.
Snake Pass FAQ
Where is Snake Pass?
Snake Pass is the A57 road across the Peak District between Glossop and the Ladybower Reservoir area.
How long is Snake Pass?
The scenic pass section between Glossop and Ladybower is roughly 14 miles, or about 22 kilometres.
How long does it take to drive Snake Pass?
The 14-mile A57 pass between Glossop and Ladybower takes about 30 minutes without stops, but allow longer for traffic, cyclists and the lay-by viewpoints — and check for closures before you set off.
How high is Snake Pass?
Snake Pass climbs to a summit of roughly 512 metres (1,680 feet), one of the highest trans-Pennine roads — which is why it is so prone to snow and weather-related closures.
Is Snake Pass always open?
No. It can close because of snow, landslips, wildfire incidents or roadworks, so check current road conditions before travelling.
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- Distance
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