Peak District · England
Snake Pass
The A57 over Snake Pass climbs from Glossop onto the high moor below Kinder Scout and Bleaklow, then twists down through forest to Ladybower Reservoir. It is one of the most famous driving and riding roads in England.
- Distance
- ≈ 13 miles
- Twistiness
- 4/5
- Best season
- April – October
- Best for
- Cars & bikes
Why go
What makes Snake Pass special
- Open moorland summit at around 510 metres
- Long sequence of linked bends through the Woodlands Valley
- Finish at Ladybower Reservoir and its viaducts
Watch out for
- Average-speed cameras cover the route
- Closed or restricted after landslips and in snow
- Heavy weekend traffic and cyclists on the climb
Road conditions change. Check closures, weather and local restrictions before you set off, and always ride and drive within the limit.
As a group
Taking a group over Snake Pass
Snake Pass works well for groups. Brief the group at Glossop, keep two-second gaps through the bends and regroup at Ladybower Reservoir car parks. Sweep can see who's behind throughout.
One shared route
Everyone on the same line from the start.
Lead and sweep
Sweep sees exactly who's behind.
Planned regroups
Stop at Ladybower Reservoir car parks.
FAQ
Snake Pass: common questions
How long is Snake Pass?+
Snake Pass runs for about 13 miles from Glossop to Ladybower Reservoir in Peak District.
When is the best time to drive or ride Snake Pass?+
The best season is April – October. Go early in the day to avoid traffic, and check for closures in poor weather.
Is Snake Pass good for motorcycles?+
Yes — Snake Pass is a popular motorcycle road with a twistiness rating of 4 out of 5. Average-speed cameras cover the route.
Can I ride Snake Pass as a group?+
Snake Pass works well for groups. Brief the group at Glossop, keep two-second gaps through the bends and regroup at Ladybower Reservoir car parks. Sweep can see who's behind throughout.
Keep riding
More roads you'll like
Cat and Fiddle Road
The A537 between Macclesfield and Buxton crosses high moor past the Cat and Fiddle, one of the highest inns in England. Fast sweepers, blind crests and huge views have made it a byword for British biking roads.
Winnats Pass
Winnats Pass climbs out of Castleton through a steep limestone gorge with gradients around 1 in 5. It is short, spectacular and narrow — a road to enjoy at a gentle pace rather than a fast one.
Leek to Buxton
The A53 rises from Leek past the gritstone edges of the Roaches and Ramshaw Rocks, then runs across open moor to Buxton. It is quicker and more flowing than its neighbours, with a real sense of height.