By Coriarna Morris
Blazing a Trail: Reflections on the Staffordshire Blaze Trails Seven Summits Series
In February 2025, I launched the Staffordshire Seven Summits Series to introduce families to the joy of hiking by exploring some of Staffordshire’s highest hills. I wanted to inspire a love for nature, nurture confidence, and create lasting memories for families, encouraging people to spend more time outdoors, develop resilience, and experience the beauty of their local landscapes. That was the spirit behind the Staffordshire Blaze Trails Seven Summits Series, and now that we’ve completed all seven, it’s safe to say: what an adventure it was.
What began as a simple idea—to bring people together to explore some of
Staffordshire’s most beautiful high points—turned into something far more special.
Over several weeks, a growing group of walkers (and a few energetic dogs) tackled each
summit with enthusiasm, laughter, and a real sense of community. Some of us did all
seven; others dipped in for a few. But every summit brought its own magic.
Here’s a look back at the seven hills that shaped our journey:
1. Camp Hill
We started with Camp Hill in South Staffordshire—a gentle, welcoming climb that set the tone for the series. With sunshine on our backs and around 20 walkers in tow, it felt like the perfect way to ease into things. The route offered open fields, a bit of mud, and a sunny pub garden finish—where we were told we were the first group to sit outside that year.
A good omen, perhaps.
Read the full Camp Hill blog or fancy giving the walk a go yourself follow our route on Komoot
2. Mow Cop
Next came Mow Cop—a striking hill crowned with its iconic folly. Perched on the edge of Staffordshire and Cheshire, the climb gave us sweeping views and a taste of the more dramatic terrain ahead. The wind was bracing, but the summit smiles were big. It felt like we were starting to hit our stride.
Read the full Mow Cop blog or fancy giving the walk a go yourself follow our route on Komoot
3. Bunster Hill
Bunster Hill, near Ilam, brought a sense of peace. The route wound through some of the
most postcard-perfect countryside of the series, with rolling hills, stone walls, and curious sheep. The climb was difficult due to the weather- however the second time round made it more accessible.
Read the full Bunster Hill blog or fancy giving the walk a go yourself follow our route on Komoot
4. The Cloud
The Cloud offered a new kind of energy—woodland paths, steeper ascents, and a dramatic reveal at the top. With panoramic views stretching across Cheshire,
Staffordshire and beyond, this summit gave us one of the most rewarding vistas of the series. And for those who hadn’t climbed it before, it was a real highlight.
Read the full The Cloud blog or fancy giving the walk a go yourself follow our route on Komoot
5. Ecton Hill
Ecton Hill took us off the beaten path. With its mining history and rugged landscape, it felt like a walk through time. The weather held, the terrain challenged us a bit more, and the summit gave us a unique view across Staffordshire’s wilder side. It was a lesser-
known gem, and we were glad to share it.
Read the full Ecton Hill blog or fancy giving the walk a go yourself follow our Komoot Route here
6. Gun Hill
Gun Hill was short but sweet. A quieter walk, tucked away between Leek and The Roaches, it offered a peaceful escape and expansive views. It felt like a moment to breathe before our final, most dramatic summit.
Read the full Gun Hill blog or fancy giving the walk a go yourself follow our route on Komoot
7. The Roaches
We finished big— with The Roaches. This iconic ridge delivered everything we could’ve hoped for: rocky paths, steep climbs, and breathtaking views. Some of us had
climbed it before, but for many, it was their first time. When we finally reached the trig point, we took our time at the top, soaking it all in, taking photos, and quietly celebrating the end of our journey. Seven summits, countless memories.
Read the full The Roaches blog or fancy giving the walk a go yourself follow our route on Komoot
What We Took Away
Looking back, the Seven Summits Series became more than just a walking challenge. It
brought people together. It gave us reasons to explore places we might not have visited
otherwise. It reminded us that Staffordshire’s countryside is full of surprises—and that
sometimes, the best views come after a bit of mud and effort.
Whether you joined us for one summit or all seven, thank you for being part of it. The
laughs, the stories, the shared sandwiches and pints—it all added up to something we
won’t forget.
Here’s to more trails, more hills, and more moments that remind us just how good it
feels to walk side by side, up and over the next horizon.
Seven summits down. And who knows? Maybe more to come.