A local walking group is helping Salford residents reconnect with nature and build confidence outdoors.
Moors to Mountains Adventures, founded by outdoor enthusiast Colin, offers guided walks and navigation workshops that have become a hit with locals eager to explore the city’s scenic trails.
He founded Moors to Mountains fifteen years ago after years of exploring the West Pennine Moors with friends. What began as casual weekend strolls soon evolved into a thriving network of walkers of all ages and abilities.
“It started as something small, just friends heading out on the moors,” Colin recalls. “People saw how much it was improving our wellbeing and wanted to join in. We even began running charity walks for Macmillan Cancer Care and Manchester Children’s Hospital and it just grew from there.”
Moors to Mountains runs guided walks and navigation workshops across Greater Manchester and beyond, including routes through Salford’s beautiful green spaces like Clifton Country Park, as well as along the Manchester, Bolton and Bury Canal trail.
Colin’s sessions teach participants how to use maps, compasses and other essential navigation skills, empowering them to explore safely and independently.
“It’s amazing to see someone who once thought a map was just a load of squiggles go on to lead a group across open moorland,” Colin says. “That’s what it’s all about – building confidence and showing people what they’re capable of.”
Since lockdown, interest in walking has soared, with many locals rediscovering Salford’s trails such as the Salford Trail and Kingfisher Trail. Colin believes this renewed appreciation for nearby nature has been one of the most positive outcomes of recent years.
“Being forced to stay local made people realise just how beautiful their surroundings are,” he says. “It’s brilliant to see so many exploring what’s right on their doorstep.”
For many participants, the benefits go well beyond fitness. The walks offer space to socialise, unwind and reset. “The best part is seeing people make friends and leave feeling proud of themselves,” Colin adds.
Moors to Mountains has also teamed up with Michelle from Happy Chakras and Colin’s mum to run Woodland Wellbeing events that blend yoga, mindfulness and nature walks. “It’s been really well received,” he says. “People love the chance to slow down and recharge.”
Looking ahead, Moors to Mountains has big plans for 2026, including new routes, more local navigation sessions and even night-time walks for those looking for a challenge.
For those who’ve joined a session, it’s clear Moors to Mountains Adventures isn’t just about walking. It’s about rediscovering joy, confidence and community, one step at a time.
Find out more at facebook.com/moorstomountainsadventures.
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