In my opinion the most important section to recce is from Kinder Downfall, across the plateau. There is no obvious line and it is definitely not wise to follow others here (not even Dark Peak-ers!)as everyone seems to take different lines with varying degrees of success.

following the Penine Way from Black Hill onwards is far from the optimum line (IMO) and you would have to make a detour to Higher Shelf trig. The direct lines from Crowden across Bleaklow to Snake summit are also well worth recce-ing if you have time.