Thousands make the trip up to Rivington Pike on Good Friday every year, but for one year only, people are being asked to stay away.
The annual walk up Winter Hill was started as a Christian pilgrimage in the 19th century and now generations of families of all backgrounds have adopted the tradition.
But this year land owners United Utilities are urging people to stay away from the Pike, confirming that all the company's car parks, toilets, and gates are currently closed.
An Easter fair is also traditionally held at Rivington but United Utilities confirmed this would not be happening this year.
A spokesman said: "We’re sorry to be doing this but for the well-being of everyone in our communities we need to restrict the numbers of visitors to Rivington this Easter.
"It’s particularly important on Good Friday as the Pike is a traditional favourite for families and we have seen tens of thousands of people walking up there in previous years.
“The risk of Covid-19 transmission means that this year it just would not be safe.
"Even on the walking paths maintaining a safe social distance would not be possible.
"We have spoken to the traditional fun fair providers, and neither they nor the usual catering stalls will be there.
"This will be incredibly disappointing news to many, but we hope they will understand why."
