Top 10 On Foot Experiences

The Three Peaks - can you rise to the 3 Peaks Challenge and complete the ascent and descent of Ingleborough, Whernside and Pen-y-ghent within twelve hours?

Coast to Coast - The classic walk, devised by the late Alfred Wainwright in 1973 to link the Irish Sea and the North Sea via the hills, moors and valleys of northern England. This 190 mile route crosses two of Yorkshire's National Parks, the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors.

Complete one of Yorkshire's National Trails: Discover 300 miles of waymarked walking, mountain biking and horse riding across wild and wonderful Yorkshire landscapes. Long distance trails are a great alternative for a break from home and enable you to explore even more of an area. Set yourself a personal challenge and grasp that fantastic sense of achievement that comes with tackling one.

Try one of Yorkshire's many Walking Festivals
Black Sheep Boots & Beer Walking Festival, 7-9 September 2012 - What could be better than a weekend of great walks, beautiful countryside, fantastic beer and excellent entertainment? This is just one of the many fabulous walking festivals you'll find throughout the county.

Take on the toughest challenge walk around, the 100km Oxfam Trailtrekker, 26-27 May 2012
Teams of four people attempt to cover the demanding 100km course within the 30 hour time limit. With the average time to complete the course being around 28 hours and only 70% of entrants in 2009 finishing, it's not an event for the faint hearted. But for those who do take on the challenge it really is an incredible experience combining teamwork, endurance and mental strength.

Sign up before 17 February 2012 and your team will only have to pay an entry fee of £150 rather than the standard £180.

3 Peaks Fell Race, Yorkshire Dales, 28 April 2012
Get ready for the toughest fell race across 24 of the most rugged miles. The 58th annual 3 Peaks Race is not for the faint-hearted. Taking in the famous Yorkshire Dales mountains of Pen-y-ghent, Ingleborough and Whernside, whether you fancy a challenge or want to support the runners, don't miss this fantastic spectacle.

Challenge yourself at one of Yorkshire's Adventure Races. Think these are only suitable for hardened mountain types who think nothing of running several half marathons before lunch?  Then think again... it can be fun for all the family.

You could even swap your two feet for four hooves and go llama trekking around picturesque Nidderdale. And the best bit is, the llamas carry your picnic. A half day trek covers approximately 3.5 miles over fields, tracks, woods and gentle roads. It does contain hills, but nothing too strenuous.  Alternatively, how about taking a halter trained alpaca for a walk in the Hambleton Hills? Walks of 1, 1.5 or 2 hours are available for adults over 16 (younger children over 10 can accompany an adult). These delightful creatures are curious and friendly, most endearing and easy to handle.

For an unusual way of enjoying the countryside, visit Pesky Husky Trekking near Scarborough and become a 'musher', an integral part of a husky dog sled team. With expert instruction on a purpose built circuit, you can become a "musher" for a few hours.  You can also try out two wheeled Pawtrekker scooters, powered by two of the strongest huskies.  Bet you didn't expect this in Yorkshire!

The Huskies are used to cool conditions so trekking is from October to the end of March only.

If your pace is a little faster, Jelley Legs organise guided runs and running breaks for all abilities in the North Yorkshire countryside, letting you explore great running areas that you wouldn't necessarily know about. 

They provide accommodation, food and a pick up and drop off from the station. You can bring along non-running friends and even your dog!

Natural Perspectives in collaboration with Nordic Walking UK bring Nordic walking to Natural Retreats in Richmond,
North Yorkshire. The 'Learn to Nordic Walk' weekends take place in the Swaledale.

Nordic Walking was originally used by elite cross country skiers as a way to stay in top shape throughout the summer
months. Unlike when trekking or rambling, Nordic Walking poles are planted behind you in order to propel you along;
engaging the upper body and making you feel lighter on your feet. The advantages to this performing technique include
using 90% of your major muscle groups in both your lower and upper body and you can burn up to 20-40% more
calories.

Dates:

Friday 27th - Sunday 29th April 2012

Friday 28th - Sunday 30th September 2012