How long will the walks be?
The length of our walks will vary from day to day, but expect an average of 3-4 miles per walk, with the occasional 5 mile day. We will be walking on most days.
What do you mean by the elevation gain?
The Yorkshire Dales is a landscape of rolling hills and river valleys. Whilst we are not at a great elevation above sea level, most walks will involve several climbs and descents which can amount to a significant elevation gain over a day’s walking. Walks will sometimes involve moderate ascents where you might expect to get out of breath. Elevation gain per walk will be in range of 250 - 900 feet.
What kind of paths will we be walking on?
Whilst we will sometimes be walking on country lanes, farm tracks and easily identifiable paths, the majority of our walks will also involve walking on more informal paths through rough fields, woodland, open countryside and moorland. We may also walk on stony paths and tracks which may be narrow and steep. Paths may be wet and muddy (occasionally slippery) after rain. We will encounter a variety of stiles and livestock. None of our walks will require specific technical skills.
What about the weather?
British weather has a reputation for being changeable, and this can be particularly true in the Fall. Periods of calm, fine weather can quickly be interrupted by longer spells of wind and rain (sometimes heavy) or by low cloud, mist and fog. Average temperatures for September and October are in the range of 42 - 58 degrees Fahrenheit although it can feel colder than this in the hills. Your walking leaders will make regular weather assessments, and plans and routes may occasionally have to be changed at short notice.
Will I need any special clothing or equipment?
We will send you a recommended equipment list closer to the tour, but you will be required to wear suitable outdoor footwear for the terrain and conditions. These must be waterproof walking boots, with sturdy soles, good tread and ankle support. You will also be expected to carry an appropriate waterproof jacket (with hood) and waterproof trousers. Goretex, or similar, is ideal. Walking poles, whilst not required, are recommended. You will need a comfortable backpack large enough to carry spare clothing, your packed lunch and water/snacks for the day.
How can I prepare for the trip?
This tour is graded as having a Mobility Comfort Level of 4+. As such, you agree that you "love to walk and have no problems walking distances of 4 miles".
By its very nature, walking across varied terrain in changeable weather for several hours can be strenuous. In order to enjoy your trip to the full we recommend the following:
continue to enjoy regular walks of at least 4 miles or more in the lead up to the tour
try to seek out opportunities to walk up hills
get used to wearing the boots and carrying the backpack that you intend to use on the trip to ensure that they are comfortable
Who will be leading our walk?
Lisa and Liz are UK qualified Hill and Moorland walking leaders. They are accustomed to walking in the terrain and weather conditions that are found in the Yorkshire Dales at this time of year. Your Fiber Ambassador, Lindsay is also a regular walker and will accompany us on the walks with her customary good cheer and lively conversation.
THE RISKY BIT...
Walking in the countryside is an adventurous activity that carries a certain level of inherent and unavoidable risk of personal discomfort, accident or injury. Part of the attraction of hill walking is the challenge of tackling different terrains, landscapes and weather conditions. Every effort is made to minimize potential risks and hazards. The most common accident and/or injury in the outdoors include slips, trips and falls, as well as personal injury such as blisters, strained muscles, scratches and stings, sunburn, getting cold and varying degrees of personal discomfort due to weather and/or ground conditions. Of course, more serious accidents/injuries may occur due to the natural environment (steep, uneven, rocky, wet, slippery ground), personal health issues and extreme weather conditions. By taking part in this activity, you are aware of and accept these risks.
And finally...
As with all of the best laid plans, the routes that we have planned for you may be subject to change. Your walking leaders will be continually monitoring weather forecasts and local conditions and some changes may occur at short notice for your comfort and safety. During the walk, it may also become necessary to adjust our itinerary due to adverse weather conditions, pace of the group, fitness and ability levels, accidents or injuries etc. In extreme circumstances the walk may be terminated. The decision to change or terminate the walk lies solely with the Walk Leader.
If you have any questions that have not been answered here, please contact us info@rowantreetravel.com.