Hikers Tackling Britain’s National Park Walks

Some of the most interesting and yet challenging hiking is provided by the UK's National Park walks. Many of these are well-known, such as the Pennine Way or the Viking Way, and can be longer than 250 miles.

Further information about National Park walks can be found at theNational Park's Website http://www.nationalparks.gov.uk/visiting/outdooractivities/walking. Here there is plenty of useful information about the many different National Park walks available such as 214 of Alfred Wainwright's walks in the Lake District or the Coast to Coast which runs from St Bees in Cumbria and ends in the North York Moors town of Robin Hood's Bay.

For those attempting National Park walks of such magnitude as the Pennine Way in one go, then it should be noted that this task is suitable only for those who have walking experience, are fit and healthy and (it almost goes without saying) that they are able to carry a backpack comfortably.

Importantly the choice of equipment for such an expedition should take into account several things such as making sure that it's waterproof, windproof and perhaps even foolproof (depending on the hiker of course)! Things such as tents, sleeping bags, cooking equipment and food all need to be carried, as well as the essential survival kits, first aid and water supplies (the latter being especially important during the summer months).

Hiking along one of the National Park walks is a valuable experience for those wishing to achieve something truly special, but the challenges that these impressive and protected parts of the UK countryside can throw at even the most experienced backpacker, can be the utmost test of strength, ability and stamina.

If all of this sounds far too arduous, then there are plenty of alternatives. Whatever your ability, the National Park walks provide an opportunity for everyone to get out and about in some of the most beautiful landscapes that Britain has to offer.