Join us for a relaxing walk chatting about rivers and spotting wildlife while soaking up some fresh air and meeting new friends.

As part of our Rivers4Life project, funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, this is the first of our youth wellbeing walks, designed for young people aged 18 to 30, who would like to discover new places in the Yorkshire Dales with friendly, like-minded people. The walk will give you the opportunity to explore the landscape at a gentle pace, combining outdoor activity with the chance to meet new friends and connect with nature.

The walk, led by staff from the Yorkshire Dales Rivers Trust, is in upper Wensleydale, starting and finishing at the Dales Countryside Museum in Hawes. At the end of the walk you will have the opportunity to visit the Rivers4Life exhibition free of charge!

Starting from the Yorkshire Dales National Park car park in Hawes, our route follows public footpaths across fields, open lower fell, meadows, woodland and short sections of quiet road.

As we walk, we’ll let you know about some of the work which the rivers trust are involved with to help our rivers. We’ll also be looking out for the rich variety of wildlife that thrives here, from wildflowers and butterflies to birds and anything else we can spot on the way!

Grade: Moderate

Distance: Approximately 7.5 miles

Duration: Around 5.5 hours including a stop for lunch and shorter breaks. There is an optional free tour of the Rivers4Life exhibition at the end of the walk.

What the route is like:

Public Rights of Way across fields

Open lower fell section

Short sections of road

Some sections include gentle climbs

Stiles

Some narrow and uneven paths

Mobility:

Suitable for young people who are generally fit and comfortable walking longer distances

Not suitable for wheelchairs due to terrain, gates, and uneven ground

Footwear and Clothing advice:

Walking boots required

Waterproof jacket and warm layers recommended

Bring refreshments and any personal medication

Wet weather or hot weather gear advised depending on conditions

Meeting Point (What3Words)

Meet at the Yorkshire Dales National Park car park at the Dales Countryside Museum (NGR: SD 87559 89875)

This car park is located off the A684 as you enter Hawes from the east. It is a pay and display car park. There may be free on-road parking on nearby roads.

The nearest toilets are in the museum car park. There are shops and cafes in Hawes. Bring a packed lunch and water.

Public transport: 859.pdf

What3Words: ///boggles.silly.timer

This event is funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, thanks to players of the National Lottery.

Description supplied by the event organiser.