Frequently Asked questions
What is the Six Dales Walk?
The Six Dales Walk is an annual team walking and navigation challenge for members of Scouting and Guiding. It traverses up to six of the Yorkshire Dales, offering a test of endurance and teamwork
Who can participate in the Six Dales Walk?
The event is open to teams from anywhere in Scouting and Guiding, including adults.
When is the 2026 event scheduled?
The 202 Six Dales Walk is scheduled for Sunday, September 27th 2026.
What are the different walk options available?
â—‹ Junior Walk: Up to 23 miles, for participants aged 10 to 14, who must be accompanied by an adult.
â—‹ Senior Walk: Up to 42 miles, for participants aged 13 and older, including adults.
What is the Fee for the event?
The Fee for the event is £11 per person, so that means every walker needs to pay to walk the event.
Do teams need their own hillwalking permit holders?
No, special arrangements are in place so that individual teams do not require their own hillwalking permit holders.
What is the purpose of the Six Dales Walk?
The walk aims to build teamwork and offers a real challenge with a true sense of achievement for those who participate. It also provides an opportunity for a great walk in the Yorkshire Dales.
Can participation count towards any awards?
Yes, it can count towards the Scout Adventure, Teamwork & Team Leader Challenge Awards.
How long has the Six Dales Walk been running?
The event has been run for over 60 years, making it a well-established tradition.
Are there any age restrictions for the Junior Walk?
Yes, the Junior Walk is for participants aged 10 to 14, and they must be accompanied by an adult.
What is the success rate for completing the Senior Walk?
Only 1 or 2 teams usually finish the Senior Walk each year, highlighting its challenging nature.
What is the age requirement for the Senior Walk?
Participants must be aged 13 or older to take part in the Senior Walk.
Is the route the same for both walks?
Yes, the two walks follow the same suggested route, but the Junior Walk finishes at roughly the halfway point of the Senior Walk.
Is prior navigation experience required?
While the event is well-organized, participants are expected to have basic navigation skills to complete the challenge.
Where does the walk take place?
The walk crosses up to six of the Yorkshire Dales, offering participants a scenic and challenging route.
Are there checkpoints along the route?
Yes, the event includes checkpoints to monitor progress and ensure participant safety.
How is the event organised?
The event is organised by the North Leeds Scout District, ensuring a well-organised experience with a full safety support team.
What should participants bring?
Participants should come prepared with appropriate walking gear, including suitable footwear, clothing, and navigation tools.
Is there a support team during the event?
Yes, a full safety support team is in place to assist participants throughout the event.
How many adults can walk with scout teams?
At least one Adult is required but teams are welcome to have 2 walking but no more than that.
Can teams from outside North Leeds participate?
Absolutely, the event is open to teams from anywhere in Scouting and Guiding.
Does an adult from the team need to stay with a member who dropped out?
​If a member of your team drops out no adult needs to stay as the person who dropped out will be supervised by checkpoint Marchells.
Where can I find more information or express interest?
For more details and to express your interest in participating, visit the official website: sixdales.com.
Transport to and from the event and during the event?
The Six Dales Walk does not offer transport to and from the event start or finish, teams are required to make their own way there and back, However during the event there is transport to move participants from one checkpoint to another, Junior walkers will be taken to Lofthouse and Senior walkers will be taken to West Tanfield.
Can Teams be accompanied by a non scout leader?
Yes, Teams can be accompanied by a non scout leader as long as they have a DBS and have read and understood the Safety and Safeguarding card From the Scout Association.
Six Dales Walk – Event Timeline
Junior teams will complete their journey by mid-afternoon, with trophies awarded between 3–5 pm, while senior teams continue into the evening, finishing by 8 pm with awards and celebrations.
View the full rough timeline for detailed checkpoint times and closures: