Event Overview

The Six Dales Walk is a long-running annual walking and navigation challenge organised by North Leeds Scout District. It is open to teams from Scouting and Guiding, and is designed to test endurance, teamwork, navigation skills, and determination.

The event has been running for over 60 years and takes place on the last Sunday in September each year.

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Who Can Take Part?

The Six Dales Walk is open to teams from anywhere in Scouting and Guiding, including adults.

There are two main routes:

Junior Walk

• Approx. 23 miles

• For ages 10–14

• Adults must accompany junior participants

Senior Walk

• Approx. 42 miles

• For ages 13+, including adults

 

What is the Challenge?

The event is a long-distance walking challenge across the Yorkshire Dales, covering up to six dales in one day. Teams must navigate between checkpoints using their own navigation skills, working together to complete the route safely.

The event is well known for being a serious challenge, and only a small number of teams usually complete the full Senior route each year.

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Route and Checkpoints

Start Location

• Settle Drill Hall

Finish Locations

• Junior Walk finish: Lofthouse Village Hall (approx. 23 miles)

• Senior Walk finish: Pickhill (approx. 42 miles)

Checkpoints are located approximately every 6–10 miles, with checkpoint closing times in place to ensure teams remain safe and do not fall behind.

Full route information, checkpoint locations, and times are normally shared before the event.

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Safety and Support

The Six Dales Walk is fully organised and supported by the event team. Support includes:

• Staffed checkpoints

• Safety monitoring of team progress

• Support teams positioned along the route

• A system to track teams throughout the day

Teams do not need to provide their own permit holders, as the event is managed with full event safety cover.

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Navigation Requirements

Participants should have basic navigation skills, including:

• Reading an OS map

• Using a compass

• Understanding route planning and pacing

Although the event is supported, teams are expected to be self-sufficient while walking between checkpoints.

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Entry Fees and Transport

• Entry fee is typically around £11 per person (subject to confirmation each year)

• Teams must arrange their own transport to the start and transport from the finish

 

Kit and Preparation

All participants should carry appropriate equipment for a full day walking in the Dales, including:

• Walking boots

• Waterproof jacket and trousers

• Warm layers

• Food and snacks for the full day

• Plenty of water

• OS map and compass

• Torch/head torch (recommended)

• Personal first aid supplies (recommended)

Leaders should ensure participants are prepared for changing weather conditions.

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Leader Notes and Recommendations

Leaders are encouraged to:

• Ensure teams train and build fitness beforehand

• Confirm the correct supervision arrangements for junior teams

• Brief participants on teamwork, pacing, and navigation

• Ensure all participants understand the importance of staying together as a team

• Encourage realistic goals and safe decision making

 

Further Information

For full event details, updates, and official information, please visit: www.sixdales.com