(Country) Walking Club

I have been thinking about taking up country walking for a while.  I have done some hiking and lightweight climbing before and I liked it.  My only problem was that I had to do it by myself and I had a scare while trying to hike up Mount Vesuvio and I realized that this isn't a solitary activity because of the risks.

I have looked into walking clubs to join one but I can't find any so I am entertaining the idea of staring one.  For this, of course, I'd need other people.  I'd like to know if any of you would be intereted in this.  It wouldn't be strenuous walking but easy to moderate.  I want to do it mainly for leisure. It would be day walks within drivable distance or easily accesible by train.

If anyone's interested, please let me know!

June

What part of the country?  If you live in the London area and look at Time Out in the Sports section, they have a weekly rambling club listed.

Yes, the London Area.

june i've wanted to do this as well!  i always tell DH we should but we never get off our tookus!

There is a walk from Richmond-Kew that is quite long but supposed to be lovely.

PS if the weather is good, i'd be keen to do this this weekend, maybe sunday?

Aimiloo, I'm going to the in-laws this sunday (and picking up my GPS while I'm at it) but I'm definitely up for this.  I don't work (not sure if you do) so I'd even be up for it during the week if the weather is good. 

June

I would definitely be interested in doing this in the future, but wouldn't be able to this weekend (my mom will be in town).

Just thinking--what type of footwear would you need for a country walk? Just wondering if I have anything appropriate. Might have to go shopping first.

Kate, some waterproof hiking boots would be idea.  I have a pair of mid-range high top Timberlands that are very comfy.  Any hiking show will do really, as most are designed to be water resistant at the very least.  In a pinch, sneakers would be fine.

June

Once I'm completely re-located, I'd love to join any country walks.  How do you feel about a small dog coming along?  I go on long walks with my cairn terrier, Sophie, but she's going to have to wait for all the PET passport stuff to get finished.

Great, just looked in my wardrobe and saw that my waterpoof winter hiking boots made it over here. Ideally I would have something a little lighter weight, but I think these will do. The most action these have seen is walking over icy sidewalks in New York. It will be good to take them for a proper hike.

hmmm i might make DH go with me this weekend then as a trial! 

But i am into it.  I do work however, so I personally would have to do weekends only.

Once I'm completely re-located, I'd love to join any country walks.  How do you feel about a small dog coming along?  I go on long walks with my cairn terrier, Sophie, but she's going to have to wait for all the PET passport stuff to get finished.

Most places allow pets.  If we do go ahead with this club thing, I'd plan the walks in advance and say whether dogs are allowed on the route or not. 

June

That would be excellent.  Sophie is rugged and loves long walks, but is also very well-behaved as well.

Dogs are a must for scaring away the cows!!! 

Dogs are a must for scaring away the cows!!! 

Though a dog might get a bull stirred up...