2026 Challenge – Latest News

Only two out of the original sixty-one Challenges remain unclaimed as we approach the end of January. Applications arrived briskly over Christmas and New Year. As in 2013, we have had to ‘double up’ on our Cumbrian Challenges in that two members have been allowed to apply for the same Challenge. There are a number of reasons for this, not least a little reluctance maybe, to venture into Yorkshire? Anyway the procedure has worked well, so far, with thirteen Challenges being shared. This is not the case further east and where it has only occurred once, between Kiplin Hall and Danby Wiske, a lovely walk across fields and through woodland, rather than the laborious slog along tarmac that it used to be.

The two unclaimed Challenges are Ch 08 between High Gillerthwaite (Ennerdale) and Honister Hause plus Ch 60, a part hike (9.5 mile one way) of the famed Lyke Wake Walk. Ch 08, starting from Ennerdale, crosses High Stile and Haysatcks, on one of the Coast to Coast’s high-level alternative routes. The Walks Organiser eagerly awaits to hear from intrepid volunteers keen to take on these outstanding Challenges.

However, late applicants also will be pleased to read that there are still a handful of Challenges that remain to be doubled before we are full up.

We also have some news regarding the wildfire damage that occurred in Langdale Forest and on Fylingdales Moor last August. On 5th December 2025, the North York Moors National Park advised that quote ‘Public Rights of Way are now open and the temporary suspension of Open Access to this area has ended, this includes the Coast to Coast and Lyke Wake Walk routes.’
Challengers should always follow any advisory signage and remain on the designated paths.

Enjoy your Challenges!