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Wee walks in Scotland's biggest national park are being promoted again.
From September 9–15 the Cairngorms National Park is celebrating and promoting the best short local walks with the aim being to encourage as many people to get out there with friends, colleagues or neighbours.
All are invited to join a Ranger-guided walk or try out one of the park’s many health walks.
Studies show that walking is an effective form of exercise – just 30 minutes a day is enough to make a significant difference to a person’s health. It reduces the risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, cancer, and type two diabetes as well as keeping the musculoskeletal system healthy. Just as importantly it also promotes mental wellbeing and can help tackle issues around social isolation.
Initiated four years ago by the Cairngorms National Park Authority through its Active Cairngorms campaign, the idea behind Wee Walks Week is to help people discover the health benefits of being active daily.
Wee Walks Week isn’t a walking festival with organised, or "led" walks, it’s much more informal and the CNPA hopes that people who take part will feel the better for it and make it a regular part of their daily or weekly routine.
Xander McDade, the CNPA convener said: “The Cairngorms National Park is the UK’s biggest and has the best wee walks by a mile! Investment in local path networks over the last 15 years has thoroughly enhanced that offering further with all abilities paths too. There are so many options for people to enjoy a nice walk and feel the restorative benefits that come with it.”
Through Active Cairngorms, residents and visitors are encouraged to enjoy and use the park for physical activity on a daily basis and in doing so improve their general health and wellbeing.
Adam Streeter-Smith, one of the CNPA’s outdoor access officers commented: “Wee walks are a great way to get outdoors – they are fun, free and help you to feel great. A wee walk can be as short as you like, but usually under four miles on good paths and gentle slopes.
"With the excellent path network we have in and around communities, the Cairngorms National Park can definitely help prompt active lifestyle changes for people.”
There is more info on the CNPA website and the authority would appreciate feedback. There's a short online survey for those interested in winning a Columbia jacket.
"Please also feel free to share your Wee Walks Week photos on social media using #WeeWalks" said Xander.
