Specialist recreation

A diverse range of sports and recreational pursuits take place in the National Park. All make an impact to some extent. This can range from an individual presence which may reduce the wilderness experience for another moorland user, through large groups of challenge walkers or cyclists, to more extreme cases of motorised access off-road where major erosion or noise pollution can occur.

Specialist activities including fell running and cycle-orienteering take people through some of the most special areas of this treasured landscape and so there is a need to link enjoyment and recreational activities with an increased awareness of the potential impact of particular activities on the special qualities of the area.

The National Park Authority seeks to promote opportunities for the enjoyment of those special qualities and recognises the tremendous impact that even a simple “breath of fresh air” can have on an individual’s health and spirit. Some activities can however be noisy, damaging and intrusive, so organisers are encouraged to find ways of keeping the detrimental impact of their events to a minimum.

• For further information contact us or telephone Karl Gerhardsen at the National Park Office, Helmsley, 01439 770657.