Landstriders

Not all adventures are about speed, some are about steady movement, great company, and exploring the trails at a walking pace. The Landstriders group from Norfolk Trail Runners focuses on hiking the trails of Norfolk, offering a welcoming and inclusive way to stay active, enjoy nature, and build fitness for trail running and endurance events.

Led by Nancy, Fiona, Paul, and Steve, with support from other group leaders, the Landstriders meet on Wednesdays for a relaxed but purposeful trail hike.
Each session typically covers around 5 miles, depending on the terrain and location. Expect a pace of roughly 11 minutes per kilometre (about 18 minutes per mile), with only brief stops for photos and to take in the views.

This session usually lasts 1.5 to 1.75 hours and includes all the essentials that make trail walking fun — hills, mud, and plenty of friendly conversation.

Trail hiking with the Landstriders offers a full-body workout without the intensity of running. It’s ideal for:

• Runners recovering from injury, illness, or races
• Those building a base for future trail running training
• Anyone who prefers to stay active outdoors without running
• People who find running in the dark challenging but still want to enjoy the trails

Many members also run during the week but use the Landstriders sessions to keep their legs moving and maintain endurance while recovering.

Hiking is a crucial part of trail running and ultramarathon training. Many long-distance trail events include sections where walking or power-hiking is essential for conserving energy and managing elevation.

The Landstriders sessions are a great opportunity to hone your walking technique, practise efficient climbing and descending, and improve your endurance for future trail running adventures.

To enjoy trail hiking safely and comfortably, we recommend bringing:

• A good waterproof jacket to stay dry in wet Norfolk conditions
• Trail shoes, walking or hiking boots with grip and support for muddy or uneven terrain
• Walking poles (optional) to help on hills or technical sections or even on the flat to help posture and speed
• Headtorch during the winter months for early evenings or darker trails
• Layered clothing to adapt to changing weather

Having the right gear ensures your trail hiking experience is enjoyable, safe, and prepared for all Norfolk trail conditions.

The Landstriders group is growing, and new ideas are always welcome! If you have suggestions for routes, activities, or improvements, reach out to Steve, Nancy, Fiona, Paul or any of the group leaders.

We’re also keen to welcome more volunteers, whether you’d like to help lead a walk, plan routes, or support with logistics, we’ll make sure you’re well-prepared to get involved.