It is not a contest of speed or endurance, rather it is an adventure in health, recreation, fellowship and fun. A well-marked course is set up, usually winding through a particularly scenic or historic area, with water and rest stops along the way and marked with signs, ribbon, or chalk.
Participants walk at their own pace and can stop along the way to shop or have a picnic.
Most events are 5 or 10 kilometer walks. Directions are supplied at the start, describing the preset route of the walk. Some events are guided walks, where a leader will lead a group on the route. In this type of walk, people of similar walking speeds will be grouped together. Most walks, though, can be walked individually or with friends.