Dartmoor National Park: Hiking, History, and Legends

Dartmoor National Park Hiking Trails for All Skill Levels - Explore the Moors

Okay, so you're thinking about Dartmoor. Good choice! Dartmoor National Park is a seriously stunning place. Think wide open moorland, granite tors that look like they've been dropped from the sky, and a history that stretches back, well, a *long* way. And hiking? Forget perfectly manicured paths; this is wild, untamed beauty. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just fancy a gentle stroll, there's something for you. Let's dive into some of the best trails, shall we?

For beginners, try the easy loop around Burrator Reservoir. It's mostly flat, with fantastic views of the water and surrounding woodland. It's perfect for families too, and you might even spot some of Dartmoor's famous ponies. Expect a leisurely couple of hours. Or how about a walk along the River Dart itself? There are plenty of spots where you can paddle your feet (if you’re brave enough – that water can be chilly!).

If you're after something a bit more challenging, consider tackling Haytor Rocks. It's a bit of a climb, but the panoramic views from the top are absolutely worth it. On a clear day, you can see for miles! Just be careful, the rocks can be slippery, especially when wet. And for the truly adventurous, there's the Two Bridges to Princetown trail. This is a longer hike across open moorland, so make sure you're prepared with good boots, waterproof gear, and a map and compass (or a GPS device). The landscape is breathtaking, but it can also be quite exposed, so be mindful of the weather.

Dartmoor History - Ancient Sites and Folklore Legends

Dartmoor isn't just about beautiful scenery; it's steeped in history. We're talking ancient history! You'll find standing stones, stone circles, and burial cairns dotted all over the landscape, remnants of a time long gone. One of the most impressive is Spinster's Rock, a neolithic dolmen that's been standing for thousands of years. It's a truly awe-inspiring sight.

Then there's the folklore. Dartmoor is a place of myths and legends. Tales of pixies, ghosts, and the infamous Hairy Hands abound. The Hairy Hands, legend says, are disembodied hands that try to grab the steering wheel of cars on a particular stretch of road near Postbridge. Spooky, right? And let's not forget the Hound of the Baskervilles, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's famous Sherlock Holmes story that was inspired by Dartmoor's eerie atmosphere. Even if you don't believe in ghosts, it's hard not to feel a sense of mystery when you're wandering across the moor.

Essential Hiking Gear for Dartmoor National Park - Product Recommendations

Okay, so you're ready to hit the trails. But before you do, let's talk gear. Dartmoor weather can be unpredictable, to say the least. Sunshine one minute, torrential rain the next. So, being prepared is key.

• Hiking Boots: Absolutely essential. Forget your fancy trainers; you need something sturdy and waterproof. I'd recommend the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX (around £140). They're comfortable, supportive, and have excellent grip. Alternatively, the Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof (around £120) are a great budget-friendly option. The Salomon's are slightly lighter and more agile, making them better for longer hikes, while the Merrell's offer excellent value for money and are a solid all-rounder.
• Waterproof Jacket: Non-negotiable. The Arc'teryx Beta AR Jacket (around £500) is a top-of-the-line choice, offering incredible waterproofing and breathability. But if that's a bit pricey, the Rab Downpour Eco Jacket (around £100) is a fantastic alternative. The Arc'teryx is more durable and better suited for extreme conditions, but the Rab provides excellent protection at a much lower price point.
• Waterproof Trousers: Trust me, you'll thank me later. The Berghaus Deluge Waterproof Overtrousers (around £50) are a simple and effective option. They pack down small and are easy to slip on when the rain starts.
• Backpack: For carrying water, snacks, extra layers, and a first-aid kit. The Osprey Talon 22 (around £100) is a comfortable and versatile pack that's perfect for day hikes. It's got plenty of pockets and compartments to keep your gear organized.
• Navigation: A map and compass are essential, even if you're using a GPS device. Batteries can die, and signals can be lost. Learn how to use them! Alternatively, a good GPS watch like the Garmin Fenix 7 (around £600) is a great investment. It's packed with features, including GPS tracking, heart rate monitoring, and preloaded maps. The Garmin offers more advanced features and better battery life, but a traditional map and compass are still crucial backup.
• Snacks: Energy bars, nuts, dried fruit – anything to keep you going.
• Water: Plenty of it! A hydration pack is a good idea for longer hikes.

Dartmoor Ponies - Wild and Wonderful Creatures

No trip to Dartmoor is complete without seeing the famous Dartmoor ponies. These hardy little creatures roam freely across the moor, and they're a real symbol of the park. They're semi-feral, which means they're mostly wild but are owned by local farmers. They play an important role in grazing the land and helping to maintain the landscape. Please remember to admire them from a distance and never feed them. Human food can be harmful to them.

Respecting Dartmoor National Park - Leave No Trace

Finally, a quick word about respecting the park. Dartmoor is a fragile environment, and it's important that we all do our part to protect it. Follow the Leave No Trace principles: pack out everything you pack in, stay on marked trails, and avoid disturbing wildlife. Let's keep Dartmoor beautiful for future generations.

So, there you have it! A whirlwind tour of Dartmoor National Park. Get out there and explore! You won't be disappointed.