The best mountain hikes in Devon

Devon offers diverse and rugged landscapes, primarily within Dartmoor and Exmoor National Parks. You'll find opportunities for hill and moorland navigation, scrambling, and rock climbing on distinctive granite tors like those found on Dartmoor. The dramatic coastline also provides challenging paths and sea cliff climbing experiences.

While many routes offer a challenge, some sections are suitable for families. For instance, the area around Haytor Rocks on Dartmoor provides accessible paths with impressive views of the tors, which can be a great introduction to the landscape for families. Always check the specific route details for difficulty and duration to ensure it matches your family's capabilities.

Many trails in Devon, especially within Dartmoor and Exmoor National Parks, are dog-friendly. However, it's crucial to keep dogs on a lead, particularly during lambing season (March to July) and near livestock, as well as to protect ground-nesting birds. Always check local signage and specific route guidelines before heading out.

Yes, many of the mountaineering routes in Devon are designed as circular paths, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Sheeps Tor – Burrator Reservoir and Dam loop from Walkhampton is a moderate circular trail through Dartmoor's rugged landscape.

The best times for mountaineering in Devon are generally spring, summer, and early autumn. During these seasons, you'll experience more favorable weather conditions, longer daylight hours, and less challenging terrain underfoot. Winter can offer a different, more challenging experience, but requires appropriate gear and awareness of rapidly changing weather.

Parking is often available at trailheads or nearby villages, especially around popular areas like Haytor Rocks or Meldon Viaduct. For public transport, services can be limited in the more remote parts of Dartmoor and Exmoor. It's advisable to research specific bus routes or consider local taxi services to reach trail starting points if you're not driving. Always plan your transport in advance.

Absolutely! Devon's mountaineering routes are rich with natural beauty. On Dartmoor, you'll encounter iconic granite tors, ancient woodlands, and rivers. Exmoor offers wild heathered moorlands and dramatic coastlines. You might also discover stunning waterfalls like Lydford Gorge or Whitelady Waterfall, which are popular highlights in the region.

Devon's diverse landscapes are home to a variety of wildlife. On Dartmoor, you might spot Dartmoor ponies, various bird species, and perhaps even deer. Exmoor is known for its red deer and wild goats, especially around areas like the Valley of Rocks. Keep an eye out for diverse birdlife and smaller mammals throughout the national parks.

Yes, many villages and towns bordering or within Dartmoor and Exmoor National Parks offer welcoming pubs and cafes. These can be excellent spots to refuel after a day on the trails. Popular areas like Haytor Vale or villages near Burrator Reservoir often have options for refreshments and meals.

The mountaineering routes in Devon range from moderate to difficult. You'll find challenging ascents to high points like Yes Tor and High Willhays, which are the highest in southern England, requiring good fitness and navigation skills. Other routes, while still demanding, offer a more moderate challenge, focusing on varied terrain and scenic loops.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the dramatic and varied landscapes, the challenge of navigating the tors and moorlands, and the sense of wilderness found within Dartmoor and Exmoor National Parks.

Generally, no specific permits are required for recreational mountaineering or hiking on public rights of way within Dartmoor and Exmoor National Parks. However, if you plan to engage in specific activities like rock climbing in certain areas, or if you are part of a large organized group, it's always wise to check with the respective National Park Authority for any specific regulations or permissions that might apply.