Haytor, Hound Tor & Trendlebere Down loop from Bovey Tracey

This route is classified as difficult and requires very good fitness. It features significant climbs, including the challenging ascent to Haytor, and varied terrain. While mostly paved, some segments may be unpaved and difficult, potentially requiring you to push your bike. It's a demanding undertaking, especially for touring cyclists carrying luggage.

You'll encounter a mix of surfaces. The route is described as having mostly paved roads, but be prepared for some unpaved sections that can be challenging for touring bikes. It includes open moorland, paths, tracks, and minor roads, with steep sections both uphill and downhill. The historical Haytor Granite Tramway, for instance, is not suitable for typical touring bikes.

You can find parking in Bovey Tracey. A convenient option is to park near Cafe 3 Sixty, a cycling-themed cafe where you can also park your bike indoors.

The route is rich in natural beauty and history. You'll pass iconic granite tors like Haytor Vale Climb and View of Hound Tor. Other notable features include the Haytor Granite Quarries, the Haytor Granite Tramway, and the Hound Tor Deserted Medieval Village. You might also spot wild Dartmoor ponies and, in late spring, bluebells between Hound Tor and Emsworthy Mire.

Given its 'difficult' classification, significant elevation gain (around 470 meters), and varied terrain including potentially unpaved sections, this loop is generally not recommended for beginners or families with young children. It requires very good fitness and some experience with challenging cycling conditions.

The best time to cycle is typically during the warmer, drier months from late spring to early autumn. May and early June are particularly beautiful for seeing bluebells between Hound Tor and Emsworthy Mire. Always check the weather forecast for Dartmoor National Park, as conditions can change rapidly.

Yes, in Bovey Tracey, you can find Cafe 3 Sixty, which is cycling-themed and offers indoor bike parking. There are also other pubs and cafes in Bovey Tracey for refreshments before or after your ride.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several other trails, including the Dartmoor Way, Dartmoor Way (Cycle), NCN272, and the Templer Way. You'll also briefly cross parts of the Haytor Granite Tramway, though this section is not suitable for typical touring bikes.

No, there are generally no entrance fees or specific permits required for cycling on public rights of way within Dartmoor National Park. However, please respect the Dartmoor National Park cycling code, stay on designated routes, and be mindful of livestock and other users.

While dogs are generally welcome in Dartmoor National Park, this specific route is designed for touring bicycles and includes challenging terrain and roads. If you plan to bring a dog, it would be best to consider if they can comfortably keep up with a cyclist for 26 km, especially on varied surfaces and steep sections. Always keep dogs under close control, preferably on a lead, especially around livestock and ground-nesting birds.